> Regretably there are some things that must take priority over boat
> building. Solve your humidity problems before you start building a boat. A
> damp basement leads to mold and rot, and attracts insects -- conditions
> that are not good for your home or your health. If a dehumidifier dries
> things out then you have a simple cure. The cost of electricity to run one
> of these is much less than the cost of repairing structural damage. If the
> water comes into your basement faster than a dehumidifier can remove it,
> then you must discover the source of the moisture and repair or eliminate
> the problem.

> Once you get rid of the moisture problem and have a nice place to work
> your questions about working in moist conditions become moot.

> Now, the questions come from me: Where will you be storing the boat after
> it is finished, and where will you be applying the varnish and epoxy? If
> you answer to these questions is ``Outside'' then you can probably glue up
> the strips under any moisture conditions that prevail, as long as you move
> the whole project (stongback and all) outside and let it sit there and dry
> out for a few days before putting on the exterior glass cloth. Then, let
> it dry a bit more before you put on the interior glass cloth.

> Or, build it outside in the first place. Gluing and stapling strips is not
> a noisy job, so even if you work at night under a few yard lights the
> neighbors shouldn't complain.

> Hope this helps

> Paul G. Jacobson, (from Illinois)

> not to be confused with the other Paul Jacobson (from Minnesota) By the
> way, it is easy to tell the difference between us. I'm the handsome one on
> the right, and besides, I'm going to start using my middle initial.

Paul, Thanks for the clarification between you and me. We've been here before. I agree totally with your advice on fixing the problem, if you can. Some fixes can be very easy and inexpensive, like making sure the ground slopes away from your foundation, or extending downspouts. Other times you're just cursed, and a sump pump is warranted.

Paul (Minnesota) Jacobson