Winter conditions...too cold for sanding???

[MB]

This question goes to anyone familar with woodworking in northern climates!

I have a mahogany motor boat which needs alot of sanding/scraping (even down to the wood)...I would like utilize the winter time (Finland, currently -10c)...then when it gets above freezing then I can start the varnishing work (summers here are VERY short, so need to be smart about the spring work)

My question is: If i start the sanding/scraping now (not knowing when it will be warm enough to varnish, maybe after 1month), by removing the current varnish is there a risk to damaging the wood as it would be unprotected for some time? The boat is outside, but under a winter shelter i built to keep snow/rain off.

Any comments/advice greatly appreciated!!

Martin

[Ron Williamson]

It has never been a problem for us,except, because the air is drier, the dust floats around more and static causes it to stick to clothing and vertical surfaces.
R

[seayou77]

Hardy sailor! If I were stripping varnish I'd be usind a heat gun, like a hairdryer. Be a slow slog in that temp.

[imported_chris]

go for it. I have done it, there is no reason not to, except that its cold on the worker. the hard work will warm you up.

[Bob Smalser]

Outdoor humidity generally gets lower with every degree of temperature drop.

Northern climate winters are dry and you should have no problems working under cover.

[ssor]

A bit of whatever varnish you plan to use, on a clean rag, worked in well makes a good tack rag. Just be sure to spread it out to dry when you finish with it. Spontaneous combustion has burned a lot of boats.