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Hi all i thinking of fitting secondary glazing using clear acrylic sheet and magnetic tape. Has anyone done this and if so how effective has it been. My boat has 18 windows and umpteen vent on the roof. i am looking at way of keeping the boat warmer. I have a morso squirrel with a eco fan but this only tends to heat one end of the boat. we also have a back boiler but this only heats the radiators if the fire is absolutely blazing. we are just getting the hang of keeping the fire going all night but it is still really cold in the mornings and I feel having so many cold pain of glass and draft has a lot to do with this problem.

Hi All, In preparation for my first summer cruising I will be getting her engine checked, painting her and making small repairs before we set off. I have a few questions re this work and would be extremely grateful for any advice or pointers from this community. Engine Check ~ The engine cut out on the only time she has been out since we bought her last year. The guys who took her out on her first trip with my partner said it did not seem to be a major issue and just needed some minor repair work. The engine is petrol (converted from diesel). My main questions re the engine are: ~ Can anyone recommend any reputable mechanics in the Nottingham area to take a look and assess work required. ~ If we plan to cruise often and for long distances, would it be advisable to get a new engine to safeguard against the possibility of it cutting out again and landing us in sticky waters? Would this be an investment or waste of funds? ~ How much is a decent new engine, should the need arise for one and what ones are reliable / recommended? ~ What precautions need to be taken with petrol inboards? Painting The exterior requires painting. I am happy to do this myself with the help of my partner and a friend. I am a pretty good painter. I just need to know the following: ~ How do I prepare the surface and remove any loose paint? ~ How many coats are recommended? ~ What paint brands / brush types are best for my boat and where is the most cost effective place to buy them? ~ How long would this take with 3 people working say a 7 - 8 hour day on it? Replacing Front Window ~ One of the 2 front windows needs replacing. It is cracked but, not leaking but is in need of replacement. I don't have the skills to do it myself and don't know where to start on this one. ~ Where can I source the glass cut to fit? ~ Who could I contact re fittting? ~ Ideas on cost (rough estimate)? These are the obvious things that require attention. Is there anything else I should be checking / doing in preparation for summer cruising? (Apart from having anchor, life jacket etc on board and in good order) Apologies if any of these questions appear stupid. I am very new to boat maintenence and don't want to cut any corners on the work I do or get ripped off as a female who knows little about engines and glazing Thank you so much for any feedback that is forthcoming. I really appreciate it!

Hi All, We have been thinking about fitting some of that cheap film that you can attach to window frames and then make taut with the use of a (12v) hair drier. Do any of you have experience with this? I've seen it used in a house, but the main issue I envisage on a boat is how to stick it securely to the wooden window frames. We want to use this on most - but not all - windows to reduce condensation and increase heat insulation. Any thoughts??? Cheers!