: Typically, both sides of the deck are fiberglassed before cutting
: the hatch openings.

: I slightly round the edges of the hatch cover, to take off the
: sharp edge. The I coat with several applications of epoxy resin.
: No cloth. I sometimes add a little silica dust to the epoxy, so
: it goes on a little thicker, but I don't really notice any
: difference in durability.

: If you'll be molding hatch rims with epoxy and fiberglass, consider
: leaving 'tabs' when cutting the hatch openings so the covers can
: remain in position while molding. Cut the tabs after the rims
: and any hatch reinforcing is made.

: John

I am not ready to do hatches yet John, but since you mention the idea of leaving tabs to assist hatch construction, I have a question. Is there a reason to cut the hatch openings before molding the rim which holds the sealing strip? I am tentatively planning to reinforce the hatch lid location, build the seal rim, and then cut the lid, attach the rim, and finish the edges. I have been thinking that this should work to ensure that all the bits accurately retain the curvature of the deck. Am I missing something?

Best regards,

Allan Edie