: We tape the keel and chine inside and out and that's it. Actually we cut
: cloth diagonally to make strips, don't proper tape. Done this way, the
: edges don't fray and you get maximum strength as all the strands go across
: the joins.

: Why? We never do. It just adds weight and makes repairs more difficult.

: Remember that is the way I've been doing it since 1985. My partner's kayak is
: a decade old, no problems, she has had to varnish the deck again, that's a
: refit once every 5 years and yes, it did look like it really needed it but
: the previous varnishing was a bit thin. Use? We're just back from a 4 day
: winter trip so it gets regular all year use.

: I've recently changed from my decade old kayak to the new one, mainly because
: it is a new design, the old one, tortured ply, glass only on the keel and
: deck/sides joins, will still get some use.

: Alex

Alex,
What thickness ply is you hull and deck made of.
Im starting my Pax 18 soon and was considering taped seams only with 1/8 ply.
Day boat only,no surf work .

Thanks Bris Paul