As a new member, I have loads of questions regarding skin on frame construction.
I am building the PBK-22 15' Open Double Kayak as designed by Percy Blandford. I am building it per his Book Canoes and Canoeing. I have the frames cut out and finish sanded of marine 3/8" plywood. The open frames have been doubled using epoxie 24 hour cure and have turned out beautifully. Living in Northern New York State, I plan to purchase and cut the stringers and start building this spring.
1 - I have 1-1/4" #6 and #8 brass screws and was planning on using 24 hour epoxie as the bonding agent. Should I be using something else that is less rigid upon curing?
2 - I was planning on using 12 oz. ballistic nylon, but have been reading a lot about the hygroscopic nature of nylon to cause wrinkling of the skin. Would I minimize this if the inside of the kayak was also coated with 2 part urethane?
3 - Regarding the stringers... My local hardwoods supplier in Lake George, N.Y., has cedar that has absolutely horrible 45 degree grain and cedar isn't all that strong. While light, I can see all kinds of issues and scarf repairs using that material. However, The Douglas Fir is beautiful. Nice straight grain and very strong, although a little heavier than cedar. At $6.50 a foot, would I be better off using clear pine from our local lumber supplier?
4 - Anyone painting over the 2 part urethane? I want to have an opaque color rather than the semi transparent look of a non-painted SOF. Any recommendations here of a material that will stand up to intermittent water use without peeling or cracking?
Thank you for your patience. I would appreciate any comments you may have. Sincerely...Tom