Fairing a Carvel Planked Hull with Epoxy

[imported_Glenn]

Looking over one of last years WoodenBoat magazines, I saw an article on how to fair a carvel planked hull using thickened epoxy. The article can be found in issue #170 on page 24.

Couple questions come to mind after reading the article:
1) Why do they only apply the epoxy from the sheer down to the water-line? Why not the entire exterior of the hull?
2)Can the epoxy be problematic if and when a plank needs to be replaced? I am sure I could get the plank off but it would take a little extra persuasion.
3) The article uses a notched trowel. If this is used you will end up with a groved surface to sand down. If the trowel is held firm to the hull while applying the epoxy, won't you end up with valleys between each notch which will have next to no epoxy on it. I guess I am just curious as to how the notched surface will be planed down?

Can anyone give me feedback on their interpretation of the article or their experience using this method?

Thanks,
Glenn

[JimConlin]

Glenn wrote:
1) Why do they only apply the epoxy from the sheer down to the water-line? Why not the entire exterior of the hull?

This is a fair amount of work. To most folks, a finely faired bottom is not worth the effort.

2)Can the epoxy be problematic if and when a plank needs to be replaced? I am sure I could get the plank off but it would take a little extra persuasion.

The final thickness of the epoxy is small and the fairing putty is mixed light enough that it has no strength to speak of.

3) The article uses a notched trowel. If this is used you will end up with a groved surface to sand down. If the trowel is held firm to the hull while applying the epoxy, won't you end up with valleys between each notch which will have next to no epoxy on it. I guess I am just curious as to how the notched surface will be planed down?

The benefits of the notched trowel are that the bog is applied in a controlled thickness and that it's less work to sand 'corduroy' than solid bog to a fair contour. Also, less material ends up as dust. Yes, when you've reached a fair surface in the 'corduroy', you need to fill the grooves and sand again lightly. This step is quick.

[ 02-02-2004, 11:10 PM: Message edited by: JimConlin ]