THE BEST TIMBERFOR BOAT BUILDING

AN INTRODUCTORY GUIDE

ABOUT USWho are we? We’re International Timber! The UK’s largest supplier and distributer of timber and panel products.

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WOODEnough about us, let’s get on to building boats...

& WATER

Despite it’s natural hardiness- wood can be highly vulnerable to deterioration if water is allowed to penetrate its inner layers.

While some types of wood naturally produce chemicals that help against this, others are highly susceptible and therefore unsuitable for use in boat building.

BOAT BUILDINGTECHNIQUES∎ There are a number of techniques boat builders use to achieve their results, from

ancient approaches to modern methodologies.∎ What is right for your project depends on the size, scope and intended use.∎ Some of the most commonly used techniques from either category include...

CARVELWhere individual, tapered planks are positioned edge-to-edge and fastened to a framework.

While it can deliver fantastic results- this traditional technique requires a great deal of expertise to carry out and due to its antiquated nature, sourcing the correct materials can be a drain on cost.

COLDMOULDINGWhere a number of thin veneers are layered onto a jig or framework.

Despite requiring relatively expensive materials and the construction of a jig, this tends to produce a strong hull.

CLINKERWhere individual, tapered planks are laid out with overlapping edges.

As with the Carvel technique- you’ll need a great deal of skill to carry this out and expect to pay a pretty penny for materials. It also requires more maintenance than other methods.

STRIPPLANKINGWhere flexible strips of timber are fastened around temporary forms.

A modern update to the Carvel technique- this involves glued construction, and is especially popular for smaller vessels like canoes and kayaks, but can be applied to several types of larger boat.

CLINKERPLYSimilar to traditional Clinker, but with the joins between planks fastened with epoxy.

This technique is great for lightweight constructions, but can prove difficult to repair.

BESTSo, if wood and water don’t mix, what’s the best boat building timber?

TIMBER?

ASHAsh provides tough timber that can stand up to the elements, while still being fairly lightweight to boot. It’s suitability for bending means it can be used in a variety of fixtures, although these days it’s favoured for interior fit-outs. However, it does tend to require treatment before being exposed to a marine environment.

CEDARSeveral varieties of cedar are ideal for construction work and Western Red exemplifies the qualities of this lightweight softwood. In addition to being used in a conventional format, it’s available in veneer form- which lends itself well to cold moulding techniques.

DOUGLAS FIRProviding the ideal combination of low weight and strength - Douglas Fir has seen use in a variety of boatbuilding roles - from heavy construction to masts and spars. It’s widely available in long, clear lengths and accommodates finishes well.

IROKOThis low-cost wood provides a great alternative to Teak for those on a budget. It’s hard, resistant to abrasion and UV rays, as well as being waterproof. However, it can be tricky to finish and contains a lot of internal stresses- limiting the roles it can be utilised in.

OAKOak has been a historically popular boat building material- particularly for heavy constructional purposes, although only some varieties are suitable for marine usage.

SAPELEA favourite for musical instruments, as well as water-borne vessels. This African wood is similar to mahogany and combines reasonable rot resistance with great aesthetics.

UTILEUtile is a similar species to Sapele, which tends to produce a more interesting grain and consequently, a better finish. However, be prepared to shell out a little bit more for these features.

Thanks for reading!We’ve only scratched the surface of the intricate world of boat building, and if you have any favourites or advice you’d like to share- be sure to let us know on twitter. If you’re looking for quality timber for a boat building project, or anything else, don’t hesitate to get in touch...

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