Porthole Install: How-to

eNORMous,

I just got home after being away for a few days and saw your post.

We really like our portholes and don't regret the decision at all. The added ventilation and light has to be seen to be truly appreciated. We will be at the NC Gathering and you can check them out in person there.

Yes, they have primarily used in fresh water, although we did spend some time on the Chesapeake in June.

Regards,

Nick
"Valkyrie"
 
No replies-That's OK.
I ordered the PW 30s and will cut my holes with a Rotozip and their circle-cutter.
I'll document the installation and post it here.
 
Pete,

For what it is worth, you may want to reconsider the use of your Rotozip to cut the holes. I have found the Rotozip to be the perfect tool for drywall but cutting fiberglass is another matter. The tool turns the bit at a very high rpm and fiberglass just burns up the bits. in addition it is very noisy and dust flies everywhere. At least that is what I have found. I used a fine tooth keyhole say and it took less than 5 minutes to cut each hole. The cuts were smooth and right on the money.

Best regards,
Rollie C-Batical
 
Hey Guys,

Here's another thing I was thinking about. I'm pretty sure I'm going to drop in a couple of portholes - not tomorrow (stitching the canvas tarp boat cover at the moment), but when I do, I think we might (I know I will) think about glassing over the hole edges after it's cut out to prevent moisture from getting inside the fibers and glass. Even though it's going to be secured with caulking, I'm still thinking I'll glass over the edges of the holes once the cutting is done.

Norm
 
reconsider
Click to expand...
Thanks for the heads up Rollie. I've found the Rotozip to be a bit squirrely. With more practice I'd figure it out but I'm not going to practice on Adeline. I'll have to pick up a keyhole saw I guess.





PETE
 
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