cracked deck

[wingnut]

so im building a aeromarine xxx for a buddy. I started it a couple of years ago and never finished it. mostly just hung the hardware. when i was working on it i taped up all the edges and the ribs on the deck. so im back at it and i get the cowl mounted and i take the tape off to take a photo and there is a crack in the deck next to one of the ribs . the boats been in a cabinet in my shop the whole time and nothing has been on top but a towel. could this happen from being in the heat and the cold? im at a loss for why and i still need to break the news to my friend. any thoughts?

 

[Tom Foley]

Probably thick gel coat there and cracked from expansion / contraction . I would put a small piece of cloth to reinforce the area underneath .

 

[wingnut]

Thanks Tom, that's the only think i can come up with. I wouldn't mind it so much if it was my boat but as luck would have its a good friends. Good idea on the reinforcement.