Water intrusion from the deck is the silent killer of boats. It rots bulkheads and ruins headliners. If your deck hardware is aging, it's time to seal the envelope.
1. Hatches and Deck Plates
UV light destroys rubber seals. If your Bomar or Lewmar hatch drips when you wash the boat, you don't always need a new hatch—often, a fresh gasket kit will do.
For access to shut-off valves and wiring, Deck Plates (Pie Eyes) are essential. If yours are cracked or yellowed, pop them out. We stock the standard sizes (4", 6", 8") from Sea-Dog and Beckson.
2. The "Head Banger" Fix: Gas Springs
Does your livewell lid or engine hatch slam shut on your fingers? The Gas Springs (Lift Struts) have lost their pressure.
Replacing them is easy, but you must measure two things:
- Extended Length: Center of ball-socket to center of ball-socket when open.
- Force (Lbs): Usually stamped on the side of the old cylinder (e.g., "40lbs").
Find Your Replacement Gas Springs
3. Cosmetic Surgery: Marine-Tex & Keel Guards
For deep gouges in fiberglass or aluminum, Marine-Tex is legendary. Known as "The Mighty Repair Kit," this epoxy putty cures harder than the original hull and can be sanded and painted.
To prevent future damage when beaching your boat, install a Keel Guard. It’s a 3M-adhesive strip that armor-plates your keel against sand and rocks.
