Deck core repair - Do I have everything I need?

[minaret]

Originally Posted by boatpoker

I have three close friends who do FRP repair and I also spend a lot of time in the biggest repair shop in Ontario. A good portion of their winter income is derived from rebuilding saturated foam core rudders. Foam is however an acceptable choice for deck/trunk work if (always if) well bonded (I prefer Corecell).

Balsa is an excellent material if installed properly it will last for decades. Wet balsa is universally the fault of sloppy builders.
Don't use plywood .... just ask anyone with a Taiwan Tub.

The foam in rudders is invariably pour foam, a totally different animal than closed cell PVC or polyurethane core material.


I've seen plenty of rotten balsa core result from hairline fractures which were almost invisible and ignored for too long. Not the builders fault.


Couldn't agree more about ply. I usually replace balsa core with foam, and ply core with Coosa. Similar properties, but non organic and proof against rot and saturation.