> I am planning on building a new boat. I now live in the south and am
> expecting to take some trips in shallow tidal flat areas with lots of
> oyster beds. I know this can be real nasty on boat bottoms and am
> wondering whether or not I should reinforce bottom with an extra layer of
> fiberglass. Another option might be to use some thicker fiberglass, or
> maybe not sand the fiberglass quite so thin. Would double glass be useful.
> If so, how would I do this. I was thinking one layer on bottom, then sand.
> Then another draping layer over bottom and sides. Thanks for any
> suggestions.

> Dave

Mac McCarthy, in his book, FEATHERWEIGHT BOATBUILDING, suggests masking off the bottom and coating the area with a couple coats of epoxy mixed with aluminum or graphite powder (graphite powder is black = HOT when you cartop the boat!). This treatment is done after the hull has been 'glassed. He lives and paddles in Fl. and has to deal with oyster beds too. An extra layer of 'glass on the bottom wouldn't hurt either. I guess you just have to weigh the importance of durability vs weight with regard to your own requirements. garland