Thickness for Under Skinning

[mikeherb]

Need your help.

I saw the recent thread about underskinning and 16 GA aluminum was used.

How does this compare to .063 (1/16") thick 5052 aluminum? Is this a good grade? Can I go thinner or thicker?

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks.

SDB

[dahogman]

I had .080 on mine and it was fine. I used mine on the Mississippi river and it can get a little rough. I would definitly not go any thinner than .063, 5052 Aluminium will be fine. I don't know how you plan to use your boat. I think you will be fine just make sure to use plenty of fasteners and work from one side to the other on the aluminium, or from the center out equally on each side. This will help you avoid the aluminium from popping after you complete the project.