Plastic teak removal

[Fenders]

I am considering buying a boat that has had plastic teak fitted to the decks and coachroof. It had been fitted badly and before I consider making an offer I would like to know if it is easy to remove without damaging the white grp decks.
I don't know what sort of adhesive had been used nor what brand the faux teak is.
The boat is an early Bavaria that is otherwise in very good condition. Standard white grp with the usual dimple effect for grip.
I think that the plastic teak will pull off ok but is there a method in removing the adhesive that is stuck to the grp.

Fenders

 

[pvb]

Fake teak is often stuck down with Sikaflex. I don't think it would be an easy job to get that cleanly out of the non-slip pattern.

 

[Tranona]

Agree. If a deck is stuck on then it is logical that it should not come off easily. A polyurethane adhesive will have been used and will have to be removed mechanically. Chances of doing this and still having the original moulded surface in usable condition are slim. Be prepared to re-finish the mess that is left with epoxy fairing and then coat with something like Kiwigrip or paint with conventional deck paint.

 

[Yngmar]

There are some (cured) PU sealant removers, or claims thereof. I have no idea if they work, and am dubious about the claims, but very interested if so, as when my (real) teak deck eventually wears through, I'd like to go down to the GRP squares too, if possible.

This stamp may also be useful to you:

 

[Fenders]

Thanks for your replies. Just confirmed my thoughts regarding adhesive removal.

 

[SvenH]

The multi machines that were pioneered by " fein", called multimaster include a scraper.
I think that if you can get underneath the faketeak, this powered scraper will get you ahead.

But it still is going to be a hell of a job, and you will need to do something with what appears from underneath.

 

[Halo]

Why not budget to re cover with more fake teak. This will avoid the need for perfection in removing the last traces of the old stuff and may make the option viable. Having said there are plenty more boats on the sea which you could consider.

 

[SvenH]

Because it makes for a poorly maintained boat.

 

[BruceDanforth]

I have removed sikaflex with this stuff:

http://www.marinechandlery.com/debond-marine-formula

It is quite pricy but turns it into mush. Be warned that it really spreads out so you will need to make sure it doesn't eat stuff that you don't want it to eat or else be prepared to rebed them. I've used it to remove deck hardware, windows, deglaze my windows for rebuilding and remove the skeg from the bottom of my boat.

I am considering buying a boat that has had plastic teak fitted to the decks and coachroof. It had been fitted badly and before I consider making an offer I would like to know if it is easy to remove without damaging the white grp decks.
I don't know what sort of adhesive had been used nor what brand the faux teak is.
The boat is an early Bavaria that is otherwise in very good condition. Standard white grp with the usual dimple effect for grip.
I think that the plastic teak will pull off ok but is there a method in removing the adhesive that is stuck to the grp.

Fenders