Catalina 36 International Association

By Steven Jones

As many have posted over the winter, I too refinished my companionway steps of my C36 2164. I encountered the same problems as others, with splotches where it seems as though the finish did not absorb evenly. After I finally got the finish looking adequate, I took the suggestion of another list posting from last winter, where the author used inserted non skid pieces, after routing out the steps.

Having woodwork experience and the correct tools (mainly a router & correct bit), I fabricated a guide template for the router to cut out a perfect shape for the non skid pads. After routing (routering?), I applied two coats of finish to this cut out area to seal the wood, let dry, sanded to roughen the surface, and inserted the pre-cut non skid pieces. Worked super.

I used Lewmar Treadmaster Non Skid Step & Deck Pads, White Sand color, from West Marine. I cut them to shape using a table saw to ensure straight edges, sanded the edges to remove burrs and slightly round over the vertical edges, cut a radius on the corners, removed the adhesive backing, then used a piece of wood dowel to use as a pressure roller. (The rubber treads will deform to accommodate a slight over-cut on the treads).

I have had three multi-day trips to Catalina Island, going up and down these stairs, even with wet trunks. Much better traction when wet and just a better, more secure feeling when descending.

Steven Jones
C36 2164 Malena, Seal Beach CA, C36 IA Fleet 2
stevengjones@yahoo.com