GRP Hull
The Nicholson 38 was very heavily and strongly built.
Below the waterline the hull has been epoxied. A survey in 2004 found low levels of moisture throughout and the epoxy layer well adhered to the hull. Old antifouling completely removed winter 2006. Underlying epoxy inspected and declared sound – small areas repaired as necessary – then coated with underwater primer before being re-antifouled.
The topsides were originally mid-blue gel coat. This was overpainted at a date unknown to present owner. Winter 2006/2007 topsides rubbed back to the gelcoat and resprayed (Mauritius Blue) with International Paints ‘Perfection’ two pot polyurethane, then coated with teflon wax and buffed up. Boot top done with International Paints Toplac ‘Snow White’ at the same time. Boot top repainted May 2015 with International hard antifouling and recoated every winter since then.
Winter 08/09 some hint of blisters (dry, so probably not osmotic) around the waterline and under the counter stern. Nevertheless, gel coat peeled professionally (by Advanced Osmosis Technology Ltd) washed, scrubbed etc as advised by AOT then epoxy filled and fared by them. Area repainted. (Pictures of work available. See also March 2012 issue of PBO)
May 2015 topsides cut back with T Cut, then polished with ptfe polish. May 2017 topside cut back and repolished again. April 2018 done again.
GRP Coachroof
Survey in 2004 found high levels of moisture around hatches and some blistering of gel coat on the coachroof. However, the coachroof remained firm – no sign of sagging or structural failure. Nevertheless, the headlining, inner grp layer and balsa core were removed, the area dried out and rebuilt (with foam sandwich). New teak plinths were made and the hatches rebedded and resealed. Work done by Richardsons Boatyard, Island Harbour, IOW . Main hatch removed March 2015 and then rebedded using oil based mastic. Also new neoprene rubber seal fitted (8mm ‘rod’ neoprene). Cabin top/hatch plinth joint cleaned (without removing) and sealed with white silicone.
Windows
2010 windows in forecabin and saloon removed and then refurbished (dismantled, cleaned and the glass resealed in the frames) by Seaclear Windows, Maidstone, Kent. Inner frames cleaned up and resprayed and then all refitted into the coachroof using neoprene sealing strip and new s/s screws. Two acrylic windows in cockpit canopy renewed May 2016
GRP Rudder
Previous owner had rudder strengthened and rudder post bearings overhauled 2001
Teak Decking and grabrails treated with cleaner and brightener before being sealed with Semco sealant (winter 2005/06, re-touched winter 06/07 and winter 2007/08, this latest reseal done with Teak Wonder rather than Semco) Retouched again winter 2008/09 and each subsequent winter. Areas of teak on port side deck removed and replaced Jan 2010. Areas of teak removed and replaced on both port and starboard sides March 2012. Also damage to toe rail repaired at same time. Further replacement on starboard side March 2014. April 2018 hatch lid to lazarette renewed – original teak planking carefully removed and re-glued onto new 18mm marine ply base before re-caulking.
Keel
Long keel with encapsulated lead ballast (2.65 tons)