The hull of the Ericson 38 is constructed of a solid composite of fiberglass and resin, although some core material is used in some flat sections above the waterline to add stiffness without excessive weight.

The Ericson 38 utilizes an elaborate system of high strength fiberglass fabric and high-density foam to form a structural grid of transverse floors and longitudinal stringers. The grid is bonded to the hull throughout the bilge. Components such as keel, engine beds, mast step, structural bulkheads, and rigging loads are all connected to the grid, resulting in a very rigid and strong structure. 

The deck structure is a molded fiberglass composite with core throughout. There is a molded fiberglass toe rail eliminating the high maintenance and often leaky teak toe rail found on many cruising boats of this size and quality. The hull and deck are mechanically fastened as well as bonded with fiberglass cloth and resin effectively forming a monocoque structure. 

The decks are well laid out and feature substantial deck hardware that is well secured with backing plates. There is an anchor locker forward, and rigging shrouds are well inboard for easy passage fore and aft. There is a T-shaped cockpit with 36" destroyer wheel, and, while the cockpit area is suitably sized, the foot well is a bit cramped in order to provide space for the quarter berth cabin below. 

These excerpt form SpinSheet Publising 2018