: Any advice on the pros and cons of building the coaming before fiberglassing
: the deck of an expedition single would be appreciated.I am concerned about
: the glass creasing during the transition to vertical and having to cut the
: cloth to fit at the last minute when it is wet.My tendancy is to
: fiberglass first, then build the coaming, as this is a first time kayak -
: but I would prefer to build the coaming and then fiberglass for a stronger
: bond.What say you from experience?

Hey Les,

I glassed the deck, recess and coaming all together at the same time, but, the glass had to be split up the side of the coaming in several areas because as it went up the side of the coaming it pulled tight causing wrinkles (no problem going from horizontal to vertical as I had a nice fillet at the recess/coaming joint).I then added a couple more 6oz layers from the top of the coaming back down onto the deck. I followed the same procedure on the inside of the deck. Then after I laminated the lip onto the coaming, I added two layers of 6oz glass from the bottom inside edge of the coaming over the lip and ended in the curve of the fillet.

Most of the experienced builders here would probably consider this "overkill" and it does add weight. I'd just hate to have to go back and re-do anything in this area as it looks like it could get somewhat "involved". And the cockpit area does support most if not all of your weight during entry and exit. But keep in mind, I'm working on boat number two and some of these people have probably lost count! I guess its just a matter of what you want for YOUR boat.

Happy Building.

Charles