: I realize that there are many variables that enter into this but I have been
: debating with myself the need for more than one layer of cloth on the
: outside hull. I am building a 'Cape Ann' for frequent but casual
: recreational use. It won't see a lot of hard use (rocks), mainly just the
: normal wear and tear at the beach (which can be considerable even tho I
: try to be careful). I am using the 5oz cloth from RAKA. The first layer
: goes on tonite.
: How much weight will one more layer of glass add to the kayak?
: Is only one layer just too weak?
: If weight is not a big factor, I will go with two layers. I would sure
: appreciate the opinions of the board.

Why bother with the second layer at this time? Go with one layer now an get the boat launched.

Paddle it without varnish for a few weeks or a month. If you take just a bit of care to cover it when it is stored, UV won't hurt it a bit in that short of a time.

If, after a few weeks of paddling you find that you have a pattern of scrapes, then you can add a second layer of glass cloth that covers the areas YOU tend to abuse. For some people this would be the side of the boat that rubs against a stone dock. For others, it is the center of the boat, which scrapes bottom on shallow areas. And for others, still, it is the bow, which takes a beating when run into a beach.

But, if you protect your boat at launch and use it in water that is deeper than you sink down, you may never get a scratch on the bottom at all! So why waste the time and materials on extra fiberglassing?

Either way, whether you need extra protection or not, time will tell -- so just give things a little bit of time and they will sort themselves out.

After a few weeks you can do a light sanding to pull out any shallow scratches or blush that might have survived and then either put on more glass before varnishing or just put on your varnish.

Hope this helps.

PGJ