core-cell for deck

[Bentwood]

I notice many custom builders are using core-cell for decks and superstructures. I am building a 32' sailboat. The design calls for 2 layers of 1/4" ply covered by 6 oz glass. I am looking for suggestions about substituting core-cell for the plywood, particularly the thickness of the core and the fiberglass layup. Any technical references would also be appreciated.

[Edmundo Souto]

1/2" foam with one 18 oz on each side is more than enough for your deck

[Fanie]

Layers come out stiffer since the one layer has to stretch around the other. If you're set on using the ply then layer them on top of one another with a couple of layers (say 5 -6 layers of 400g/m^2 mat) in between (wet), stack some weight on it and allow 24 hrs for it to cure. If you can repeat this and add another layer it would be even better. Then work the outside. If there are large unsupported areas where the deck has to span with no support underneath I would seriously consider cross sections (ribs).

There is no such thing as a too strong deck. I always add the extra bit for that out of the ordinary situation. If thickness and weight is not an issue I'd say rather the overkill than the get killed.