stringer material

[reeldutch]

Can i use trax (what is used as decking)<br />to replace a loose and broken stringer?<br />Trax does not rot and is flexible.<br />i want to cut it in shape and glass it in with 3 layers of matt.<br />but if somebody thinks trax is bad let me know please.<br />reeldutch

 

[JasonJ]

Re: stringer material

Trex is a bad idea for a stringer material. It is basically ground up plastic, and it is way too flexible for use as a stringer. Epoxy would probably bond to it, but flexibility is not what you want in a stringer. Flexibility over time could cause hull fracturing near the stringer, which would at best cause a crack and leak, and at worst cause a catastrophic failure at speed. Trex will not give you the structure and strength you need. I suggest either going with wood or some sort of composite. I do not know of anyone who has attempted to use Trex, as its strength to weight ratio is terrible. Good luck...

 

[doman]

Re: stringer material

if you dont wanna use wood try something called plascore worked great for me its little more expensive than marine plywood ..i have basicly replaced all the rotten wood on my boat with it ..<br />it comes in 4x8 sheets either 1/2" or 3/4" than you just fiberglass mat on both sides of it and its ready for cutting ...and no more rot <br /><br />Hope this helps<br /><br />Dom