I used hardware-store foam weatherstripping (3/8" wide x 3/16" thick) for my hatch gaskets, and while they do an excellent job of keeping the hatches 100% dry, the hatch covers stick to them. I used the knob-and-drawbar hatch closure, which provides excellent clamping force. I try to remember to loosen the knobs a bit when storing the kayak, but sometimes forget. I filled the weave of the cloth under the hatch cover so that there's a nice, smooth surface to seal on, but didn't coat it with polyurethane like I did on the exterior. The gaskets are pretty squishy and kind of tacky, and after being clamped, they don't want to let go of the hatch cover. I have to loosen the knob, then try to pry up on the edge of the hatch or torque on the knob to get the lid free.

This has been a bit of a nuisance and an embarassment as well -- people at the 2 symposia I've been to this summer have asked "how do the hatches work?" and I have to spend a minute monkeying with them to get them to open.

Do I need a different gasket material, or some kind of release coating? Last resort would be a little grab loop on the perimeter of the hatch to lift up on.

Thanx,

Dean