Pilothouse Window Replacement Opinions

[tminski]

Hello Friendly Strangers,

When you get a moment, could you let me know your thoughts on this situation?

I'm replacing my boat windows (not so much ports). I have a choice between original, plastic framed windows and marine aluminum framed windows. This here post on my blog explains the situation, and here is a link to some pictures.

All opinions, insults, and compliments are welcome!

[sailingdog]

A couple of thoughts...

I'd go with the aluminum framed windows, since they're probably going to be easier to maintain in the future PROVIDED you install them properly. If you go with the aluminum framed windows, make sure that you use TefGel or Lanocote on the fasteners to help prevent galvanic corrosion problems.

As for your replacing the teak plywood with seaboard, I'd say that is probably a bad idea. If the teak plywood was installed as a structural stiffener, replacing it with Seaboard, which IIRC, isn't meant for use as a structural material, is a really bad idea. If you want to make the interior white and really low maintenance... install marine plywood that has been epoxy impregnated and then laminate white formica or other surface laminate to the plywood. This will give you the same structural strength of plywood, with the low maintenance finish of a plastic laminate.

[jrd22]

For $500 to get repairable, ABYC windows seems like the way to go to me. If you could get the aluminum frames to accomodate thicker glass/lexan it would be a good idea also if you plan any offshore sailing

John.

[Boasun]

They do make special rubber gaskets that are used to keep the windows in place. A bit of a pain to put in. I have replaced windows with these. The window is cut to size and then is held in place with the gasket. This method is used on many commercial vessels. Then you needn't worry about mixing metals or using sealants.

[tminski]

Thanks to each of you... good food for thought, good energy for action. The structural issue with my intended seaboard is a gem to reflect the light of further obsession, but definitely gives me a whack on the lazy bone. The boat is lightly constructed, so my use will be inland waters and brief, carefully chosen coastal cruises. I'll have to check into the gasket-thang.

[christyleigh]

Tim,
All I can give you is a second hand recommendation for Bomon. A couple Nauticat owners have gone with Bomon and claim to be happy with the product and service.