Filler Season Time?

[Larry S]

I just finished re-canvasing a 1937 18' Old Town Guide. I know that the filler must season for a month or more, but I REALLY want the boat finished by August 4th. I live in the Central Valley of California. The weather here this time of year is 90 - 100 degrees with very low humidity.

So, the question is - Can I season the canoe for two weeks instead of the recommended four to six? I have a lot of work in this boat and would rather miss my deadline than mess it up.

Larry S.

 

[Dave Wermuth]

My guess is that it probably would be cured in two weeks under those conditions, assuming it's a traditional filler. It would be like a blackboard to your fingernail. But, it depends on the filler. I use a latex exterior primer and it cures in a couple days. I can put two or three coats very thinly on in one day.

 

[Mark Adams]

Hi Larry,

I'm in Reno, even drier than you, and it still takes about 4 weeks. A proper cure on the filler IS NOT something you want to skip over. The only thing I can recommend is patience. I just pulled a boat out that I filled 5 weeks ago, and it is pretty much good to go. It was still a little soft last week at this time.


Shoot me a PM, and I'd be happy to give you my #. We can yak canoes!

Mark

 

[Larry S]

Thanks Dave and Mark. i will blow off the self imposed deadline and let it cure four - six weeks, whatever it takes. I now have another question about the keel, but I will start a new thread for that.

Larry S