I have to cut out a 12" x 12" section of a bulkhead to install a foot rest. The bulkhead is fiberglass with balsa core. Should I seal the balsa core with some type of resin before installing the foot rest. It is in a place where it is not exposed to a lot of water. If so, what type of resin should I use?

Dave M.

Yes, seal it. Use Epoxy, it sticks to everything.
Gary

Buy some Git Rot penetrating epoxy (at most boat stores), it will soak nicely into the balsa grain and seal it.

-Greg

West System products also work well. You have to seal it, regardless of how much water might get up there.

Thanks for the info guys. I am having nightmares about cutting this hole. I'm measuring 1000 times and hopefully only cutting once!

Just using the epoxy is probaby ok but if you REALLY want to do it correctly you should put Glass over it. Resin will not keep it from cracking and once you get a crack you will have a place for water to get in.

Jon