TO Foam or not to Foam

[eman369]

That is the question. I have searched and no one but Pietro has removed all foam some people say replace for structural integrity some say reinforced hull don't worry Hmmm I really don't know does anyone have a definitive answer?? last I checked foam or not if your boat gets too swamped it is going down:smt089. I don't mind opinions for there are allot of those here heeheeehe. Don't take offense I was just kidding.

 

[fc3]

What are you talking about?

 

[wish2fish]

http://clubsearay.com/forum/showthread.php?t=35845

did we need another thread?

 

[eman369]

Sorry. I was looking for any definitive answers. Is it structural? sound block?, flotation aid? I have read many of the posts on restoration but the people there were not sure yes I read Pietro's posts but it did not answer the question other than "I just removed it" I was hoping for a more concise (maby concise is not the right word but better reasons to put the foam back in.

 

[AnchorsAweigh]

Hi eman, I will give you my opinion. For your 3 questions the answer is yes, yes, and yes. Anytime I've ever removed foam from a boat I've returned some after ensuring the wood/glass is sealed up. It's not absolutely critical but it was originally put there for a reason. You can use everyday "foam in a can" but I suggest using the low expansion type, it is difficult to estimate the amount necessary in odd shaped areas, and you can always go back and add more. If there is an area you don't want it to stick to, like a spot where you potentially want to access again later, than lay some poly or a garbage bag in the area to put the foam into.
Hope this helps you and good luck!
Just finished reading the other "foam" thread. Guess thats what I like so much about this forum, lots of ideas and opinions, then you get to choose whats best for you.
To add to the "it's wet and useless anyway" concept, if it is wet than you likely have other issues that need attention, like cracked or broken floor boards or a hole in the hull. Yes you should get it out but replacing it isn't such a bad idea. It does add that third dimension to the structure, meaning that it may not make the hull stronger during normal use but perhaps when subjected to harder impact you may only get a crack vs. gaping hole. Again, just my opinions...