Each Hewescraft boat meets or exceeds U.S. and Canadian Coast Guard flotation requirements, and we go an extra step by installing recoverable flotation in boats over 20’, although none is required. Every Hewescraft hull is water tested in our factory — something many boat manufacturers cannot claim. Still, we wouldn’t have it any other way. Your boat’s most important job is to keep your family safe on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What type of flotation foam does Hewescraft use?
We use a dense, closed-cell polyurethane foam in all Hewescraft boats. This type of foam is highly resistant to gasoline and oil and meets, or exceeds, all Coast Guard regulations for flotation foam.
Can I purchase a boat without foam?
No. All Hewescraft boats have the safety feature of foam flotation added during the build process. Safety is our #1 priority.
I have heard that Coast Guard regulations only require flotation in boats of less than 20 feet in length. Why do Hewescraft boats longer than 20 feet in length also have flotation foam?
It is true that Coast Guard regulations require boats 20 feet and under to float to a minimum requirement if they are filled with water. Hewescraft’s commitment to safety, and our more than 70 years of experience, have taught us that foam flotation in boats of all lengths saves lives. So, although we are not required to do so, Hewescraft installs foam in every boat, no matter the size.
Does the foam provide any structural support?
No. The foam in our boats is strictly in place to provide flotation in case of an on-the-water accident. An added benefit is that the foam provides enhanced sound-dampening and insulation throughout the hull.
I hear you use foam in place of aluminum because it is cheaper.
No, we do not. The process and material costs of installing foam far exceed the cost of simply using a non-foamed aluminum structure. Also, our carefully engineered heavy-gauge construction methods are what give every Hewescraft such a rigid and durable hull. Flotation foam does not provide a significant structural strength benefit to the hull.
Why don’t you simply use extruded polystyrene foam (Styrofoam) or extruded polystyrene resin (rigid pink / blue board) in your boats?
Both materials work well for flotation. However, they do not meet the performance specifications necessary to pass Coast Guard regulations for a Hewescraft boat.
Can I use or replace my existing foam with extruded polystyrene foam (Styrofoam) or extruded polystyrene resin (rigid pink / blue board)?
We strongly recommend that you do not remove or replace the BASF closed-cell foam with any other material. Please be aware that gasoline dissolves polystyrene, breaking it down and letting the air within it escape. Once polystyrene foam has been effected in this way, it no longer provides any flotation value.
What should I do if I believe the flotation foam in my Hewescraft has
been compromised?
If you believe your flotation foam has soaked up so much water that your boat would no longer float were it filled with water, please contact your dealer for a foam evaluation.
Our Mission
Our mission is to design, build, and market the safest, most functional aluminum fishing boat.
Foam and Floor Best Practices
Like a home, automobile, or other outdoor equipment, boats require regular care and maintenance
Proper Storage
When not in use, we recommend covering the boat. Will your boat be moored or stored outside for long periods of time? If so, we recommend a stern cover or full boat cover.
Washdown Use
Washdowns should be used sparingly on wood decks.
Care of wood floors
Please do not pressure wash the interior of your boat. We recommend cleaning the deck like a hard surface in a home. Avoid flooding the fishing cockpit with water and towel dry all surfaces when finished. Do not make any penetrations into a wood deck for pedestals, accessories, or any other aftermarket equipment. If a wood deck is removed, apply a new bead of silicone along the perimeter of each floorboard.
Inspect fishing deck annually
Pull two outer-aft deck panels and inspect the surface of the foam. It is possible that you will find a 1/2”-layer of water at the top. Allow the area to dry as well as the wood deck. The typical dry time is 48 hours but may be longer due to temperature and moisture content. Re-seal the perimeter of each floorboard.
