"Geoff Schultz" wrote in message
.. .
Sorry, but I'm posting another on-topic question regarding boats instead
of
politics, global warming or general name calling...

My vinyl headliner is sagging in some locations due to the foam backing
deteriorating. Obviously this has been one of the down sides of storing
the boat in the Caribbean during hurricane season.

The headliner was glued on to 1/8" plywood which is held in place by
tension or mouldings. The problem started when the boat was only about 8
years old, so as a result I'm very leery of replacing the existing
headliner with another foam backed vinyl product, but I do want to utilize
a product that has the same look as the current product. There were some
locations where the headliner was installed and then cabinets were built
in-place under them. Due to the small spans in these locations, the
headliner is in good shape and it would take a huge effort to remove the
cabinets and gain access.

So, my basic question is: What is the purpose of the foam on the vinyl
material? Based upon research that we've done so far (which isn't
extensive), the vinyl comes uncoated and the distributor can apply foam to
it before shipping. Can I apply it directly to the plywood and if so,
what
are the downsides of doing that?


I hate to say it but anybody who buys a boat with the type of headliner you
have deserves the problems you have. Vinyl headliners are indicative of
low-end, entry level boats. There NEVER has been one put in that lasts more
than a dozen years or so, if that. They are lubberly and gross.

The solution to your problem is to do it right like the factory should have
done it right in the first place. Get rid of it. Rip it all out and replace
it with GRP and gel-coat. Until and unless you get serious about installing
a real overhead you will still be sailing a boat built like a car- to last
about ten years. Unacceptable.

Let this be a lesson to anybody looking to buy a boat. Just say no to vinyl
or any other sort of "cover up" overhead liner.

Wilbur Hubbard