What Materials Compose a Skeeter Composite Transom?

By no means are wooden boats being pushed aside by those made of composites; however, Skeeter was one of the first manufacturers to make the switch and others have followed suit. Composite is a term often used for any non-wood material such as fiberglass, injected foam, and aluminum. Recognizing the materials used in the construction of your Skeeter boat ensures it is properly cared for and satisfies your boating needs.

  1. Transom Materials

    • One primary method of composite construction Skeeter uses in the building of its boats for the transom, as well as the stringers and floor, are composites first introduced by the aerospace industry. According to Skeeter Manufacturing, the strongest hull in the industry is constructed of an aerospace derivative material referred to as Ex-Cel composites. For more advanced models, Skeeter adds additional composite materials for even sturdier boats.

    Additional Transom Materials

    • Specifically used for Skeeter's i-Class and ZX boats, Skeeter increased the boat's strength by adding additional layers of composite materials beyond the Ex-Cel composites. For these two lines of boats, Skeeter uses an aluminum torque transfer system on the transom and stringers. This is accomplished using high-test structural aluminum (from the aircraft industry), and adhering it to the Ex-Cel transom. Skeeter claims this process removes the stress from the sides, deck and transom resulting in a sturdier, smoother ride.

    Floors

    • In addition to the Ex-Cel floors used in the manufacture of some models, Skeeter also builds boats with floors using composites, comprised of PVC crosslinked foam. Somewhat unique to Skeeter, the composite foam is all one solid piece. The PVC crosslinked foam is sandwiched between layers of fiberglass for additional rigidity.

    Finishing and Decks

    • Skeeter boats are finished using a two-step process. The first step includes applying a polyflake finish, using a "dry flake" system. This polyflake composite is sprayed before the Armorcoat clear gel top coat (the second step in the process), and prevents the polyflake composite from moving through the clear coat for a more durable finish. Decks are made of aluminum for additional support.