Epoxy Layup Schedule?

[guitarkev77]

Hi guys,

I am getting ready to order materials to start the rebuild on my old boat. I have read everything I can get my hands on about poly resin fiberglassing, but I am toying with the idea of using epoxy. I have read that mat is not necessary when using epoxy. So then I guess cloth? What would be the typical layup schedule for a structural rebuild using epoxy (weights/types of glass)? I am redoing the transom, stringers, and deck on an old 60's runabout.

Thanks!
-Kevin

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: Epoxy Layup Schedule?

Not saying you can't but... Your boat is made from poly and Epoxy IMHO is overkill. Poly will for sure make her good as new and is a lot less expensive. To answer your questions. No mat with epoxy. Just cloth. 2 layers of 17 oz biaxial cloth will be plenty for Transom and stingers. Deck.. just 2 coats of epoxy and on layer of 6oz cloth to finish it. US composiites has a 3:1 mix epoxy that I'd recommend.

 

[guitarkev77]

Re: Epoxy Layup Schedule?

Thanks for the info, Woodonglass! Like I said, I am still just kicking the idea around and trying to figure out different prices. My boat is only a 16', so I don't need a huge amount of material. From reading all of the posts here on the forum, it sounds like mat soaks up a ton of resin. If this step is left out, it would seem that an epoxy rebuild would use less resin. If I factor in the hazardous materials costs into the price of each 5 gallon can (which epoxy doesn't have), it seems like the rebuild prices would be somewhat close to each other. I am a woodworker by trade, but I am a noob when it comes to fiberglassing. Would making peanut butter using epoxy be similar to using poly?

 

[guitarkev77]

Re: Epoxy Layup Schedule?

Huh... Well, I guess after adding it up, it's about a $300 difference. That is pretty substantial. Poly it is!