|
|
|
Wooden construction, using modern techniques and resin technology, is fast becoming the building method for many discerning owners. The reasons are clear: a wooden hull, glued with epoxy, is in many ways superior to fibreglass and metal construction.
|
 
|
|
We specialise in a method that uses the unique properties of high quality timber to the best advantage. We laminate ring frames incorporating floors, deck beams and knees, in one piece, usually from mahogany. Strip planks, finished to a perfect fit, are built up around the frames and bulkheads using epoxy glue and nylon fixings. Then we fix veneers of
|
mahogany at right angles to each other in double-diagonal fashion, saturated in epoxy, to create an exceptionally fair surface. This is then sheathed with glass cloth in epoxy to provide abrasion resistance and a base for the paint system.
|
Hulls built to this method are exceptionally strong, light and stiff. Experience has shown, over many years, that they are also durable without the problems commonly associated with osmosis in fibreglass and corrosion and electrolysis in metal.
|
|
|
There are other significant advantages. The boat is being built as soon as work begins; no tooling is required and there is a concomitant saving in time and money. Among hulls recently completed by our team was a 56 foot classically-styled vessel for Spirit Yachts of Ipswich, a leader in the field of modern wooden boat construction and a company
|
renowned for its superb craftsmanship and highest of standards. We would expect to build a similar hull in about 10 weeks.
|
In acknowledging the practical benefits of modern wooden construction, we should also recognise two very important elements - aesthetics and sentiment. We take great pride in constructing out hulls to a high level of precision. This means the planking, visible on the interior, requires only a light sanding and varnish treatment to
|
|
create a wonderfully attractive, warm finish. This saves time and money in the fit-out, of course, but perhaps more importantly it offers a constant reminder that this vessel is that unique sourse of joy - a wooden boat.
|
|
