I have come across a few old wood waterskis (Cypress Gardens) that are constructed of 3 boards glued lengthways and are splitting along the seams. Two questions:
1. What epoxy (assuming I should use epoxy) should I use to reglue and clamp them back together after cleaning up seams?
2. Would it be a good idea to fiberglass over the ski for strength, like one does on a wood strip canoe or stand up paddleboard?
Thanks for your help. Just thought I'd reach out and see if anyone else has any experience with this.
Yes, the goal is to get them back in the water.
Sorry, the skis are still at our friends, but I will post some pics as soon as I pick them up later this week.
I made a slalom water ski decades ago, when I was in high school down in S. Florida. IIRC, I didn't use any special kind of epoxy, just your standard 2 part stuff, but I believe I added some microfibers as a filler so it would fill gaps better. I can't remember the exact finish I used, but I believe it was some kind of urethane that the teacher recommended. That ski was awesome, held up well to the abuse and salt water environment, and I sold it some 10 years later for $200 and it was still in perfect condition. I remember those old Cypress garden skis, and may still have a pair or two out in the shed. I'd just epoxy it back. Most likely, todays epoxy is much better than what was being used in the 70-80's so it should hold up just fine. Then finish with your preferred top coat to keep the moisture out.
Thank you everyone for your quick replies and willingness to help. I just talked with the owner of the skis and they are going to tackle the project themselves. Who am I to stand in the way of someone experiencing the joys of woodworking?!
Thanks again everyone, I am sure I will have some more questions soon
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