renewing boat windows.

[fred127]

I have a Vivacity 21 and the cabin windows are framed in black rubber, these continually leave black run marks and black stains on hands or anything that contacts them; this is only on the outside where its weathered. I want to change the windows using aluminium frames but I'm finding it difficult to find a supplier. Does anyone have any idea where I can find a supplier, preferably in Cornwall or Devon?

 

[nordic_ranger]

Firstly hello and welcome to the forum. You will get lots of advise on here some useful and some not so useful.
You will have difficulty finding aluminium frames so why not keep the ones you have and change the rubber seals. Seals can be got from these people http://www.sealsdirect.co.uk/ they sell window seals in every shape and form.

 

[Georgio]

I have just used South East Marine Windows who made up some new Alu frames and re-used the old glass (I sent them the old windows). Very good service and not too expensive. They are based in Essex 01621 782664.

I have no involvement with them other than being a satisfied customer.

 

[aitchw]

Alternatively you could attach new glazing direct to the outside of the frames using self adhesive neoprene seals from the same source. Ali frames are v. expensive and by the time you have had new Polycarbonate or whatever cut as well you are looking at a biggish bill. New rubber seals to replace the existing is likely to cost well over £100 anyway.

Most of us sailing older boats like yours aren't typically that well off and this could prove an expensive excercise.

 

[Georgio]

Actually, new Alu frames are not as expensive as you may think, Pair of new frames made to match the old ones fitted with origional glass only cost £150. I think that's very good!

Previous boat had polycarb/purspex windows that were attached with screws as you described and they were about £120ish if I recall correctly.

 

[aitchw]

I take your point and accept that is a very reasonable price.

Much will depend whether or not the glazing needs to be replaced as well. For me anything that gets into the 100s is daunting financially. /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif

 

[dickh]

Definitely get new rubbers as suggested from Seals Direct - also a new insert AND the insertion tool! Make sure you get sufficient rubber, cut it longer than you think you need and adjust it as you finish. You should be able to get instructions from the supplier. Alternatively fit a length of perspex covering both windows and screw to the grp, with mast AND a small stainless washer between the perspex and the hull at each screw hole - this makes sure there is always some mastic between otherwise it gets all squeezed out. Use dark perspex and you won't see the mastic.

 

[aidancoughlan]

Eagle Boat windows usually have a stand at Southampton boat show, and seem to specialise in refurbishing aluminium boat windows.

A company called Seaglaze will do the same... there's one or two others if you search also.

I've sent my Westerly windows off to Trafalgar Yachts (as Westerly speecialist) - for a long 1.25m * 14cm window, around £100 for refurbishing, sealing & re-glazing, which I thought was good value. I dont know where they are sending it to get it done though.