[TowerTalk] Fiberglass UV

[Joe Subich, K4IK]

> From: WD4K
> Sent: Monday, March 22, 2004 11:52 PM
> 
> I question if steppir has any miracle to protect the 
> fiberglass..what I do know is after boating for over 30 
> years, nothing I have ever seen will protect the fiberglass 
> antenna from UV damage,wind/sand blasting,acid rain and 
> constant vibration and movement. 

> That record is not reassuring if you compare fiberglass in 
> the air for 20 years vs aluminum. We know about aluminum, we 
> gamble and hope with fiberglass.

Nonsense ... I've seen commercial fiberglass antennas last 
for 10+ years.  If I needed to do so I could renew A SteppIR 
(even a four element antenna) for less than $250 (eight ESTs at 
$30 each).  $25 per year of use ... that's a bargain.  I've 
spent more than that repairing aluminum antennas that weren't 
10 years old. 

BTW, you might be surprised what the right coatings can do. 

73, 

   ... Joe, K4IK