ports and coachroof

[meldrum]

The coachroof sides on my waterwitch are 1" mahogany planks approx 18" wide. Does anyone know the best way to repair the cracks that have appeared in them over time. About 3 years ago I jigsawed allong the crack and injected epoxy resin with micro balloons and this lasted about 2 years before cracking again. As I am carryiing out a full refit this time I propose to use a router to cut along the cracks and insert graving pieces and fix bracing pieces on the inside, I think this will work this time , but whats the best thing to do with some of the tiny cracks that have appeared.thanks

 

[Seagreen]

Just dealt with a similar problem. I can only assume that the sides are drying out too much. Not much can be done beyond what you are doing, I don't think. I don't know whether Mahog shrinks like this with age or if its just a moisture content problem.

 

[Vitalba]

With regard to tiny cracks (and large ones) in the Iroko cabinsides of my boat I would proceeded as follows :
1.Clean the crack thoroughly with a trianglular scrapper made from an old swiss file.
2.Apply masking along the very edge of both sides of the crack. If you dont do this the filler will get in to the surface grain.
3.Mix up an epoxy (SP or West or similar) with microfibres and earth colours to "peanut butter"consistency and colour match.
4. Fill the crack slightly proud of the masking tape which should be removed as the epoxy starts to go off.
5.Once the epoxy has hardend it can be scrapped down to the original surface level and sanded.
Earth colours or pigments are packaged by Liberon and available from Axminster in Raw and Burnt Sienna and Umber etc.
If you are interested send me a PM so we can discuss further.
Vitalba

 

[Vitalba]

Also try "scraped" for "scrapped" !
Vitalba