Foam core vs balsa core

[thinwater]

I understood that the PDQ Altair was all foam core, but in the process of pushing a hole saw though the head/bow bulkhead (adding a bathroom fan) I ran into balsa core material. It was well bonded so I am not concerned, but I was surprised.

Which parts of the boat are balsa core vs foam core?

[James Power]

Hey Thinwater, I wasnt very involved with hull and deck layups but if memory serves, the majority was foam core with the exception being some smaller parts and I have seen it at the ends of the bridgedeck where they curve up to meet the deck. ( it can take a curve easier then foam ). Since balsa core loves to absorb water and rot, make sure to coat and seal it whenever encountered. James

[thinwater]

out of the hole saw when I got home, in better light. It is in a dry portion of a bulkhead, up high, but I was planning to take the vent back out and epoxy the edges.

I thought it would be good for owners to be aware. I have looked at other areas and always found foam core. The boat does not have any delamination issues.