Glassing True North

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Mike W
Posts: 2
Joined: Thu Sep 10, 2009 8:12 pm

Glassing True North

Post by Mike W »

I am planning on building a True North XPD this winter. I am 6'3" and weigh
290. I have never built a kayak before, and I have concerns about the strength
of a 1/4" cedar stripped kayak sandwiched between 6 ounce fiberglass.
Is a single layer of fiberglass sufficient to support my weight, or should I
add a second layer?
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frugal
Posts: 66
Joined: Tue Jan 22, 2008 12:54 pm
Location: Oshawa, ON

Post by frugal »

In the front section of Kayakcraft there is a discussion of the strength of materials. As I recall the tests were done to 300-400 lbs on a square foot of material. I don't have it in front of me but I'd say you have nothing to worry about.
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Jim Dodd
Posts: 1359
Joined: Wed Feb 08, 2006 11:08 pm
Location: Iowa

Post by Jim Dodd »

Nothing wrong with an extra layer !
It will stiffen the hull, and add abrasion resistance, if put on the outside.
The extra cost and weight are the only downside.
I double layer my canoe bottoms !
Good luck
Jim
Keep your paddle wet and your seat dry!
Mike W
Posts: 2
Joined: Thu Sep 10, 2009 8:12 pm

Post by Mike W »

Thanks for the advise. Still undecided on one or two layers, but a am looking forward to getting started. Just need to get a few more tools first.
Rehd Brown
Posts: 148
Joined: Sat Sep 08, 2007 8:23 pm
Location: Fresno, California

Post by Rehd Brown »

Mike

You could double up on a lighter weight cloth for added strength. I have used 3.25oz satin weave cloth and layed it on in apposing angles ( X ) to keep the weight down and strength higher. Satin weave takes less epoxy than standard weave, takes a little more effort to Wet-Out, should give you more strength for the buck than a single 6oz. layer, but, will cost you less and keep you lighter than two layers of 6oz.
Just my humble opinion. ( I'm 6'3" and tip the scales at 275 )

Give it some thought and ask those more experienced than I for input.


Rehd
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