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Buying a boat is a thrilling prospect, but it can also be a daunting one. It's important to survey a boat before purchase to avoid any nasty surprises. A professional survey can be expensive, but it is critical to ensure you know what you're buying. There are many things to consider when surveying a fiberglass boat, and it's important to be aware of the potential problems that can arise. From blisters and cracks to corrosion and water damage, there are many issues that can affect the integrity of a fiberglass boat. It's also important to know what to look for when hiring a surveyor and how to manage the survey process.
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What You'll Learn
How to prepare a fibreglass boat for a survey
Preparing your fibreglass boat for a survey is not only respectful to the surveyor but also allows them to do their job effectively and give you a favourable result. Here are some steps to help you prepare your fibreglass boat for a survey:
Clean and Dry the Hull, Rudder, Keel and Prop
It is important to ensure that the hull, rudder, keel and prop are clean and dry before the survey. This will enable the surveyor to inspect the boat thoroughly and identify any potential issues.
Address Water Intrusion and Core Damage
Water intrusion into cored decking is a common issue in fibreglass boats. Check for signs of water intrusion, such as wet wood coring, which can cause the deck to separate and weaken its structural integrity. Also, look for signs of freeze damage and disintegration in foam-cored decks. Take the necessary steps to address any water intrusion issues and repair or replace damaged core materials.
Inspect for Blisters
Blisters are a common problem in fibreglass boats, especially when relocating the vessel between different water types (e.g., from fresh to salt water). The best time to spot blisters is just after the boat has been hauled and power washed. Blisters appear as circular bumps or dome-like protrusions along the hull. If left untreated, blisters can lead to more serious issues, so be sure to address them before the survey.
Check for Barnacles
Barnacles can accumulate on the hull bottom and propeller, affecting the boat's performance and speed. Ensure that the hull and propeller are clean and free of barnacles to get an accurate assessment of the boat's condition during the survey.
Conduct a Preliminary Inspection
Before the surveyor arrives, conduct a preliminary inspection of the boat yourself or with the help of a book or guide. This will help you identify any major issues and give you an idea of the boat's overall condition. Books like "Fiberglass Boat Survey" by Arthur Edmunds and "Surveying Fiberglass Sailboats" by Henry Mustin can provide valuable insights and help you prepare for the survey.
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What to look for in a fibreglass boat survey
When it comes to buying a fibreglass boat, it is critical to have it surveyed before purchase. A professional survey can cost several hundred dollars, but it is worth it to avoid serious, or even catastrophic, structural problems.
Firstly, it is important to understand the types of boat styles available and their primary functions. This will help you choose the right boat for your intended use. Next, you should inspect the boat for any danger signs. Look out for water intrusion into cored decking, which can cause rot and drastically reduce the structural integrity of the boat. Long-term water exposure can also cause problems with foam-cored decks, including core separation, freeze damage, and disintegration. Check for blisters, which are caused by an osmotic pull on water molecules outside the hull, drawing them through the gel coat. Some makes and models are more susceptible to blistering than others, and they are typically easier to spot just after the boat has been hauled and power washed.
Barnacles on the hull bottom and propeller, as well as a contaminated fuel tank, can cause poor boat speed. It is also important to check the rigging, as wire rigging should be replaced every eight to ten years, and the engine may not have sufficient air for proper combustion of the fuel.
Finally, when hiring a professional surveyor, it is important to know the customary fees and what to expect in terms of their report and expectations of the vessel's cleanliness.
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How to hire a fibreglass boat surveyor
When buying a fibreglass boat, hiring a competent surveyor is crucial to ensure a financially secure investment. A boat surveyor is an individual certified by the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS) who is hired to perform inspections on vessels. They generally have a strong boating and/or mechanical background and utilise special tools like moisture meters to examine more than just the basic mechanics of the vessel.
To hire a fibreglass boat surveyor, it is recommended to start by visiting the SAMS website or The American Boat and Yacht Council website and entering your zip code to find a list of certified surveyors in your area. It is important to ask the surveyor relevant questions, such as whether they have surveyed similar makes and models to your chosen vessel. Additionally, keep in mind that surveyors may offer different services and charges, so it is good to clarify these details beforehand.
While it is not mandatory to be present during the survey, it is beneficial to be there as you can learn more about the boat and address any issues directly with the surveyor. The process typically includes an out-of-water inspection, a sea trial, and a system test. During the out-of-water inspection, the surveyor will moisture meter the hull, identify structural issues, and note any problems. The sea trial involves testing the boat's performance, including RPM, WOT, and cruise speeds, which are measured against manufacturer standards to identify potential engine issues.
After the sea trial, the surveyor will spend time on the vessel to test all remaining systems, generators, lights, pumps, and moisture meters on the deck. Within a few days, you will receive a comprehensive survey report detailing their findings. This report is crucial for your decision-making process and can also be shared with your bank or lending company, as they may require a certified survey before releasing funds.
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How to avoid common issues with fibreglass boat surveys
When it comes to fibreglass boats, there are several common issues that can arise, and it is important to know how to address them to avoid costly repairs or, worse, a catastrophe. Here are some instructive guidelines on how to avoid common issues with fibreglass boat surveys:
Firstly, one of the most prevalent problems with fibreglass boats is blistering. Blisters are small, horizontal bumps and cracks on the surface that allow water to enter and grow as droplets expand and contract. They can be caused by collisions, improper loading of heavy items, or even marine flora piercing the top coating. It is imperative to address blisters immediately, regardless of their size, as they can lead to more severe issues if left unattended. The repair process involves removing the gel top coat and fibreglass underlayer, filling the blister with resin, and applying a new gel coat.
Secondly, delamination is another concern, particularly in fibreglass boats with a wooden layer between the inner and outer layers. Delamination occurs when the wood breaks down or pulls away from the fibreglass, allowing water to pool in the hull's bilge. Over time, this trapped water can cause the wooden layer to deteriorate and the fibreglass to separate, compromising the structural integrity of the boat. To repair delamination, the fibreglass surface must be removed to access and replace the affected wood, a complex process that requires a qualified technician.
Additionally, the area between the waterline and the railing of a fibreglass boat is susceptible to wear and tear due to constant exposure to waves, sun, and seaspray. To prevent fading, oxidation, and haze in this area, it is essential to regularly wax and buffer the boat's exterior. Furthermore, while fibreglass boats are known for their durability and longevity, they are not immune to the effects of fatigue. Regular maintenance is crucial to minimising the impact of stressors such as wave impact and engine vibrations. This includes maintaining the stringers, the joists under the boat deck that provide support but are vulnerable to wear and tear.
Lastly, when preparing for a survey, it is essential to ensure the boat is properly cleaned and dried, including the hull, rudder, keel, and prop. A pre-purchase survey can help identify any potential issues and provide leverage for price negotiations if repairs are needed. It is recommended to work with an accredited marine surveyor and provide them with access to conduct a thorough inspection. By following these guidelines and staying vigilant about maintenance, you can help ensure the safety and longevity of your fibreglass boat.
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How to inspect a fibreglass boat like a professional surveyor
Inspecting a fibreglass boat can be a daunting task, but with a systematic approach, one can identify potential problems and make a well-informed decision. Here are some steps to inspect a fibreglass boat like a professional surveyor:
Prepare the Boat for Inspection:
Start by ensuring the boat is clean and dry, including the hull, rudder, keel, and prop. This will make it easier to identify any issues and show respect for the surveyor's time.
Conduct a Thorough Visual Inspection:
Begin with a comprehensive visual examination of the hull, looking for any obvious signs of damage, such as cracks, chips, discolouration, or blisters. Pay close attention to the gelcoat, as any imperfections could indicate underlying issues. Check for repairs or patches and ensure they have been properly executed.
Perform the Tap Test:
Use a small, hard object, such as a coin or a plastic hammer, to gently tap along the hull. A consistent, solid sound indicates a robust hull, while a dull or hollow sound may suggest soft spots or delamination.
Check for Moisture:
Invest in a moisture meter to detect any excess moisture within the fibreglass laminate. High moisture readings could indicate water intrusion or osmotic blistering, compromising the hull's structural integrity.
Inspect Less Visible Areas:
Don't neglect the areas that are harder to see. Use a flashlight and a mirror to inspect behind liners, under floorboards, and in lockers for any signs of water intrusion or structural issues.
Understand the Causes of Issues:
Recognise the potential causes of problems in fibreglass boats. For instance, blisters form when water-soluble chemicals inside the laminate draw water molecules through the gelcoat, and they can be more common when relocating a vessel from cool to tropical waters or from fresh to salt water.
By following these steps and staying thorough and patient, you can inspect a fibreglass boat with a keen eye, just like a professional surveyor. If you encounter any significant issues or complexities, don't hesitate to seek advice from a marine expert.
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Frequently asked questions
You should look out for blisters, which are caused by water-soluble chemicals inside the laminate exerting an osmotic pull on water molecules outside the hull, drawing them through the gel coat. Blisters typically appear as circular bumps or dome-like protrusions while sighting along the hull. You should also check for cored decking, which can cause water intrusion and lead to rotting and loss of structural integrity.
Make sure the hull, rudder, keel and prop are clean and dry.
The best time to spot blisters is just after the boat has been hauled and power washed and is still wet. Blisters can depressurise in a matter of hours, making them hard to spot.
