Meindert Sprang wrote:

"Bernard Randall" wrote in message
...

I am at the planning stage of replacing some deck hatches on a sailing

boat.

The framework is mitered, to prevent endgrain being open to the sea, but

as

these are stepped on they also need to be strong.

I see the altenatives being miters with routed slots for loose tongues, or
mitered mortice and tennons. Anyone have any experience with this type of
work?


A mitered glued edge is not too strong, in my experience. Could it be a
solution to build the framework with whatever strong joints you want and
then cover it with a thin (3mm / 1/8") layer with mitered edges?

Meindert


Interlocking dovetails would be best in wood, sealed with paint,
whatever. For ultimate strengh, metal corner reinforcements, or
moulded solid glass fiber construction.

Ultimately, I would prefer a dark tinted plexiglass cover, with
gaskets and a moulded glass or aluminum edge frame resting on the
deck, with bugscreen and ventilation arrangenets integral. Perhaps a
modified scrap aluminum storm door frame?

Terry K