JEM Watercraft

Two questions actually:

1. Has anyone used Birch ply to build? There was a thread about Lauan ply but I can only get that in 5.2mm and I am doing full glass so I am concerned about weight.

2. Does anyone know the weight comparison between Gaboon (or any of the recommended woods) and Birch?

This is my first build and I'm trying to keep the cost down in case I build a train (wreck) instead of a boat.

I'm concerned with weight because the big draw for me is a boat I can handle myself (Roofing, short walks to the shore), I want to target the original hull weight as close a possible.

EDIT: I just found that Meranti is Lauan, correct?

Wayne

Birch plywood is heavier and sucks up resin more than Gaboon. I've seen a lot of questions about building with it, but never hear much about anyone actually using it for a can or kayak.

Meranti is in the same category as lauan. I believe weight is about the same. The stuff at Lowes might seem lighter because they use fewer plies which uses less glue. Also, the stuff at Lowes splinters more so it's not quite the same as buying "Meranti".

So would you say if I went with the 5.2mm Lauan and a full glass hull I would remain on target with the estimated 30-45lb hull weight?

Disregarding builder skill of course.

Wayne

Well there's a catch to that: The 5.2 isn't the greatest quality stuff and can be hard to build with.

Which model are you looking at building?

Yes, I have worked with Lauan before and it's not the greatest. I find scoring is critical to get anything near a good cut.

I also found 5.5 Lauan at Home Depot but the veneer didn't look as nice as the 5.2 stuff at Lowes.

I'm starting with the Laker free 13.

well meranti will ad some weight... especially if you have to use 6mm.

If you can pick through the pile and find decent 5mm at Lowes, you'll be ok. Get a couple extra sheets in case you find a big void in the middle of the plies.

Thank you much.

Teddy
A metal cutting blade in your jig saw makes excellent cuts. I always cut about an 1/8 outside the lines and finish the sheets with a belt sander, I have been known to use laun
Ron

Thanks for the tip! I remember reading that in a few other areas in the forum (Probably was you).

Teddy,

I cut and trim pretty much the same as Ron on the perent panel. the I use it as a template to park and cut all the other mirrored panels.

Likewise I use that same template panel to trim all mirrored panels with a router and battern bit. Quick, easy and very accurate.