Patch Hole in Bottom

by Bob
(Brewster, MA)

I am building my first boat-an optimist pram, plywood on frame.

I missed a frame and drilled a hole about 1/4 inch in diameter through the bottom.

Can this be repaired or do I have to throw away the bottom and start over?

If it can be repaired, how?

Any advice will be appreciated.

Bob in Brewster, MA

Comments for Patch Hole in Bottom

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Patching small holes in plywood
by: Pam

For any small holes thickened epoxy is best.

If you want to reinforce the patch and the hole is close to the frame, as I expect this one is, you can use a piece of fibreglass woven roving or tape on the inside and carefully seal it to the planking and the frame with epoxy.

On the outside just add some extra epoxy and feather it around the hole to make it smooth and level.



PATCH ERRANT HOLE IN BOTTOM
by: CHARLIE GATCHELL

BOB, THAT'S THE WAY, BUT I SUGGEST THAT YOU GLUE A LARGER PIECE OF PLYWOOD OVER THE FILLED HOLE, ON THE INSIDE, FOR STRENGTH!!!

REMEMBER, THIS IS THE BOTTOM!!

CHEERS,
CHARLIE
http://www.keysyachts.com/page10.html
Thanks
by: Anonymous

Thanks, I will patch it as you suggested.
Bob
Fill that Hole
by: Mike

I feel for you Bob,
***C2Add.shtml***
How many of us have done something like that, you’re getting on so well then just one little slip….

At least the hole is in the plywood and not in you.

And yea, you can repair the plywood.

As it is only 1/4 inch, just fill it with some thickened epoxy.

If you want to be absolutely sure that the plug won’t pop out you can widen the outer diameter slightly and or glue a tiny patch on the inside but the thickened epoxy on its own should be enough.

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