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The traditional mastic tape is still the best way. Using silicone sealants and the like does not seem to work and is largely the cause of water ingress in the skins.

If you use silicone, when you tighten up the deck fitting most of the product is squeezed out and the membrane left is not sufficient to keep a water tight seal for very long.

The movement between the deck fitting and the fibreglass, due to vibration, heat and the boats general movement, is far greater than you imagine.

Mastic tape remains pliable for years coping with the natural stresses.