This week's project: a DIY roof box for our narrowboat! Feeling under the weather didn't stop us from tackling this much-needed storage solution. Inspired by fellow narrowboaters, we planned a simple yet effective design using readily available materials. The goal was to maximize storage space on the roof, utilizing the area between the boat's rail and the solar panels, without hindering solar panel functionality. Our initial plan involved pre-treated decking boards, creating a sturdy box approximately 1.2 meters wide and two boards high.However, as often happens with DIY projects, unforeseen challenges emerged. A trip to the hardware store revealed a decking board shortage, forcing a temporary shift in focus. This unexpected setback led to a priority repair of a damp patch in the lounge, requiring the removal and replacement of soggy insulation. While the roof box will have to wait, the damp patch repair is a crucial step to maintaining the boat’s condition, a task we're tackling with a combination of practical repairs and aesthetic improvements. Stay tuned for updates on both projects!
Pros And Cons
- Can be built inexpensively using readily available materials (decking boards and plywood)
- Can be customized to fit specific space constraints
- Height can be adjusted to avoid interference with other equipment (e.g., solar panels)
- Requires DIY skills and time to construct
- Decking boards may not always be in stock at local stores
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A Week of Unwellness and DIY Inspiration
The week started off rough with post-vaccine symptoms – achy muscles and headaches were the main culprits. Despite feeling under the weather, the project continued! This spurred the idea for a DIY roof box solution.
The inspiration came from observing fellow narrowboat owners' storage solutions. Many used pre-treated decking boards, leading to the decision to replicate this approach for our own boat.
Designing the Narrowboat Roof Box
Measurements were taken to ensure a perfect fit. The space available between the boat's rail and the end of the roof was approximately 1.2 meters, perfectly suited for standard 2.4-meter decking boards.
The plan involved constructing a box two boards high, reaching just below the solar panels for easy access without removal. This would create ample storage without compromising the solar panels' functionality.
Trip to B&Q and Unexpected Purchases
A trip to B&Q was planned to purchase the necessary materials – pre-treated decking boards and plywood. Unfortunately, decking boards were out of stock, a common issue.
However, the trip wasn't entirely fruitless. Essential items, like a TV aerial socket and replacement insulation for a damp patch in the lounge, were purchased.
The unexpected damp patch repair became a priority. The old insulation was removed and new insulation will be installed once the area is thoroughly dry.
Damp Patch Repair and Future Plans
The damp patch repair involves replacing the soggy insulation with new rock wool-like material. The process is underway, with drying as the current focus before re-insulating.
The repair process also includes plans for a more aesthetically pleasing solution, likely a piece of wood to cover the hole once everything is dry and back in place.
Additional decorative elements might be added to blend the repair seamlessly with the existing ceiling.
Conclusion: DIY Narrowboat Life
The project highlights the challenges and rewards of DIY narrowboat life. While setbacks like stock shortages occur, resourcefulness and adaptability are key to overcoming them.
The DIY approach offers cost savings compared to pre-made solutions. The focus remains on creating functional and visually appealing solutions tailored to the boat's specific needs.