Fixing small leaks

[Pacificcoast101]

We have two tiny spots inside our V-Berth that have water stains from leaks. I'd like to patch the area on the walls to stop the ingress of water. What is the best patch material to use?

 

[DaveInRI]

Do you know precisely where the water is coming from? Rub rail rivets perhaps?

 

[ssobol]

If the spots are on the sidewalls it is probably corroded rivets for the rub rail. This is a common issue with these boats. Usually the water stains from these areas are stained brown from rust. Eventually you will need to removed the rub rail and reattach it with better hardware. If the leaks are just one or two places you can delay the replacement by applying sealant to the outside of the rub rail where it meets the hull.

Other issues could be the hatch leaking or through bolts from the hardware on the front deck.
One source can be condensation collecting on the inside of the through bolts and dripping down.
It all depends on where the leaks are.

 

[Gulfcoast John]

Hi Phil,
For a temporary expedient block, I’d rather seal the leak at the outside source rather than inside. Otherwise the water will filter into the core and stay there. I like BoatLife because it’s not permanent and easy to remove. Steve shows where to seal a rubrail, but if you use 3M 5200 it might be a bear to remove when you decide to do a permanent rub rail fix.

Our tiny intermittent berth moisture is on the horizontal surface where the aft most bow rail support is bolted down. I smeared some BoatLife over and around the outside to last til we get home. Good Luck!
John