floor repair advise

I have my boat in the shop getting the floor replaced. They are telling me that it is not necessary to replace the foam. Is this correct. If so, why was the foam in the boat in the first place? Can anyone please give me advise since I am not an expert and have no idea if I am getting the right information? Thanks, Lisa Boat is 1974 Skier

Lisa, this topic has been discussed at length here. Do a search and there is a ton of info. I a$$ume that the old foam has been removed, and the only question is whether to replace it or not? If it hasnt, I would recommend the old foam be taken out- even if it is still dry everywhere (unlikely if you had a rotten floor), the old foam isnt "closed cell" and is susceptible to absorbing water.

Many of the earlier Correct Crafts (mid 60's and prior) did not have foam installed in the floor and function just fine. I believe pretty much all boats from the late 60's onward had foam. It does provide some support between the hull and floor and would prevent the hull from "oil-canning" at speed. It should also keep the boat much quieter while at speed, crossing waves, etc. The foam also serves as flotation, should the boat become submerged. A boat with foam will most likely float at the top of the gunwale, while I suspect a boat without it would probably go to the bottom.

I wouldnt skip the foam- but thats my preferance. The cost to add it shouldnt be huge. The advantage to using new closed cell foam is that it wont absorb water the way the old stuff would.

My boat is a 1974 skier.

When I removed the floor on my 87 SN the observer side foam from the pylon back looked great. However, once I removed all of the foam in the boat, I found the bottom inch of that great looking foam was soaked. I say replace the foam.