Hello, I think my other post got deleted when I tried to edit the photos links
I bought an older H18 for cheap, I've done some fiberglass proto-typing and repairs on cars and surf boards, but I have a couple questions about this boat, mainly the hull layup and recommendations for getting access.
It came from Maryland, hulls are surprisingly solid, soft spots on the rear most decks, the rest is faded but great, with the exception of what's pictures below from a fallen tree branch during Florence (may be older?). The hull had a few inches of water inside, seemed like Rain water. The outside hull has some cracking of the gelcoat, top deck is obviously crunched and delaminated, as well as the interior as you can see in the pictures.
My idea so far is to cut the damaged portion of the deck (12" long and half the deck width), grind and recover the cracked seam/deck joint (which runs to my hand visible from the one topside photo about 30"), then re-lay the delaminated interior and probably exterior of the damage to the lower hull, then patch the deck back down (possibly trying to salvage the outer skin of the deck so it somewhat matches). I have no illusions about racing, having the boat 100 years, or selling it or attempting to cross the atlantic. I'd like to spend a summer where I am currently stuck for work sailing cheaply off the beach, maybe take it home to teach my kids in NC, and that's about it.
I'd like advice on how anyone recommends repairing it.
1. There is an access cover that allows me to reach the damage inside, but I thought if the deck was as damaged as it is might as well cut it and exploit the more direct access?
2. Lay up schedule and recommendation for weave and weight of mat (not familiar with these at all)
Thanks, I do appreciate any advice. This is the first summer I've had time for a hobby since 9/11
