Newbie99
New member
Have been researching for a first yacht purchase and realise that osmosis isn't likely to be a problem from an ownership point of view, but is likely to be a resale problem.
My partner and I are looking at a very nice example of a Westerly Berwick from 1982. Generally very tidy and had significant issues from a survey in 2019 dealt with (out of date rigging). Price looks OK based on other Berwick's for sale and sold recently.
However, the 2019 survey said ...
Sample spots of underwater hull coatings were scraped back to reveal a green epoxy type primer coating – however the coating is of inadequate film thickness to provide an effective and barrier against moisture absorption.
1.2 There are large fluid filled blisters with softened gel coat across the underwater hull. The blistering and moisture entrapment is between the gel coat and the laminate. An established and fully developed blistering (osmotic) condition exists.
Underwater Hull Moisture Readings.
Moisture readings were taken using a Sovereign Moisture meter. Topside reference readings were recorded as 5 /25.
Average Underwater Moisture Readings. 21- 25 /25.
The moisture readings are significantly elevated and consistent with an established blistering condition.
Current owner had the anti fouling done in 2019.
I'd be very grateful for opinions on how much of a problem this is?
I've read that this level of osmosis might half the value of the boat? Then again, the current owner has the boat insured, presumably for market value.
Many thanks indeed.
My partner and I are looking at a very nice example of a Westerly Berwick from 1982. Generally very tidy and had significant issues from a survey in 2019 dealt with (out of date rigging). Price looks OK based on other Berwick's for sale and sold recently.
However, the 2019 survey said ...
Sample spots of underwater hull coatings were scraped back to reveal a green epoxy type primer coating – however the coating is of inadequate film thickness to provide an effective and barrier against moisture absorption.
1.2 There are large fluid filled blisters with softened gel coat across the underwater hull. The blistering and moisture entrapment is between the gel coat and the laminate. An established and fully developed blistering (osmotic) condition exists.
Underwater Hull Moisture Readings.
Moisture readings were taken using a Sovereign Moisture meter. Topside reference readings were recorded as 5 /25.
Average Underwater Moisture Readings. 21- 25 /25.
The moisture readings are significantly elevated and consistent with an established blistering condition.
Current owner had the anti fouling done in 2019.
I'd be very grateful for opinions on how much of a problem this is?
I've read that this level of osmosis might half the value of the boat? Then again, the current owner has the boat insured, presumably for market value.
Many thanks indeed.