[C320-list] Hatch Boards

[Warren Updike]

I'm done with my wood companionway boards.  I consulted a boating friend who
is also a top-end wood worker hobbyist; and, he told me that no wood worker
worth his salt would design such boards with grains running at 90 deg.  The
joints are a problem allowing flexing that quickly breaks the varnish bond.
He suggested PVC boards.  These can be had at Home Depot under a brand name
that I have forgotten.  They come in 10" width that is enough for out
boards.  PVC boards can be work like wood.  This project is on my list.

Warren & Pattie Updike
1994 C320 #62 "Warr De Mar"

-----Original Message-----
From: Sean Kaldor [mailto:spkaldor at yahoo.com] 
Sent: Saturday, May 07, 2011 1:41 AM
To: c320-list at lists.catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Hatch Boards

Ok, so I'm getting tired of refinishing the companionway hatchboards. I'm
looking for another solution and wondering if anyone out there has come up
with a better set-up. 

I'm big on safety, so looking for something very sturdy - something that
won't bend or simply pop out under pressure. Would also like something
durable - that won't chip when its being moved about.

Has anyone come up with a solution? There is almost no wood on a C320's
topsides, so the companionway boards are the last piece of the equation. 

Acrylic ... do those chip? HDPE (starboard), do those bend and press out
under pressure? One full-sized piece vs. three pieces?

I'm not looking for doors ($$$) or screens... just a basic replacement.

Any thoughts / solutions would be appreciated.

Sean
Liberte #499
San Francisco