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Hatch Refurbishment

We regularly refurbish hatches from all leading manufacturers including Lewmar, Goiot and Gebo as well as older units from Canpa and similar.  As with windows, an initially important consideration is how to disassemble, so that the lens can be removed and subsequently replaced.  This is not always possible.  

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Most hatches have tinted Acrylic lens, typically 10 or 12mm.  Lens are secured with sealant around the edge of the lens and in some cases under.  Sealant is typically silicone based; translucent, grey or black.

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Getting spares for older hatches is increasingly difficult, particularly handle/hinge parts and closing seals, so please take care when you are removing your hatches as if you break parts in the process you may find these impossible to replace without cannibalising another example.

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For Lewmar hatches, the closing seal typically sits under the lens, so can only be replaced with the Lens removed.  For this reason we normally recommend replacement at the same time as the Lens.  This is often not the case for Goiot, Gebo etc where the closing seal is glued to the underside of the lid frame.

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As mentioned elsewhere, vents are another taxing area, particularly the stainless steel ECS type or similar from Goiot which are typically screwed or tapped directly into the acrylic; a recipe for disaster, as when the acrylic heats/cools these areas will eventually crack.  We fit Lewmar retro-fit vents which require straight cut holes and are secured from the underside with pan head fixings which do not stress the acrylic.

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You will notice that the exterior plastic fittings (eg handles, hinge parts) will oxidize and fade.  In some cases we can supply new replacements to enhance the look of the refurbished unit, but if not we will look to clean, prime and spray paint these fittings before refitting.  In most cases these then look as new and unlike those treated with some wonder-polish will retain colour for more than a few weeks!

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If you have Lewmar hatches you can identify the range by reading this Blog post.  In terms of other things you should be aware of, please click below to complete the course.

Process - what we do best

Our outline process is as follows;

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  • On receipt, the hatch is assessed and inspected. If any damage is noted, or the hatch cannot be refurbished, we contact the owner. If a hatch cannot be repaired, it is returned.

  • The hatch is fully dismantled and all parts labelled.  We may have several similar units on the go at the same time so it's important to know what goes with what.

  • All parts are thoroughly cleaned and any handles, hinges and stays are serviced/freed up and put aside.  If new parts are required we will liaise with the client and if necessary source parts.

  • If a vent is fitted, it too is dismantled and cleaned if being reused.  We will discuss options with the customer.

  • If required, the closing seal is replaced or serviced.

  • New Acrylic is cut and (CNC) machine finished to replicate the original glazing.

  • The frame and Acrylic are given a final degrease/clean in preparation for sealing.

  • The hatch is re-assembled and sealed with the appropriate specialist Silicone and allowed to cure for at least 48 hours.

  • The handles, hinges and vent are re-fitted, having been 'improved' or replaced.

  • New plastic glazing is covered in protective film to reduce the risk of damage during re-installation.

  • Upon completion the hatches are inspected and cleaned to remove any silicone residue.

  • All hatches are carefully packed ready for dispatch/collection in custom made boxes.

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Other than a slight patina to the frame, the unit should return as new, good for the next 20-30 years.

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