If proper maintenance is taken, it should not rot, but they do from time to time. Grog is correct, most problems occur from not sealing holes correctly or not tightening fasteners after years of use. Many boaters do not think to do this work and encounter problems. Not all problems can be avoided, but many can. Transoms and stringers are known to rot, but often it is because owner's did not know how to prevent issues, that isn't to say there are some who did preventivie maintenance and had issues. Grady's are not alone, there are many builders with issues, and it is not only wood. Foam core can disintegrate over time from vibrations or pounding, they can absorb water and become mush quicker then wood if holes are not sealed correctly and fiberglass layup is not done properly. To prevent any issues, check all your thru0hulls first, if any are corroding or cracked, replace them immediately. Usually the bronze pipe that goes from the motor well to the scuppers goes first, if you see the lip falling apart or a crack, seal it with 4200 right away and get them fixed, the 4200 is only a temp fix. Make sure when you drill holes for transducers of anything else in the hull that you seal the holes with 4200. Make sure all your deck screws are tight, if any seem loose, you really need to remove the screw and fill the hole with 4200 and put it back to be safe. Every other year at a min you should replace the seals on your inspection hatches, every year ideally, the gasket is not expensive, and this will prevent water from getting into the bilge. Check hoses to avoid leaks, this will also keep your bilge dry. Most Grady's, especially new one's do not drain anything to the bilge, if you have a bit of water in there, chances are it is getting in through the deck or a leaky hose or fitting. Water in the bilge can saturate the hull, and for some reason Grady does not always seal screw holes correctly inside the hull. Also, check your caulk in the deck's, if it looks bad, chances are it is and should be replaced, if water leaks through there it will rot the deck core and its supports. Watch the metal trim along the transom, this needs to be sealed along its edges and if it pits badly, replace it. Many think just because it is there it keeps water out, water can get behind and under it if it is not sealed with a good marine caulk. Grady's are not the only boats with these issues or only brand that uses wood. Many brands have issues, but guys blow the issues with Grady's out of proportion because they think they should be 100% problem free for ever. I think Grady builds one hell of a boat and uses great materials, sometimes I think there are steps they miss or do not attend to 100% perfectly, but they are far beyond many comparable builders out there.
