question about replacing wood core

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dvaid2526

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Jun 21, 2011
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I cut the top skin off of my front deck today to fix a rotten core. I was surprised to find the original core was made of pieces of plywood about 4" x 6" Would it be better to replace this with a solid piece of plywood? or is there a reason it was built up with a bunch of little blocks?

b.t.w. the area is about 5' x 4'

thanks in advance,
Dave
 
B

BWT

Petty Officer 1st Class
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Apr 30, 2011
Messages
363
Re: question about replacing wood core

How much of an arch (or camber) is there to the deck; side to side? If there's a fair amount, I would guess that's why they used the smaller pieces (so it would conform easier). IMO solid is always better, but if there's quite a bit of camber to deal with, would be best to use solid sheets, but thinner and look at laminating 3+ layers to end up with the proper thickness.
 
D

dvaid2526

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Jun 21, 2011
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Re: question about replacing wood core

I think the deck was flat, it is currently sagging a little but i figured this was from the damage.
 
B

BWT

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Apr 30, 2011
Messages
363
Re: question about replacing wood core

I would use solid sheets and proceed as I outlined above. Make sure to use marine grade ply otherwise there will be quite a bit of time spent in the fairing process. Use epoxy for the laminations and poly for laying the glass on top (1.5oz csm; probably 2-3 layers.). Were you planning to re-use the old skin (non-skid)?
 
D

dvaid2526

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Jun 21, 2011
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Re: question about replacing wood core

yes I am going to try to reuse the old skin but need to patch a 8"x12" hole someone had cut through the deck. (which is why the core rotted I think)
 
rickryder

rickryder

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Jun 24, 2010
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Re: question about replacing wood core

What kind of boat are you working on? Some pics would help alot!
 
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