What Are Boat Stringers?

Boat stringers are much like the floor joists within a house, in that they provide the framework for the deck of the boat and sometimes engine protection. Stringers are structural pieces which run inside the hull of the boat and are molded directly to the craft. They not only keep the boat structurally sound, but also allow a framework for other components to be attached to, much like the ribs within the human body. There are different types of stringers, providing different pros and cons.

Molded Grid: These are specifically molded and provide solid rides through rough seas due to their rigidity regardless of outside circumstances.

Engine Bearing Stringers: These are designed for the engine to sit within the stringers, acting as engine bearers. Stainless steel or aluminum caped are best, especially if they span from bulkhead to bulkhead, providing reinforcement and durability around the engine.

Pre-Formed: These are preformed logs with fiberglass woven around them and provide excellent speed due to their light weight. The lack of weight often has trouble in rough seas, however.

Foam Cored Fiberglass: These fiberglass stringers have foam inside and boast rot-free qualities. They are the most modern and highly used stringers on the market today.