installing new cockpit floor epoxy and glass or Sikaflex?

[mikecontessa26]

I'm fitting my new (6" higher) cockpit floor down this weekend, it will have a access hatch so won't need to come up again. I can;t decide if I would be best bedding it with Sikaflex as this allows some movement or bonding it to the bot properly with fiberglass and epoxy. The joint will be hidden later so that doesn't matter. My concerns are that over time the Sikaflex will weaken and allow a leak and on the other hand that the fiberglass and epoxy may crack.

The floor panel will be epoxy coated ply.

Any advice/opinions much apreciated.

Thanks

 

[tinkicker0]

Depends on hull construction. On many boats the cockpit sole is a stress bearing member adding rigidity to the hull. Many powerboats are constructed like this, so glass n resin if so.

How was the original floor fitted? Top tip, copy what the makers did.

 

[Quandary]

If this is over the existing floor there should ne no structural issues and if you do it as a removable floating floor on bearers you could retain the existing drainage. Some boats like Sigma 33s had a teak grid which could be removed, these look good but are a bit pricey though it is possible to make one if you are handy. If I was considering this job I would use a removable teak grid or slats over plenty of full depth bearers. It means you can revert to standard if you ever sell the boat. Beware of sealed inaccessible cavities!

 

[Bajansailor]

Raising the cockpit floor sounds like an excellent idea, as you should then have a properly self draining cockpit (I think that Contessa 26 cockpit soles are below the static waterline).

Have you actually cut out the old floor, and bonded on a fibreglass flange (or timber strip) 6" up around the perimeter to sit the new floor on?
If yes, then I think that either Sikaflex or epoxy putty would work well for bedding down the new floor to the seating arranged for it.
In either case, you could then add a layer of glass and epoxy over the outside joint for extra strength.

 

[mikecontessa26]

ThNks everyone, yes Bajan this is to get the cockpit sole above the waterline, I've bolted and epoxied on a oroko frame for the new sole. Cheers Mike