When did Grady start using non rot wood in transoms and stringers and do they still use it? I recall older product catalogs mentioning XL 100 rot proof wood, but haven't seen that mentioned in recent catalogs.
I know i am opening a can of worms now, but wood is the best material in many aspects to built a boat. I really don't want to argue or go to a pissing contest by saying this.
Even the XL or whatever fancy term plywood will rot, it may take longer but it will still rot. But.... if the wood is kept dry it will never rot. The secret is to properly seal any penetrations and completely glass the the outsides.
Composites are strong and light but if they fail they have very little strength left.
I agree that maintaining totally sealed stringers and transoms are crucial in preventing rot. Both of my previous Grady transoms required rebuilding. My 1984 204 probably leaked at the dealer installed swim platform and perhaps underneath the aluminum trim surrounding the motor cutout. My 1996 Gulfstream leaked around the stern lifting eyes and perhaps around the bracket mounting bolts. I'm anxious to do whatever is necessary to preserve the transom on my new bracketed Freedom 225. Are there any recommended periodic servicing procedures or any preventive maintenance ideas that will help to insure a sealed transom?