Refinishing the cabin floor

[dolce06]

Could anyone share technique for sanding/stripping/oiling the cabin floor? I've read everything from complete refurb to just reapplying teak oil? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

[Zanshin]

What material is your cabin sole?

[Faster]

Assuming its the standard "teak & holly" be very careful about sanding, the veneers are quite thin and the underlying plywood noticably different. I've had good results, after a scuff sand of a previous finish, applying Ultimate Sole coating. It has a good (high) gloss but retains anti-slip properties. It's been on a season now and is standing up quite well.

Teak oil tends to collect dirt and I'd probably not use it on the cabin sole especially.

[camaraderie]

Ultimate sole gets rave reviews from everyone here that has tried it. Gives a beautiful glossy yet high traction finish. Easy to use.
Read about it and application here:
www.ultimatesole.com

[teshannon]

I've tried it and as Cam said, Ultimate Sole is great.

[Sabreman]

I've used Minwax Spar Urethane with excellent results on both my Sabres over the years. First sanded with a palm sander and 220 grit, changing disks about every 4 feet. Dusted, then vacuumed, then started at the bow and worked my way aft lightly using a tack cloth as I worked and varnished (don't let the tack cloth rest on the floor between "tack-ings"). After about 3 coats it will look great; wait 24 hrs between coats.

Depending o the vintage of your Sabre, you may have a veneer floor, so don't get too aggressive when sanding. Depending on the age of your floor, you may dave some dents; don't try to sand them out.

Don't oil the floor. It'll look good for about an hour and then will only collect dirt.

Good luck, it's not that difficult a job.

[dolce06]

I had read one of those articles in Sail that made it sound like a 50 hour job and was not looking forward to it. My boat is a 1981 and the floor is original so I would guess it is the composite and I will go easy on the sanding. We are really looking forward to upgradnig the interior, including having the cushions re-covered.

[midlifesailor]

Originally Posted by dolce06

I had read one of those articles in Sail that made it sound like a 50 hour job and was not looking forward to it. My boat is a 1981 and the floor is original so I would guess it is the composite and I will go easy on the sanding. We are really looking forward to upgradnig the interior, including having the cushions re-covered.

I would advise against sanding at all if you have a laminate sole. I used Strypeze paste, then 4 coats of Ultimate Sole and the result was outstanding.

[dolce06]

Thanks for the good info; I'm going to follow your advice and take that apporoach.

[teshannon]

Originally Posted by dolce06

Thanks for the good info; I'm going to follow your advice and take that apporoach.

Let us know how you make out.