How to Attach Plywood to a Boat Hull
When the plywood that is used for the hull of your boat begins to deteriorate, you will need to repair or replace it. This will happen when the waterproof layer or coating that is on the plywood begins to wear away over time. Replacing a section of the hull will require you to remove the damaged section of plywood and attach a new sheet of plywood to the boat. To tackle this job, you will need materials that you can find at your local home improvement store.
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Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Chalk line
- Circular saw
- Sandpaper
- Marine plywood
- Screws
- Power drill
- Caulk
- Marine epoxy
Instructions
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1
Measure the width and height of the area that you need to repair with the tape measure. Make cut marks on the side of the hull with the pencil. If a pencil does not work, make an outline with the chalk line.
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2
Set the depth of the circular saw to the width of the plywood that is used for the hull. This will be either 3/4 or 1/2 an inch. Cut around the outline on the hull. Take the section of plywood off the hull and set it aside.
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3
Smooth any rough edges of the plywood on the boat with the sandpaper.
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4
Transfer the width and height of the repair area to a new piece of marine plywood. Make cut lines with the pencil. Cut the plywood to size with the circular saw.
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5
Smooth the rough edges of the new piece of plywood with the sandpaper.
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6
Set the piece of plywood on the hull and secure it to the ribs with screws, using the power drill. Apply caulk or marine epoxy to the seams. Allow 12 hours for the caulk or epoxy to completely dry.
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7
Text the repair for leaks by putting the boat in the water.
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Tips & Warnings
Be sure to remove any screws that are on the pencil or chalk line so you do not damage the blade on the saw.
A router can also be used to cut the plywood section out the hull.
