Caulking

[Carvel-Sarah D]

Hi
Can someone recommend a more modern caulking material other than oakum or cotton? I just don't seem to have the skill to use them - it is an art!

I did a Google search but there are so many on the market I'm not sure - I'd like the opinion of others.

Thanks

Dave

36' cedar carvel built 1958
Twin 4107 Perkins

[PeteD]

Hi! Yes it is an art! I have a 50' spotted gum ex-trawler. My advice is to get a shipwright to do the caulking. Expensive I know but, with luck, once it's done you know it's done properly and hopefully you may never have to do it again. Good luck. p.s these boats were caulked with oakum/cotton and those products have stood the test of time!

[Pagie]

I watched it done in Ireland in August. Did not look very Hitech. Just used hemp and some black mastic stuff on top of that. I can find out the name of that stuff if needed. This wasn't a long job just on one low tide, only got half painted. http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2215/1540056954_8b8e21f77f_b.jpghttp://farm3.static.flickr.com/2393/1540056980_0ddf94897b_b.jpg

[PuFFaH]

Is that the pro caulker doing the repair in the pictures?
Nice bolster he is using to do the caulking :) did he use a lump hammer too?

I agree that getting a pro in to caulk your boat is the best option but please make sure he is what he reports to be first.

PuFF

[boatchippy]

I second the opinions of other posters to employ the services of a qualified shipwright with timber boat experience. Seems to be alot of 'slushies'(boatbuilding factory labourers) or 'deckies' passing themselves off as shipwrights and if they mention of using sikaflex, do yourself and your fine vessel a favour and just politely wave them on.

Cheers