Teak!

The Chesapeake did Carrie Rose's woodwork in. Though we enjoyed our time there and had great service from the marina, there was one problematic experience. The boat was stored outside and was to be covered but due to a project of welding several broke and bent stanchions, the cover was left partially open. 

It was a brutal winter on Maryland's Eastern shore, which was then followed by a hot and humid spring. By the time we got there the boat was covered, inside and out, with black mold. The teak's varnish had broken down and the grain was filled with black mold.

The next year we headed for Maine. On the way there, in Cape May to be exact, I took the doors off and tried to remedy the situation. It was a halfhearted attempt, which in the long run did more harm than good. This spring I began to rehab them but realized it was close to impossible while also preparing to launch the boat.

I tidied them up and once in the water sanded as best as I could - with my new Dewalt Multitool - while hanging off the side of the boat. Two coats of teak oil later they looked as good as they were going to get. Dave, from Sir Tugley Blue, graciously offered to bring them home in his Land Rover. I retrieved a tape measure and realized with careful packing they would fit in the already stuffed Honda. 

And so, they now reside in Talman Avenue's basement. I have made progress. After much research I decided to use Cetol Marine Natural Teak stain and then a final coat of Cetol Marine Gloss. I am experimenting on two small strips of teak that keep the doors from falling off the boat. Many months lay ahead before we will drive northeast again, but I want to get this done so I can start on a couple of other projects.

Carrie Rose provides a never ending series of challenges for personal growth and for the obtaining of skills to see them through. I count on these challenges to keep my neurons firing even if they are dulled by the aromatic hydrocarbons in the above mentioned substances. After all what is life without a bit of risk!