Hatch and washboard wood

Sixpence

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Having spent too long out in the elements, Sixpence is in need of replacements for these, that'll teach me to use ordinary plywood
Suggestions, please, for suitable materials for the job
 

DownWest

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I am something of a fan of maranti for the 'hardwood' bits. Last lot of ply came from marineplyonline and is quite good. The laminate size is a bit uneven, with the middle and outer ones much thinner than the other two, but no voids and a dozen cycles in the dishwasher did not effect it. Current build was originally designed for 1/4" but most build in 3/8", so not much worried about the difference in thickness of the plys. Outside will get epoxy and glass cloth (good idea for hatches too) Local yard has maranti planks at reasonable prices (far lower than Rob***s)

Also, bloke down the road is selling waste from a local window factory as firewood. Lots of nice hardwood, if one looks carefully. And he is sympathetic.
 

Tranona

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Marine ply is the material of choice. Just needs to be good quality, protected at the edges and coated. Porous woodstain is longer lasting and more easily touched up than conventional varnish. Alternative is plastic such as polycarbonate or acrylic.
 

Searush

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Marine ply and as many coats of varnish as you can get on, thinning the first & sanding between all. If you can arrange a cover to keep the rain & sun off it & allow some ventilation it will last many many years longer with minimal attention, but the cover will need renewing. Since I installed a full cockpit tent my washboards have stayed like new for several years.
 
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