plywood decking over strip decking...

[david quillin]

My boat has fir decking on the bow, stern, and washboards laid in about 1" wide strips with a black rubber material (about 1/8") between each strip. The rubber has deteriorated and rot has begun in a few areas. I am considering covering the decking with 1/4" plywood, fully bedded in epoxy and coated on the top and sides as well, then painting it. I lose the nice appearance (and dirt hiding capacity) of the fir decking, but this is a work boat and the decking always looked a little 'yachty' on it anyway. Does this seem like a good approach, or are there better solution?

[JimD]

Just my humble opinion but you may want to get rid of the old planking more or less entirely and then redeck in plywood. This will ensure you remove all the rot and keep the deck from getting too heavy. Hard to beat a plywood deck for strength and low maintenance.

[redsail]

An epoxy set plywood covered deck will be rigid, the boat will have no give in that area while the rest of the boat will want to move a bit with the temperature and humidity changes. Not so good.
I suggest repairing the fir deak by replacing the decayed wood and sealing the tired seams with roofing gum, then cover with a fitted layer of roofing paper all covered with canvas, bedded in a thin coat of the roofing gum. Edges tacked with copper tacks under the trims. Paint the canvas often and this deck will outlive you.