Epoxy vs Fiberglass
 

OK, need some advice on my little project. The engine cover has rotted and pulled loose from the hinges. The upholstery is in fairly good condition but will need some patching and work to make it usable. I used the original plywood as a template and made a new one.

Looking at the new board, I'm wondering why I would even put the upholstery back on. If you think about it people are continually walking and crawling over this cover and the upholstery takes a lot of wear and tear. So why not seal the wood and then cover with SeaDek or other floor foam? This would make it much easier to walk over, wear better and with the wood sealed last much longer. I would like to paint or gelcoat to give it that pro finish.

My question is whether to use an Epoxy sealer and then paint or to fiberglass the board and then possibly paint or gelcoat. The Epoxy seems pretty easy and may add some strength but the fiberglass would probably be more durable and professional. I'm not sure how much heat would come up from the motor so that is also a consideration. Whadya think?

Re: Epoxy vs Fiberglass
 

I personally like the upholstery better. Keeps the factory look. Not really sure that the board with glass or whatever, could be made to look good. May be more functional, but , just my 2 cents.