canvas application on gunwale

[Aravenguide]

Hey folks,
Quick question on canvas. On my 1914 OT charles river with closed and capped gunwales. When I pulled the old canvas it was tacked on top of the gunwales and I am tempted to do so with this rebuild. Is there any reason not to?

When done the edge will be covered by the top cap.

 

[Gil Cramer]

I would not fasten the canvas on top of the gunwales. It will trap more water between the gunwale and the canvas and contribute to rot.

 

[JClearwater]

It certainly never left the factory like that. I would install canvas in the normal manner cutting off the excess at the top edge of the planking after the filler has cured and you have the paint on.