transomstand wrote:I'm running a real world test to see how long it takes to rot out properly installed balsa, the test started in 1985......I'll report back when it rots out.....
There is proof right there!!! When done correctly and sealed up right you will not have to worry about rot. No sense in cutting corners now just to get it on the water cause it will only cost you twice as much later on and be twice as much work. So take the time, as hard as it might be, and do it right. The payoff will be so much more worth it. As far as not finding balsa core (Or any real composite core) is not that hard to find.
What is this foam she is going to use and what does it look like? I know they make a foam core material but the price for composite core material is usual twice what balsa core is so when she says she can do all that for that little amount of money has me worried. We just want to see you in boat that is built right the first time. Trust me, be patient and do it right! As hard as its been for me waiting for mine to get done, I know its going to be done right and never have to worry about it again. I could have cut a lot of corners just to get it on the water and don't think it didn't cross my mind but financially it would have cost me twice in the end and then the safety aspect of myself and others.
Well, I am tapping out of this one I think.... Good luck on whatever you decide to do but im sure everyone here would say the same thing, go get your boat back and take the time and do right yourself. Not only then will you have the peace of mind knowing it was done right, you can say you did it.
Make sure to get plenty of pictures though as we all love resto/rebuild progress pictures.
