Water trap for transducer access

Most of the repair jobs found on fibreglass boats are cosmetic. Cracking and crazing of the gelcoat, and scrapes and dings, account for much of the repair work being done in boat shops. Permanent repairs to these types of damage can be made with epoxy products. When properly applied, an epoxy repair affords an extremely durable, water-resistant repair that offers an excellent base for various finishes. Fixing damaged or delaminated stringers is one of the most common repairs associated with fibreglass boats. The usual causes of stringer failure are disintegration of the stringer core material, impact damage from slamming, grounding and fatigue from normal use.

Hardware attachment is a critical and often overlooked element in a boat’s structure. Over time, high-loads and fatigue can cause hardware fasteners to loosen, not only reducing the load carrying ability of the hardware, but creating a source of leaks into the laminate. Leaks at hardware locations are the most common cause of skin delamination and core damage. Often, the first indication of loose hardware is an area of delaminated deck nearby.

When fittings are screwed directly to a deck or cabin top, it is usually a matter of “when” and not “if” they leak will start. These illustrations are from an article "stopping deck leaks" It explains why leaks must be stopped for more than reasons of comfort & outlines alternative methods The article also considers protection against galvanic corrosion between dissimilar metals

This is very different situation to gelcoat repairs. Once 2-pack has been damaged, the choices become very limited. See the article describing how to do easy and effective repairs yourself.

Once rot gets a toehold in wood it is difficult to cure completely -it is like a cancer. Digging out the rotted wood will still leave spores and water in the sound wood. After you fill in the cavity with something like epoxy, the rot continues to flourish underneath.  Products promoted to make rotted wood sound and stop rot penetrate only until they meet water, with which they do not mix. Under the solid repair rotting goes on. With one exception, the commercial products sold to treat dry wood to prevent rot are completely ineffective against established rot in wet wood because they are dissolved in petroleum solvents and oil and water do not mix. There are two commonly available inexpensive materials that will kill rot in wood and prevent its recurrence.

Article - Slipping

If you want to do the job yourself, there us no substitute for pre-planning and selection of a slipway operated by professionals with customer-friendly attitudes. Part of the planning involes a realistic assessment of the time needed, as well as acquiring all materials in advance, to avoid surprises when least wanted. Hints on arriving and leaving the slip are also covered

Read the full article - click the link in the left panel

Article - Keel construction

Consider it might actually be an idea of build a new one - or at least know how it is done, so you can repair yours

Read the full articles - click the link in the left panel