Washboards

[chippysmith]

Mine need to be replaced, I have two, one slotting in above the other. Introduced a louvre panel last season and this has helped ventilation no end, this is a feature I would like to keep in the new ones.

I am stuck on the design. Would like to use smoked perspex but like the idea of a pair of doors, they would need to be on lift off hinges otherwise they would obscure displays when open, would certainly be nice once moored though.

Failing that a return to slot in type, was thinking hardwood M & T frame with smoked perspex panel rebated in.

Anyone know of a good source of design ideas? or something they have used that works for them.

Thanks in advance

C

 

[Spuddy]

Similar was on list for me - but a fair way down. Don't forget to post any conclusions you come to - would be useful.

 

[mikejames]

I replaced wood with smoked perspex when I did up the boat. I use a largish gap for ventilation at the top of the upper board with an overhanging hatch to keep the weather out. The gap is wide enough for a shorepower lead to go through. I then use a solar powered ventilator (£50 every 2 years...) for airflow in the fore hatch.

 

[Gubbo]

Hi,

I've just made a set of doors for my own boat to use in place of the washboards when I'm on board. I wanted to retain the ability to use the original washboards for safety at sea and security when leaving the boat for longer periods.

I came up with this design that utilises the washboard grooves to hold the jamb part of the doors. They are retained by a small dowel that hooks behind the hatch upstand. As such, they can be lifted away without any residual hinges etc waiting to snag waterproofs (or bikini's hopefully).

This picture was taken at their first fitting and they've now been fitted with a lock and varnished.

Of course, the design will vary with every boat, but given that most have washboard grooves, the basic idea should be adapatable.

The perspex windows are slightly smoked and this is really effective at providing a little privacy below whilst allowing a good view out.

Hope this helps

 

[chippysmith]

Excellent, they look just the job. Fine piece of work by the way. I think thats spot on, traditional set and the doors. Thanks, think i will go this route.

 

[William_H]

From my point of view washboards are primarily for security against burgulars. Don't disregard this aspect unless you have a very secure mooring. My washboard is solid 5mm Aluminium after plywood was smashed some years back. olewill