Refinishing fiberglass deck

[Arronh]

Hello. I have an old fiberglass boat 78 mark Twain. I’m looking to tear up the carpet and refinish the deck to prevent any water getting in. Any recommendations on what to reseal it with? And any recommendations on the best way to anchor a pedestal base to the deck? I’m sure there are already threads regarding this. If so, please help me find one. Thanks!

 

[Chris1956]

The original deck was probably covered in polyester resin and fiberglass cloth. If the cloth is still good, another coating (or two) of polyester resin is in order. Sand the original with medium sandpaper before applying the new resin.

Installing a pedestal base usually requires a backing plate of some kind. There are some threads in boat repair. The search function can assist.

 

[gm280]

Before even thinking of merely resealing the actual deck, verify the deck wood AND stringers are in perfect condition first. Otherwise resealing rot is not going to get it. I'd be extremely surprised if a boat that age doesn't have tons of rotted issue all over the place. JMHO

 

[Arronh]

I’ve drilled test holes all over the place. The transom is in good condition. The deck has a 1.5’x1.5’ bad section in the back corner. Everywhere else on the deck is good. I’ve been monitoring it for over a year and the rot hasn’t spread. How is this for an idea? Cut away the rotten deck and enough good deck to expose the good portion of stringers. Then sister some marine plywood to stringers. Then reapply decking and seal with polyester resin. I’m trying to avoid digging out the stringers. And I store it inside, so I’m not concerned with sealing the stringers watertight.

I’m trying to get two more summers out of this boat(unless it lasts longer).