Spongy Decks

[Paul Bradbury]

Recently purchased a 1996 36s7. Have noticed a couple of areas on the deck between the bulkhead where the deck is flexing. No moisture was detected and would like to know if injecting an expanding foam will help to add strength to these areas. There is no delamination and we are trying to find a method to fix. My repair person thought that this might do the trick.Comments?RegardsPaul

 

[Trevor]

Deck flex

Hi Paul -It is not common, but I have seen cases where voids exist above bulkheads and the overhead deck on sailboats. When weight is placed on the deck in these areas, a squeak is sometimes heard and a deck flex can be noticeable. You indicated, however, that there are areas where your deck feels "spongy". Spongy usually indicates there is moisture present, in which case you'll need to open the area up and make sure it's dry before filling. If you think the void is dry, injecting foam, caulk, or maybe even epoxy into the area might just do the trick. Let us know how you make out.Best,Trevor

 

[Richard Bennett]

Deck flex

Balsa wood is used as a core material between the surface laminate and the backing laminate.if water has penetrated into the balsa the deck will loose its strength.find out where the water is getting in and reseal with polyurethane sealant/adhesive.I expect its then best to remove internal lining, cut off backing laminate, remove damp balsa, replace balsa core bonding it to the upper surface then laminating over the underside and refit lining.its a awfull messy job !