More foam talk

[SS66]

When I pulled up my floor, there was foam at the very front of the boat where it comes to a point.. and around the bilge area. Inbetween that was mostly empty space except for 3 small hunks of styrofoam. Yes thats right STYROFOAM! This was the original floor which means that was how they did it at the Sea-Raider factory. Do you guys think I can get away with just the foam in front and back? I imagine those 3 hunks measuring about 6x4x4 didnt do a whole lot. Im pretty sure I can leave that space empty without too many worries. Just need the experts opinion. Thanks!

 

[Boomyal]

Re: More foam talk

Not knowing what type of boat you have or it's age, it's hard to say if it is needed for floatation purposes. The factories are pretty adept at calculating floatation requirements for their boats so it probably is.<br />Again keeping the above in mind it would be my opinion that you should foam it. It will be stronger and quieter if you do.

 

[JasonJ]

Re: More foam talk

How big is the boat? In my mind, foam as much as your wallet allows, and leave the center bilge (if it has a center bilge) empty.

 

[SS66]

Re: More foam talk

Its a 16 footer. Looks almost exactly like yours did before your restoration JasonJ. I know foam would stiffen up the floor, but the wood part of the 1/2 inch floor will only be 32 inches wide with the stringer right in the middle and supports on each side. I imagine strength will not be an issue. Thats why If I can, I dont want to put foam down the center just in the front and back where it was originally. That way water can more easily find its way to the bilge area. <br /><br />Thanks