: My hatches turned out very well. I got the idea for the rare earth magnets
: from Rob Macks. Hatch layup from Vaclav's website. This forum is great,
: thanks to all that contribute on a regular basis.

You're welcome!

You must be sure the magnets are waterproof because they'll rust if water gets to them.
I cover them with a layer of 4 oz. glass to be sure.

How many magnets you'll need, how big and the spacing all depends on the gasket material you use. If you use 1/2" wide gasket and try to compress the whole witdth you may need the 3/4" magnets. If you only catch 1/4' of the edge of the gasket you may only need 1/2' magnets.

The magnets work well with the proper gasket placenment. I'm continuing to refine my use of them. I like the simplicty and uniform pressure, especially on flatter decks where shock cord or webbing is useless.

All the best,
Rob