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EspaƱol
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Closing up
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Finishing
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Fiberglass for use with epoxy comes in a large variety of weaves, weights, and sizes.
I used the lightest woven 'cloth' I found. This was near the 4 - 6 ounce considered optimum by several sources. (250 gr/m2)
The length needed depends on the width available. It's quite ok to slightly rotate the cloth. This way it's possible to save length by cutting out the two largest pieces partly 'overlapping'. On the other hand, if you cannot obtain glass tape (like me), you'll need extra glass to cut them yourself. When cutting the cloth to cover the deck and bottom, leave at least 5 cm all around.
HINT: when the epoxy has almost hardened, using a sharp knife, cut through the tape (see photos), and use the tape to remove the cut cloth. That way, the border will be neatly cut. Don't forget the cloth has to cover the sheer (border) of the kayak, leave at least 3 cm!
Of course, before covering the deck, it's necessary to make the final
decision on the size. Check [WWW::link abert.en.php "the next page"]
for the solution I adopted. Roam the 'net to find other ideas...
Then cover the deck. The double covering of the deck-to-bottom joint
will make a solid union.
(c) John Coppens ON6JC/LW3HAZ |