MGC
Scrapmaker
Hi Steve,
First, Benson is right about proper storage.
Most of us will replace steel nails that we need to remove with bronze or silicon bronze equivalents.
We've all seen decay happen from outside storage under a tarp. I've wrecked a few boats that way and since learned to keep fewer of them if I can't offer better storage.
Varnish applied generously on the new wood is a simple and effective preventative. For example most builders did not varnish the underside of the original rails. Adding varnish keeps them from rotting. The undersides of the the decks and the stem tips were also bare wood on most hulls.
You will really love the process of restoring your canoe. Good Luck!
First, Benson is right about proper storage.
Most of us will replace steel nails that we need to remove with bronze or silicon bronze equivalents.
We've all seen decay happen from outside storage under a tarp. I've wrecked a few boats that way and since learned to keep fewer of them if I can't offer better storage.
Varnish applied generously on the new wood is a simple and effective preventative. For example most builders did not varnish the underside of the original rails. Adding varnish keeps them from rotting. The undersides of the the decks and the stem tips were also bare wood on most hulls.
You will really love the process of restoring your canoe. Good Luck!
