Wet foam stringers

[don1113]

I have a 2003 26ft. boat with foam core stringers. I recently discovered that a fish box was draining on top of the stringers and the foam wicked up the water. I have received conflicting opinions. One being, the stringers are shot. The other is that it is harmless. I have cured the water intrusion but I am not sure if I should drill some holes to let the water drain out then patch it up, or do I need to remove the top of the stringers and re-foam them?

[gonzo]

There is a really good article in the last Professional Boatbuilder about wet cores. They don't seem to change the structural integrity of the laminate. Unless you live in a cold climate where the stringers can freeze, it should be OK.

[don1113]

I am not familiar with "Professional Boat Builder" do you know how I can get a hold of the article? Thanks so much for your help.

[JR-Shine]

Closed cell foam should not whick any water up. If there are empty spaces, then water could get in a just sit. Its a newer boat, so I would thing the foam is closed cell. I doubt there is anything wrong

[don1113]

Thanks for your reply.