How to Prepare the Hull for Fiberglassing
"I'm getting ready to apply the fiberglass to my boat and I have misplaced my copy of Canoecraft. I remember reading something about applying some type of solvent to the hull and letting it dry prior to laying on the glass."
A customer wrote in with this question last week, and we thought we'd tackle it in this week's blog post.
First, we'd recommend finding that copy of Canoecraft! Epoxying is a critical stage, and the difference between a beautiful job and a messy one will haunt you. Follow epoxy instructions closely, and keep a reference on hand.
It's true, however, that you want to use a solvent beforehand. Wipe the hull with a clean cloth and a bit of lacquer thinner. A slightly dampened rag will take the rest of the sawdust off - no need to soak the boat. This step is really just to pick up whatever particulate you haven't been able to blow off (e.g. with an air compressor).
Hope that helps anyone wondering the same thing. Again, keep a reference handy, and don't rush it. Careful prep will pay off in the long run.
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