How to Patch a Hole in a Wood Boat

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By T G Hardee
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This method works well for patching a small hole (up to about a couple of inches) in the botton of a plywood boat. I used this method on my own boat, and it lasted for the life of the boat. Follow these easy steps to to make the patch.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

waterproof wood glue
waterproof wood filler
small piece of plywood
tacks

Step 1

Make sure wood is completely dry before beginning this project. Keep it out of the water, rain, and weather until the patch is cured well, and new paint is totally dry.
Step 2

Clear away splinters and such from hole. Sand the inside and outside of the boat down to the bare wood where patch is to be made. Make sure to sand about 4 inches or more in every direction from the hole.
Step 3

Cut a square piece of 3/8 inch thick plywood (preferable marine plywood or treated) to cover the hole. Make sure the piece will cover the hole by at least 2 1/2 inches in all directions from edge of hole.
Step 4

Coat the inside area to receive the patch with waterproof wood glue. Coat the patch as well. Center the patch piece over the hole and tack down, using plenty of tacks all the around piece. Be sure the tacks are long enough to penetrate the boat well, but not protruding on the underside. Be sure you place the cut of plywood INSIDE so it is less likely to get snagged and torn away.
Step 5

Allow some drying time and go to work on the boat's bottom. Fill in the hole on the bottom side with waterproof wood filler. Smooth the wood filler out with a putty knife or other tool. Allow to dry, and repeat if necessary to make filler flush with wood surface.
Step 6

Refer to product labels for drying/curing times, and allow ample time before priming and painting pepaired area. Sand smooth and paint with a couple of generous coats of quality paint. Keep boat dry for at least 24 hours after painting, more if possible. Paint hardens with time as it cures.