Water Seeping from GRP

[redsnapper]

I have just removed a skin fitting from the hull to replace with a new one, to find that the hole in the GRP is wet. I can dry it, but then it's wet again a minute or so.

I'm going to leave it for a week to see if it stops. There are no blisters in the gel coat that I can see.

Has anyone come across this before?

Thanks

 

[sailorman]

you havnt sealed it correctly /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

 

[redsnapper]

Sorry - didn't make myself clear - the boat is out of the water

 

[tabernacleman]

Hi, suggest a moister reading might be a good idea, what boat is it, what construction is the hull, Balsa Core ? Double skin ? solid glass? age of boat, which through hull fitting? all the info might help diagnose a problem/solution.

 

[PeterGibbs]

When you removed the skin fitting was there any mastic or sealant visible? If not, it confirms the liklihood that water penetrated to the side of the fitting. But perhaps if mastic was present it had failed through age etc.

This fluid must be allowed to drain out. Some heating from a hair drier can help this, but it could take time to get it really dry.

Then check the stability of the sourrounding GRP to take a replacement fitting; do the knock test and see when and if the note changes from a sound response to a duller note. If any weakness or crumbling is experienced, you will have to cut back and strengthen the surround with a good two-pot. Otherwise the new fitting will likely cause crushing.

Naturally the replacement fitting has to be bedded in with an appropriate sealant.

Yours would not be the first time leakage into the hull has taken place - not disastrous with sensible corrective measures.

PWG

 

[oldsaltoz]

[ QUOTE ]
I have just removed a skin fitting from the hull to replace with a new one, to find that the hole in the GRP is wet. I can dry it, but then it's wet again a minute or so.

[/ QUOTE ]

Never rely on sealant to prevent moisture entering your hull, critical below the waterline.

All below waterline holes must be treated to ensure no raw fibres are exposed. Exposed glass strands will draw water up by wicking, often mistaken for osmosis.

You need to dry and clean the area then apply at least 4 coats of epoxy resin. Note it is very important that the area is very dry or you will seal moisture in the hull and cause a bigger problem later.

I hope this helps.

Avagoodweekend......