Building New Toerail

[Swiftsure33]

Any recommendations for cheap material to build a toerail for a 1960 Rhodes Swiftsure 33? It will not be structural as the hull deck joint is fully glassed. I plan on screwing the rail down then completely glassing it over to help with maintenance and water penetration. Since the core material will not be seen I only care about it being good enough, not perfect. Any ideas appreciated.

 

[PAR]

Instead of 'glassing things in, consider an inert material, such as HDPE, which can be bolted down over bedding, wears well, doesn't rot and will last a long time.

 

[Swiftsure33]

Instead of 'glassing things in, consider an inert material, such as HDPE, which can be bolted down over bedding, wears well, doesn't rot and will last a long time.

Interesting, never heard of the stuff. Know of any examples I can look at? I really like the look of the current toerail which is screwed in and glassed over, but unfortunately it was poorly done and desperately needs replacing.

 

[PAR]

HDPE and UHMPE are inert plastics and a good example might be, what your other half uses as a cutting board, in the kitchen. It's easy to machine, drill and shape and is best bolted down, like a rail would be. StarBoard is a brand name you can look up.

 

[Swiftsure33]

Sorry I meant an example of a sailboat with a StarBoard or similar toerail. I know the material but it'd be nice to "see it in action" so to speak before I make any decisions.

 

[PAR]

I don't have picture of this application, though have seen it and HDPE is commonly used for certain elements of boats. I've seen whole center consoles made of this stuff, as well as hatches, locker lids and other pieces that need to remain unmolested by rot.

 

[Swiftsure33]

Well I'll be sure to look in to it, thanks.

 

[fredrosse]

HDPE pipe is common, available at box stores, etc. Impervious to any chemicals, cannot be glued to anything. Very inexpensive direct burial water pipe, and also available in heavy wall for high pressure service.