"David Flew" wrote in message
...

Unless the edges of the sheets were perfectly sealed, I'd not be surprised
if there is some softening and/or rot.

Yes, I'm sure this is a strong possibility, although it feels quite solid
for the most part. I guess I'll have to start scraping and if there's more
wood than rot, I'll use epoxy. If it is rotten, it will call for
replacement.
John.