Epoxy and fiberglass question.....

[Colorado04]

I would like to build a wooden Jon boat for a first project using standard lumber. I was wondering if I could get away with using automotive epoxy and fiberglass to strengthen the boat. I realize that they make marine grade meterial for a reason but I would like to keep the cost as low as possible just incase this is a disaster.<br /><br />Thanks for any advice...

 

[Wimperdink]

Re: Epoxy and fiberglass question.....

yes you can use the polyester resin you find in the auto parts store.<br />

 

[Colorado04]

Re: Epoxy and fiberglass question.....

Thanks...it'll save me a lot of grief.

 

[fishingdan]

Re: Epoxy and fiberglass question.....

What boat design are you planning to build? You should check to see what the designer specifies. Polyester resin has different properties than Epoxy resin.

 

[Mark42]

Re: Epoxy and fiberglass question.....

If the boat will be sitting in the water 24/7, then I would use the best materials around. But if the boat will just be used for a few hours at a time, or even a few days at a time then sit on dry land for days or weeks, the Bondo brand will work. Although you will be able to buy quality resin by the gallon at a supplier on the net for less than what you get at the home center or auto parts store.<br /><br />I say that because short term exposure to the water is not going to promote water infiltration or absorbsion into the polyester resin like a boat that sits for weeks on end in the water. So even the cheapest quality resin will work, because even if there is some absorption of water into the resin, it will be so minute as to evaporate out again while the boat sits on dry ground. <br /><br />Just my two cents.

 

[crab bait]

Re: Epoxy and fiberglass question.....

poly resin is not a glue an should never be used as a glue..