Boat Damaged- Teak Rail Repair

[dgsail]

Unfortunately, my beautiful 1986 CD 26 was damaged by another boat while parked in her slip. The starboard toe rail was damaged wood is splintered and screw heads are showing, there is spider crazing on the top of the deck near the impact, and a section of hull gel coat is damaged. I am awaiting a return call from Boat US regarding insurance. I have never filed a claim before.

I suspect this is going to take a skillful repair.
How do I go about finding someone that can do a good job?
What do I need to know in dealing with the insurance company?
How do I ensure that I get the quality of materials used that are in line with CD original quality?

Thanks,
Debbie

[Sea Hunt Video]

Unfortunately, my beautiful 1986 CD 26 was damaged by another boat while parked in her slip. The starboard toe rail was damaged wood is splintered and screw heads are showing, there is spider crazing on the top of the deck near the impact, and a section of hull gel coat is damaged. I am awaiting a return call from Boat US regarding insurance. I have never filed a claim before.

I suspect this is going to take a skillful repair.
How do I go about finding someone that can do a good job?
What do I need to know in dealing with the insurance company?
How do I ensure that I get the quality of materials used that are in line with CD original quality?

Thanks,
Debbie

Hello Debbie:

Is BoatUS the other guy's insurance co. or is it yours or both The other guy's insurance co. should be paying for the damage repair NOT you (and not your ins. co.). If both of you have BoatUS make sure all of the paperwork reflects that it was the other guy who damage your Cape Dory 26. You do not want your rates potentially increasing because of someone else's mistake.

As for repairs, if BoatUS is your insurance co., you may want to check with their local agent. They sometimes know craftsmen to recommend. Of course, you always run the risk of getting a recommendation based on friendship versus quality.

I would also ask around with other sailors/boaters at your marina. Also the dock manager, etc. Word generally spreads about the good ones versus the not so good ones. Whoever you consider make sure they give you 2-3 names of people they have done similar work for locally so you can call them and ask. Again, the good craftsman will be more than willing to give names. If they refuse, walk away.

As for materials, discuss with the craftsman. Most CDs had/have teak toe rails, etc. It should not be too difficult to match material. It will then presumably get varnish, Cetol, oil, etc.

Anecdotally, 2-3 years ago a diesel mechanic was recommended to me by a friend. The mechanic worked only part time because he taught at a diesel mechanic school. The guy were excellent - honest, timely, neat, patient, knew his stuff. He quit teaching and began working full time as a diesel mechanic. Word spread through the sailing club and other local marinas. Now the guy is VERY busy. Reason Simple - honest, timely, neat, patient, knew his stuff.

Debbie, if you ask enough sailors/boaters, etc. you will soon get a short list of quality craftsmen.

Good luck

[Neil Gordon]

What Robert said about asking around. I've done well asking my sail maker, who's been around forever and knows just about everyone.

My mechanic, by the way, who works independently, has no markings on his van... he's busy enough from repeat customers plus their referrals.

[Kevin_P]

Sorry to hear of your accident. I had the toerail replaced on my CD30 about 6 year ago by a nationally-recognized boat repair person in Milwaukee at Centerpointe marina. Not sure if you'd want to make the run up here from Chicago, but he did an amazing job, including new Awlgrip/Awlcraft topsides, bowsprit, and toerail. PM me if you'd like details.

Thanks,
Kevin Petajan

[dgsail]

Kevin,
Thanks for the info. How do I contact you off line for the referral/details?

[dgsail]

Roberto and Neal,
Good suggestions on the insurance and resources. Thanks.

[Kevin_P]

Hi Debbie,
I just sent you a Private Message.
Thanks,
Kevin