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Construction question

Posted: Thu Apr 04, 2013 7:00 am
by Richardson
Hi all I have been through the forums and looking at all the build logs it has made me want to start one of my own however I have some questions.

I am looking at the Sabalo 12' as space is a bit of an issue for the build but what seams to be even more of an issue if the materials after looking around at the price of 4mm marine ply it is way out of budget shipping will cost more than the wood and I couldn't check it for defects before I buy it. The only other ply I can get is 4mm or 5.5mm WBP exterior ply I have seen many people have used this without any problem but also seen a few that have had issues with wood splitting.


1st. is if I do a build should I use 5.5mm or will 4mm WBP be ok.

2nd. would a Sabalo 12' be a good choice for me I want it more for coastal sea fishing than anything else but in my area the water is usually choppy waves once you get out of the harbour with a bit of wind on a normal day. I have limited space but I could do the build at my sisters if Sabalo 15' would be suited better.

3rd. is there any way to limit wood splits could I lightly epoxy the ply prior to cutting/bending it into shape.

I have a few more questions but I will stick with the main 3 for now.

I don't plan on starting any build for at least a month yet would like to sort of the BOM first and have everything ready to go.

Thanks for any help.

Re: Construction question

Posted: Thu Apr 04, 2013 11:48 am
by jem
Richardson wrote:
1st. is if I do a build should I use 5.5mm or will 4mm WBP be ok.

It depends on the quality of the wood. If it's from Home Depot or Lowes, the outer ply is likely paper thin and the inner plies are made from brittle hardwood. You can build with it but it needs to be covered inside and out with cloth.
Richardson wrote: 2nd. would a Sabalo 12' be a good choice for me I want it more for coastal sea fishing than anything else but in my area the water is usually choppy waves once you get out of the harbour with a bit of wind on a normal day. I have limited space but I could do the build at my sisters if Sabalo 15' would be suited better.
Depends on your payload. Both sizes can handle the chop. The 15 will hold a straight line better and be faster.
Richardson wrote:3rd. is there any way to limit wood splits could I lightly epoxy the ply prior to cutting/bending it into shape.
That would help some. But the quality of the wood will play a bigger factor.