Amanda Knapp
When it comes to boat floors, the weight of fiberglass is an important consideration. Fiberglass cloth is a woven fabric that comes in various weave styles, including plain, satin, and harness satin. The weight of fiberglass cloth is typically measured in ounces, with options ranging from 4 to 10 ounces per square yard. For boat floors, it is recommended to use a layer of fiberglass cloth on both sides of the plywood core to add strength and prevent cracking. Some sources suggest that 8 ounces of fiberglass cloth is sufficient, while others recommend using two layers of 4 ounces or even 16 ounces for added durability. It's important to consider the cost and ease of application when deciding on the weight of fiberglass, as thicker options may be more difficult to work with and can increase the overall weight of the boat.
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What You'll Learn
Using fibreglass cloth for a strong, lightweight boat floor
Fibreglass cloth is a woven fabric made from glass filament strands with different chemical compositions. The strands are woven together in different patterns and are then applied to a surface and covered with resin. The resin hardens to create a strong surface. Fibreglass is a very lightweight and robust material made from inorganic material, which cannot be damaged by UV rays, fungus, or bacteria in the water. It can also withstand temperatures of 3000 degrees F, making it a perfect material for boat construction.
When using fibreglass cloth for a boat floor, it is important to consider the weight and thickness of the cloth. The cloth is sold according to its weight per square yard, which can range from 2 oz. to 40 oz. The weight of the cloth will determine its optimal use. For a boat floor, a thicker cloth is generally recommended to provide more protection against the elements.
The type of resin used in conjunction with the fibreglass cloth is also an important consideration. Polyester or epoxy resin can be used, with epoxy being the more durable option. However, it is more expensive. When using epoxy resin, it is important to apply it to both sides of the plywood to ensure that it does not crack or peel off.
When creating a fibreglass boat floor, it is recommended to use multiple layers of cloth. The number of layers will depend on the specific application and the desired strength. Typically, 4 oz. cloth is used for the decks of small boats, while 6 to 10 oz. cloth is used for larger areas such as the hull.
In addition to fibreglass cloth, there is also a product called Chopmat, which can be used in conjunction with fibreglass cloth in boat construction. Chopmat acts as a filler and helps to hold the cloth in place by increasing the surface contact. It is compatible with polyester and vinyl ester resin but not with epoxy resin.
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Chopped strand mat for ease of use with curves and corners
When deciding on the type of fiberglass to use for a boat floor, one must consider factors such as the desired thickness, strength, and the presence of tight corners. Chopped Strand Mat (CSM), also known as fiberglass mat, is a non-woven fabric made of short strands of fibers held together with a resin binder. It is a popular choice for boat builders due to its ease of use, especially when working with curves and corners.
Chopped Strand Mat offers several advantages over other types of fiberglass cloth. Firstly, it is easy to conform to tight curves and corners because of the random orientation of its fibers. This makes it ideal for boat floors, which often have curved surfaces and tight spaces. Secondly, CSM is compatible with polyester and vinyl ester resin, which are commonly used in boat building. The resin dissolves the binder in the mat, allowing the fibers to be moved around and shaped as needed.
Another benefit of using CSM is its affordability. It is typically cheaper than fiberglass cloth, making it a cost-effective option for larger projects. Additionally, CSM is available in various weights, including 0.9 oz, 0.75 oz, and 1.5 oz, allowing boat builders to choose the right weight for their specific needs. For example, a lighter weight CSM can be used for repair work, while a heavier weight can be used for laminate build-up.
When using CSM for a boat floor, it is essential to consider the type of resin to be used. CSM is not compatible with epoxy resin systems because the binder holding the fibers together requires styrene to dissolve properly. Instead, polyester resin systems should be used to wet out CSM. Polyester resins break down the styrene binder, allowing the fibers to become completely saturated and creating a strong, durable surface.
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Epoxy resin for longer-lasting results
When it comes to boat floors, using epoxy resin can yield longer-lasting results compared to other resins. Epoxy resin is a thermosetting polymer that, when combined with a hardener, cures into a hard plastic solid. This process produces heat, which aids the curing of the material. Epoxy resin is favoured for boat building due to its superb tensile, flexural and compressive strength, impact resistance, chemical resistance, abrasion resistance, corrosion resistance, and high-strength bonding to various substrates. It is also ideal for laminating and wetting out fiberglass fabric.
Epoxy resin is more expensive than polyester resin, but it is a more durable and effective solution for boat floors. Polyester resin is more water-permeable and less resistant to cracking and peeling. Polyester resin is also more susceptible to shrinkage during curing, which can lead to cracks and compromise the waterproofing of the boat. Additionally, polyester resin produces more flammable fumes with a stronger odour.
Epoxy resin, on the other hand, provides a superior waterproof finish and is resistant to degradation from UV radiation. Hindered amine light stabilizers (HALS) can be added to epoxy resin to reflect UV light and slow down degradation, reducing yellowing over time. This makes epoxy resin ideal for boats that are exposed to sunlight and heat.
When working with epoxy resin, it is important to follow the correct mixing and application procedures. The two-cup mixing method is recommended to ensure thorough mixing. This involves slowly stirring the resin and hardener together in a clean plastic cup, scraping the sides and bottom edges, and then transferring the mixture to a second cup for further stirring. It is also crucial to use the correct amount of hardener specified in the instructions, as adding too much can result in an improper cure.
Epoxy resin can be used with a variety of materials, including fiberglass, wood, metal, and plastics. When working with wood, it is essential to seal the pores and grain with a thin coat of epoxy to prevent air bubbles from forming. For fiberglass, epoxy resin can be used with or without reinforcing glass, depending on the specific application and requirements.
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Polyester resin for a cheaper alternative
If you're looking for a cheaper alternative to epoxy resin for your boat floor, polyester resin is a widely used option. The majority of boats in production are constructed using polyester resin due to its cost-effectiveness. Polyester resin is also compatible with gelcoat, which is commonly used to finish production boats.
While polyester resin offers a cost advantage, it's important to consider its limitations. One of the main drawbacks is its water permeability, making it less suitable for boats that remain in the water for extended periods. However, this issue can be mitigated by applying an epoxy barrier coat to the bottom of the boat. Additionally, polyester resin is known to be harder than epoxy surfaces, but this hardness comes with a trade-off—it is more brittle and prone to cracking.
When working with polyester resin, it's crucial to be mindful of the time constraints. Unlike epoxy, which offers a wide range of hardeners with varying curing times, polyester resin has a set amount of time before it gels, requiring you to complete the work within that timeframe. This can be a significant challenge, especially when working on large boat-building projects.
Another factor to consider is the odour of polyester resin. It has a strong smell, which can be unpleasant to work with. However, if your boat is frequently taken out of the water, such as a canoe or a trailer-based runabout, this may not be a significant concern. In terms of application, polyester resin is generally easier to work with than epoxy. It's also compatible with glass reinforcement, which can enhance the strength and durability of your boat floor.
Overall, while polyester resin offers a cost-effective alternative to epoxy, it's important to carefully consider its advantages and disadvantages before making a decision. For a boat floor that is less expensive and easier to work with, polyester resin is a viable option. However, for a boat that will be in the water permanently, the higher cost of epoxy may be justified to address the water permeability issue of polyester resin.
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Using plywood as the floor
When it comes to using plywood as the floor of a boat, there are several considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it is essential to choose the right type of plywood that can withstand the marine environment. While marine-grade plywood is specifically designed for this purpose, it can be quite expensive. As a more affordable option, some boat owners opt for exterior-grade plywood or even regular plywood. However, it is important to note that these alternatives may not offer the same level of durability and water resistance as marine-grade plywood.
Exterior-grade plywood, often found at home improvement stores, is typically treated for ground contact and comes in various rating levels. One common type is made up of five plies of southern yellow pine glued together with waterproof adhesive. While it can be used for boat repair, it is best suited for areas where overall wood strength is not critical, such as motor mounts. Pressure-treated plywood is another option, but it tends to have high moisture content, which can affect its strength.
Regular plywood, whether treated or untreated, has also been used successfully by some boat owners. However, it is crucial to properly seal or paint the plywood to prevent water intrusion, which can lead to rot and corrosion. Applying epoxy resin or fibreglass matting over the plywood can also provide additional protection and strengthen the floor. Some people even choose to coat the plywood with epoxy and then cover it with outdoor carpeting or another type of flooring.
When using plywood as the floor of a boat, it is important to consider the thickness of the plywood and whether it needs to be reinforced with fibreglass. For example, if using thinner plywood, more layers of fibreglass cloth or mat may be required to reinforce it adequately. Additionally, the type of resin used, such as epoxy or polyester resin, can impact the durability and water resistance of the floor.
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Frequently asked questions
The weight of fiberglass you should use depends on the type of boat you are building and the desired thickness. For a strong and lightweight boat floor, consider using fiberglass cloth. The standard weights for this cloth are 4, 6, and 10 ounces.
Fiberglass cloth is a woven fabric that provides strength and lightweight properties to your boat floor. It is also easier to conform to curved surfaces compared to other materials.
Yes, an alternative to fiberglass cloth is chopped strand mat (also known as fiberglass mat). This material is ideal if you are working with tight curves and corners. However, it is only compatible with polyester and vinyl ester resin.
The weight of fiberglass mat you should use depends on your budget and the desired thickness. Standard weights include 8 oz, 4 oz, and 1 oz. Using two layers of 8 oz mat or one layer of 4 oz mat on each side of the boat floor should be sufficient.
