high moisture level

Question
I am looking at purchasing a 1986 regal commodore.  The moisture level was high in a 2x3 ft section in the rear quarter.  If the leak is found does this section have to be replaced, est. is $2500 or could it remain wet safely?

Answer
Hi Amy...Thank you for selecting the undersigned to reply to your question.

Any degree of moisture within a hull's laminates is a critical  symptom and indicates a likely case of osmosis, whereby water permeates through the gel coat and resin and into the fiberglass laminates. Over time, partiuclarly during winter storage, the moisture freezes and expands, and separates the laminates. This is not a safe situation and should be remedied promptly. Problem is, if you have osmosis in one location, chances you have it elsewhere in the hull, and probably within the main wood stringers and crossmembers which are encased in fiberglass.

Check the exterior of the hull very closely, above and below the waterline, and look for small to large blisters of gel coat, which invariably indicates osmosis. I recommend you get a qualified repairer to scan the entire hull with a moisture meter to determine the full extent and locations of osmosis, before proceding with repairs. Reason being, it may be not be economical to repair a boat that's almost 20 yrs. old.

Next time you decide to invest in a pre-owned boat, engage the services of a qualified and reputable marine surveyor. They're worth every cent you pay them, in most cases.

Safe Boating
Ron