How do you fix hull delamination?

Several technical publications recommend an “easy” fiberglass delamination repair which involves drilling a series of holes through the top skin of the deck and forcing epoxy resin into the holes until it fills the void and emerges from another hole.

Why does fiberglass delaminate?

Some fiberglass boats have a wooden layer in between the outer and inner construction of the fiberglass. Delamination occurs when the middle wood breaks down or pulls away from the surrounding fiberglass substrate. Delamination usually occurs due to water pooling in the hull’s bilge for a prolonged period.

What is delamination of fiberglass?

Delamination is when the fiberglass or gelcoat outer layer of an RV starts to pull away from the substrate, usually luan or a light weight plywood. Delamination begins as small cracks and then starts to spread outward. These cracks can start as stress cracks, but are mostly accelerated by water intrusion.

Why is delamination a problem on a fibreglass boat?

Delamination is a common deck and hull construction problem which tends to get worse if left unattended. Eventually, it can reach a point where the overall structural integrity of the hull and deck may be compromised so it’s really important to know how to perform a high quality with this fibreglass boat repair.

What does delamination mean in good old boat magazine?

Article taken from Good Old Boat magazine: Volume 1, Number 3, November/December 1998. The word “delamination” causes instant visions of a good old boat coming apart at the seams. in the mud of a river bank. Bad jokes have been published of a prospective buyer falling through a deck or into the bilge. These visions and

How big of a hole do you drill for delamination?

If, when you put pressure on the skin, you can feel softness before reaching the core, this indicates the area has gaps between the skin and the core which need to be repaired. Thorough drying of the core must be accomplished before re-bonding. Drill 6mm holes, 25mm apart and about 75mm beyond the delamination area.

How to get rid of delamination in the skin?

Trim the syringe tip as necessary. Inject the thickened mix into all holes drilled in the delaminated area. Work the epoxy into all areas between the skin and core. Add pressure to the skin to force it into contact with the core until the epoxy cures.