Fiberglass canoe layup

Hi

Got myself a 15ft Canadian canoe mould and was wondering of a layup schedule. I have experience with Fiberglass as I've build a few boats from moulds and done numerous repairs. Not really wanting a mixed schedule if possible. I was thinking a layer of gel then 3 layers of 450gsm matt. What's your thoughts?

 

Here's a photo

 

Sounds about right, dont know if you have a deck mold too. You're going to need a batten keel glassed over and seat risers glassed in too. That sheerline will need some help as well if there's no deck molding & of course some buoyancy tanks..

 

40 ounces of CSM is heavy, though not uncommon on a 'glass canoe, if speed of production is desired. I'd suggest two layers of 1208, mat down over the gel, maybe with a 4 - 6 ounce (135 - 200 GSM) cloth as the exposed layer for finish. Maybe some coremat down first, then the combo fabrics.

 

Definitely worth using a fine tissue or cloth next to the gelcoat, unless you want a lot of 'imprinting' a bit later on. Even pro stuff will sink after a couple of years but only by a minute fraction. Definitely do not use as heavy as 450gsm next to the surface, 200gsm is usually OK'ish or a real fine tissue first, then 200gsm. Also check compatibility of the cloths/tissues with the resins. Not all are compatible with both epoxy and polyester, assuming the latter for your build.