Seepage question

[Cary]

I just finished (well, nearly finished) first SOF boat (Firefly).  I'm pretty sure I heated the polyester well enough and the skin is tight as a drum.  I put 3 coats of oil based marine paint on the skin.  With some trepidation I launched it the other night.  I was pleased with the boat performance in terms of tracking and speed.  I got the boat out of the water and wasn't too surprised to have some water in the boat, but I was surprised that the water seeped out from the chines, where there wasn't a seam.

 

My questions are these: 1) Should I have been surprised that there is to be seepage (presumably going both ways0 coming through the non-sewn portions of the painted skin? 2) Is there something I can and should do to stop it or slow it down? 

 

I do not (as of yet) have float bags in it, but living on Lake Superior I need to think seriously about it.

 

Thanks in advance.

 

Cary

[Kudzu]

You just need another coat of paint. Did you you use a flat or semi-gloss? Or latex? They seem to need more coats of paint than a good oil based. But if it is seeping it just not completely sealed. 

 

Boat looks good!

[DURRETTD]

Rumor has it that Lake Superior is COLD. If you capsize or ship water over the gunwale, you'll need to get the water back where it belongs before you are incapacitated by hypothermia. Float bags are necessary! Please, buy or build float bags before you put you boat in the water again!

[Cary]

Thanks for the reply!  I have 3 coats of Rust-oleum oil based Marine Paint gloss.  I will try another coat.  I wonder what you think of putting an oil based polyurethane clear gloss on?

 

Yes, Lake Superior is cold, but it makes for some exciting paddling.  We also have many inland lakes that warm up a bit.  Right now the color change is just past peak and we have already had snow flurries.  Embrace what you got!

[Kudzu]

I would just put another coat of whatever I used. No compatibility issues that way. But that is not to say it wouldn't work.

Now, You need to read up on cold water immersion before you take it so lightly. At least it sounds like you are. Cold water kills QUICKLY! Even a short dip can leave your limb stiff and unable to get back in the boat, then you eventually drown. It is not something to take lightly! If you don't believe it just take a swim and see how long you can function.

I paddle year round but I paddle wearing a dry suit and proper clothes underneath. I wear neoprene mittens (don't waste money on gloves!!). And I rarely paddle without a partner that knows rescue techniques. I am working on getting a consistent roll before winter. Yes this is lecture. When it comes to safety, especially cold water, I make no apology.

[Cary]

Sorry,didn't mean to sound flippant. I've been kayaking Lake Superior for 20 years, both in purchased boats and ones I've made (I've built a few wooden kayaks, a SUP, and a rowing shell, all used on the big lake, which is my front yard). I've taken classes on rescue, can do self rescue, and used to roll ( unfortunately spine issues stopped that). I wear clothes appropriate for the weather, but I don't let cold weather stop me (crazy waves yes, but just cold temps no).

Got 4th coat on and will retest. Thanks for all the advice.

Cary