Posted: Tue May 27, 2014 7:47am

I need to replace the engine and weed hatch covers on my cruiser stern narrow boat. The existing covers seem to be a form of plywood with a composite �plastic� surface. The plywood is delaminating due to water penetration. What is the best material to use for a replacement and where can I buy it? Len Palfrey nb Hobbyhorse

Posted: Tue May 27, 2014 8:12am

You could use marine ply but un less you buy it from a quality supplier it is unlikley to last well. Robbins of Bristol sell really good marine ply but the cost is astounding. I suspect the stuff that you have is the most cost effective. It comes in several names but Hexagrip/Hexaboard or Rhinoboard are fairly common. If you can locate a local commercial vehicle body builder/supplier they may well be able to sell you suitable offcuts. I found that as commercial suppliers of these boards demand a minimum order, delivery charges and only in 8'x4' sheets it was cheaper to give my marina a cutting list. I suspect that you will need to find oen that does fitouts & repairs. I used Calcutt Boats. When you have the board it is important to seal the edges. There is a product called Endsel (Screwfix) but I used epoxy resin. Tony Brooks

Posted: Sun Jun 01, 2014 3:17pm

Hi Tony, thanks for the advice, I have not been able to obtain hexagrip but I have found something similar that I am trying which is WISA board. The WISA board website has a facility for finding local stockists. Regards Len Palfrey