Wooden Hatch (LM27 etc.)

[Sula]

Almost all the pictures of LM27s show the canvas cover in place over the wooden 'skylight' type hatch over the saloon. This leads me to suspect it's not feasible to make it watertight.  Is that correct?

Any other comments on these hatches?  (We'll be needing to refurbish ours sooner or later.)

I'm aware of the possibility of replacing it with a modern 'flush' plastic/metal type (and that it's a non-standard size), but I rather like the appearance of the wooden one, and the option of opening one, the other or both sides. 

[Charles]

We have the original wooden hatch and it is great when moored or at anchor on a warm day to open both sides and get the breeze blowing through, so I wouldn't change it. However, you are right about its water-tightness. The worst of the problem was solved when I replaced the clear view panels with two new pieces of tough perspex and sealed the edges thoroughly. The gap between the hatch and its frame is closed with a thick surround of sponge rubber, but I would not trust it to remain water-tight with waves breaking over it, so I always fit the cover before sailing.

Charles

[Sula]

I was on board recently in torrential rain without the canvas hatch cover on, and the water poured in! I think I will need to give it some attention because I wouldn't want to be finding out how it copes with waves coming aboard, even with the cover on!

I've been too taken up with other challenges to inspect it closely yet, but I think at least part of the problem on mine is the rubber seals are too firm and far too thick, which prevents adequate closure.

[oceandancer]

Hi Sula and Charles,

I too have retained the original Skylight for aesthetic reasons, it looks so nice when varnished up but I agree with Charles regarding watertightness. I don't have a canvas cover as this obviates any cosmetic appeal. Mine does leak slightly when it rains but I don't have carpet so it's not a problem. I don't think it would be a safety hazard at sea as long as it's dogged down really tight. When this has been required I get someone to apply their weight on deck while I tighten up below. Jan might have something to say on this.

You could try 18mm hatch tape as a sealing gasket, this is readily available, however, I don't think the design allows for this. Mine seems to rely on drip channels routed into the wood.

I have replaced the brass bars which cannot be kept bright with 6mm stainless steel- much better.

Regards

Mick

Has anybody managed to waterproof their skylight? - I would like to know how.

[jandane]

My original hatch gave up a couple of years ago after several repairs and nursing. I took it off and replaced it with a new acrylic thing. Functionel, watertight, easy to maintain etc etc but the look of ot is terrible compared to the original, wooden masterpiece. If I could undo it, I would have kept the original and have sealed, varnished and glued for many years to come.

[ivor]

It is a comfort to know that everybody elses hatch leaks. My cover only comes off during long dry spells. There is enough light in the saloon to allow the cover to stay on all the time and I am sure that the added ventilation given by the (covered) hatch helps keep the boat sweet when layer up.