Caulking methods

by Jonathan Parde
(Worcester UK)

Hi. I am restoring a 1930 Richardson "Little Giant" which was totally rotton.

I have now reached a point where I need some advice.

The hull is made from Cedar and is approx. 18mm thick planks with nothing but some sort of putty between them, there is no caulking cotton.

The gaps in between the planks is approximately 1.5 mm.

What would you recommend to make a waterproof seal?

Can I simply fill them with putty and redlead and wait for the timbers to "Take up" when it goes in the water.

Thanks Jon

Comments for Caulking methods

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half an inch
by: Cal. Ladysmith BC

Half an inch that's a big gap there,s lots of mastakes out there, but not a big fix, if you are not in a rush look around there still are a few old chaps that love to teach, or put a hand to an old art.

Do it right and sail safe.

I have pulled a few sailers from the waters in my years when things get rough paint lets go.

Jim has given you the right directions.

Follow the path of least resistance.

caulking Cotton
by: Mike

First let me congratulate you on rescuing your "Little Giant", a lovely boat.

You say that there is no caulking cotton, I wonder if someone, in the past, has tried to get away with just using a silicon sealant?

If you are going to do the job properly use old fashioned putty and red lead but you must caulk with cotton first.

And besides, tapping in the cotton is one of the most satisfying, stress relieving, wonderful boat restoration jobs.

Nor is it difficult

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