Wet in the Aft

[Hogan]

I have been using a 1.5 inch thick foam pad in the aft sleeping area since I am waiting on a new pad to be made. The pad has been completely dry when I placed it there prior to sleeping. Three times lately, I have noticed moisture in the foam after sleeping on it overnight. I just put my sleeping bag on top of the pad. Could this moisture be coming from condensation? I have noticed the floor of the area is really cold before I put the pad down. Anyone have suggestions or solutions?Thanks

 

[George]

Wet pad H260

If you've checked the bilge and other locations and they are dry, I think you've hit on the cause. If the ambient air in the cabin is warm & humid and the deck is cold, it's possible condensation could occur. Also look behind the aft wall with a flashlight and look for condensation - I've seen this on my boat.I'd try a moisture barrier under the pad such as 4mil plastic obtained from any hardware store paint section.Since I've never heard of this before let us know how this works out.

 

[Benny]

Its probably condensation,

the same thing happens to backpackers sleeping in tents. It comes from the humidity in the air plus the humidity you exhale which combined exceed the air's ability to carry it. Tent manufacturers address the issue by creating ventilation. You can do the same with a fan and a porthole or hatch cracked open.