Removing cabin top sheathing

[Sniper]

I need to remove the old GRP sheathing from the plywood cabin top of my boat. I'm guessing that its polyester resin as the boat is over 40 years old.

Is there a consensus on the best way to do this? Some of it will peel off quite readily as it has poor adhesion but there is a considerable amount which has the propensity of stuff to a blanket.

TIA

 

[VicS]

I need to remove the old GRP sheathing from the plywood cabin top of my boat. I'm guessing that its polyester resin as the boat is over 40 years old.

Is there a consensus on the best way to do this? Some of it will peel off quite readily as it has poor adhesion but there is a considerable amount which has the propensity of stuff to a blanket.
TIA

If it's glass then as you say polyester resin in those days.

There were other sheathing systems however. Eg Cascover which was resorcinol glue and Nylon scrim

If its polyester resin a bit of heat, from a hot air gun, will soften it but polyester does not usually stick awfully well to wood .. nothing like as well as epoxy for example.

 

[Sniper]

Thanks Vic. A heat gun was the way I was thinking as well. Pretty sure it's polyester as the section I have cut through has the distinctive aroma.

 

[rob2]

yes, a heat gun will be the most effective so it's rather like scraping flaking paint. Use a flat scraper to get under it to take advantage of the sections that are not adhering before the heat makes them stick.

Rob.

 

[LittleShip]

Just a hint........... wear some good strong gloves when removing the Fiberglass, it can be quite painful if you get the splinters under the skin

Tom

 

[Sniper]

Thanks to all fo the replies