: Hi Kevin,
: Canvas wouldn't be as intrinsically strong as synthetics but it's
: quite durable. You can expect a lifespan from 5 to 15 years
: depending on storage and cleaning. Less if you bounce off rocks
: or sharp stuff a lot. :)

: With a Yost style, I might space the frames a bit closer, using
: extra ply frames or maybe a few bent ribs between frames. PVC is
: pretty dimensionally stable, nylon loosens slightly when
: damp/wet, polyester to a lesser degree (?) while canvas shrinks
: when wet and could pull in the stringers a bit in use. That
: would make the kayak look hungry after a paddle and frighten off
: onlookers. :D

: Mike Savage
: South West Cork

: Just to see if Kayaking was something i would enjoy," I think it's great by the way" , i chose a 8 mil poly reinforced tarp, and as luck would have it, i've already found out how rocks feel rubbing the bottom of the boat , this stuff tears pretty easy and i was thankful i had a roll of gorilla tape in a dry bag along with, now it's time for something more durable, would the exterior coating make a difference on how wet the canvas got? Might there also be a possibility of putting it on a little loose and wetting it to shrink it so it didn't look quite so gaunt? Kevin