Water in floatation foam under the deck?

Eric W Walline

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Oct 11, 2026
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Hello, I'm considering the purchase of a Henry O, 17' center console. It has been left out in the weather and I'm concerned about the possibility that the foam under the deck might be wet. Anyone have experience with this? THank you.
 

Chris1956

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Gee, boats get wet during use all the time. The hull is designed to keep the foam dry.

To find out if the foam is wet, you can weigh the boat or inspect it. Inspection usually takes drilling a hole and checking the foam and then sealing the hole.

I would not let a perspective buyer drill holes if I was the owner.
 

tpenfield

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Hello, I'm considering the purchase of a Henry O, 17' center console. It has been left out in the weather and I'm concerned about the possibility that the foam under the deck might be wet. Anyone have experience with this? THank you.

A few things to look for . . .

cracking or discoloring of the stringers and/or bulkheads

Infrared camera

After a cool temperature night, see if the boat sweats in certain areas of the hull as the temperature warms in the morning. Areas of the hull that remain cool may be signs of retained water (in the foam).

A professional Marine Surveyor may be able to figure out if there is water retention in the hull compartments.
 
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