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To: DrRot@rotdoctor.com
Subject: TIME OUT OF WATER
Date: Sat, 11 Oct 1997

Hi Doc:

Is there a period of time one would be concerned with when the wooden hull boat is out of the water for a repair or routine maintenance? Is a month too long? In this area where the boat is kept docked, North of Cape May, New Jersey, it can get very warm during the summer which is when I would plan on hauling for bottom paint, hull maintenance and inspection, because the ambient heat would obviously work in favor of the drying process. But, I don't want to dry it out too much do I ?

The boat I'm interested in is a 1973 42' Post Sportfisherman, built at Post Yacht's in Egg Harbor, New Jersey. At this time I have not been provided with the details of the hull construction. Although, it does look well maintained. When I obtain those details I will be in touch concerning the product selection for any repairs.

Also, if your products are used inside the hull have you noticed any odors which linger? Have you developed any video tape's for instruction, i.e. "This Old Boat."

Thanks, and good sailin'

Charles


Charles:

Well, obviously the less time out of the water the better. I used to live near your area so I know what summer conditions are like. On the boat you are talking about, I think your major problem will be the seams opening up on the hull. How this affects things depends on what kind of compound they put over the caulking cotton. Generally they used one of the polysulfides like Boatlife back then. If the bond breaks between the compound and the hull, then you have potential leak problems. It's not as bad as it sounds, though. The wood eventually swells back up and a pretty good seal is obtained. I've been through this process more than once on a variety of boats.

If all you're doing is inspection/painting, then only the surface of the wood needs to be dry. A couple of days will take care of that. Beyond that, it all depends on what is happening and what you plan to do. Ask me again when you get to that stage.

There are things you can do to help. Tarps draped down to keep direct sun off are useful. Hosing the hull down once a day is useful, and the water on the ground under the tarp acts as a moisturizer. It helps. The final thing is to have a good plan of action ready so you get what you need to have done as quickly as possible. Remember too that sometimes certain items that should eventually repaired can be put off for another season. This way you don't get bogged down with just too damn many things to do.

My impression -- only an impression! -- is that the Posts were pretty well constructed.

Our Clear Penetrating Epoxy (CPES) has a strong odor when used, caused by the solvents required to carry the epoxy deep into the wood. After this evaporates away -- takes a few days -- then there is no lingering odor. The resins have no appreciable odor. When we use CPES on the interior of DELTA, my wife goes elsewhere that first night. She doesn't like the odor; it doesn't bother me.

Naw, no videotapes. but we'll lead you through any particular process for your boat via phone and/or e-mail. Maybe someday videotapes -- worth a thought.

Enjoy that winter and think Spring and boats and fun!

Doc

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