Rupert Smith

GRP/FRP

The usual question asked by a purchaser when inspecting the underwater sections of a hull is "Has it got osmosis?" Quite often the answer is 'yes', but the degree of blistering and moisture content of the hull will vary considerably within this simple answer. Minor wicking and raised moisture content in a thirty year old hull costing £12,000 will be seen differently to a two year old boat costing £200,000.

Any faults found with any hull will be reported, but the significance of the fault will also be discussed with the client, to ensure that they have as complete a perspective of the situation as possible.

That said, beware of the comment "No boat has ever sunk of osmosis". Maybe not, but some have been found that were pretty close!

Other faults that are sometimes well hidden are stress cracks in the gel coat, below several coats of anti-foul, particularly on lightly built sports boats. Such wear and damage can be found with knowledge of the most highly stressed or vulnerable areas of the hull.

The good news about GRP is that a good boat builder will be able to repair nearly any problem that is found... given enough time and money.