> I am building a Kayak and am using the information in the Panache building
> plans as a guide. I have built a strongback as per the plans. I have
> planked the hull and am ready to fiberglass, My problem is that I do not
> have enough time to finish the boat before I go

> south for the Winter. My first question is. Should I fiberglass the hull?
> and leave it untill I return in the Spring? How will this affect the wood
> on the inside of the hull? Another Question. Can I Instead of glassing the
> hull, at this time. Can I take the Kayak off the strongback Turn it over
> and plank the deck?. How will this affect the hull? will it distort? I
> need HELP (First time builder)

Do asa much as you can before knocking off for the winter. At least get a coat of epoxy resin onto the outside of the hull. This will seal that side of the wood, penetrate some seams and help give a moistureproof bond to the strips.

If you have the time, and materials, put a layer of glass cloth over the hull the next day with one coat of resin. This will keep the strips together when you pull the hull off of the strongback.

Don't take the hull off the strongback unless you have done this much. It is not work the trouble. If you don't have the time to do this, or do not have the materials at hand NOW, then store the glued up hull on the strongback over the winter. Keep it dry. Inside a garage, shed or barn would be good. If the roof might leak on it, cover it with a tarp, too.

If you have enough time, fiberglass the outside, pull the hull off the strongback, and seal the inside with epoxy. When you get back to it next year it will be all ready and waiting for the deck.

Paul Jacobson