How Much (If Any) Overlap at Bottom of Hatch?

[John6012]

I've built the hatch, it's not skinned but screwed on as a dry fit. My question is, how much overlap at the bottom where it meets the rear floor? I cut it flush with the floor but after studying the situation, feel an overlap is needed for a good seal. If I have to, I can rip off the luan and glue another piece on with an overlap and I've got it. Or, I can glue a second sheet of luan making 1/2 inch which adds much to the weight...Probably the best thing is to start over keeping the weight to a minum huh? Thanks

[TomS]

No need to rebuild that hatch. Simply screw a 1/8 x 1 1/2" strip of aluminum to the bottom of your hatch. Not only will you cover that gap, you will also have a nice drip edge to divert water away from your galley floor.



As you can see, I had to relieve mine a bit to accomodate the hatch handle. Be sure to use plenty of caulk. Finally, I put a thick weather strip right up against the drip edge along the botom of the hatch.

[bdosborn]

I did the same thing only I used t-molding instead of a flat strip.
Bruce

[John6012]

Thanks for he quick replies. I will go with your idea of an aluminum strip. It will bemuch, much esier than my final idea last night of cutting about 6 inches off the bottom of the hatch and putting another piece of luan on. Many thanks!

[doug hodder]

Like Tom mentions....I used a strip of aluminum in that area...but I did leave some ply behind it when I built it....a rod locking system like on a truck topper will allow you to place the handle further up the hatch, so you won't have to relieve the area where the handle and the aluminum strip meet....Doug

[John6012]

TomS, is that a 1/2" strip overhang on your hatch? Thanks, John

[TomS]

TomS, is that a 1/2" strip overhang on your hatch? Thanks, John

The aluminum strip is 1 1/2 inches wide. I have 1/2 inch on the hatch, just enough to hold the screws. The remaining width, about an inch extends beyond the end of the hatch.

[John6012]

Thanks Tom for the reply. I'll use your idea on the hatch. Regards, John