Ken Hastie - Westerly Centaur - Replacing V-berth headlining

Replacing V berth headlining
The problem with Westerly ‘drooping’ headlinings is not restricted to just the saloon. The V berth also suffers (possibly even moreso due to the increased condensation in that area). You will see from my other pages that I created a unique solution in the saloon area by using foam backed bamboo rugs. I also followed this method for the walls of the V berth, but the V berth roof is a different kettle of fish due to the curves in multiple planes. Bamboo just couldn’t be used. My solution was to use a very cheap foam product used as an underlay for wood laminate flooring. It was £5 a 5-metre roll, is extremely light, easy to cut with scissors and has a built-in damp membrane (closed cell construction). (Click on any image for a larger view)

This is the lightweight foam underlay normally used for wood laminate floors. Easily cut with scissors.

The old headlining was removed, the bare GRP cleaned up and painted with a primer.

This is the last section being cut to shape in-situ. The good thing about the foam is it can be stretched to reach over bolts, imperfections and moulding bulges.

The foam is cut to shape in-situ. I used Evo-stik spray adhesive and simply worked along bit-by-bit, cutting a bit then gluing a bit. Edges can be trimmed before gluing in.

Next task is to fill the gaps with acrylic sealant. It’s better than silicone because it can be painted. Use a finger to smooth out the acrylic.
(Note LED lights!)

This is the Port side after acrylic sealant has been applied.

The foam is easy to cut to shape around windows (Yes, this IS a Centaur - with upgraded windows). Slight errors can be filled with acrylic sealant.

The foam can then be painted. I used a product with a suede finish (from B&Q)

Here’s another view of the finished item. It is warm to the touch and being foam, will offer good insulation.