How To Replace Gunwales On A Canoe: A Step-By-Step Guide

We use Watco-oiled white ash for our canoe gunwales. We choose inwales and outwales with matching grain to create a timeless look. Our sculpted, laminated decks are made of walnut and ash, which allows water to drain off the wood and creates a beautiful look.

Gunwales are the topmost pieces of wood that run along the length of a canoe. They provide structural support for the canoe and are usually made of a strong, durable wood like white ash. White ash is a popular choice for canoe gunwales because it is strong, lightweight, and easy to work with. It also has a beautiful grain that enhances the aesthetic appeal of the canoe. Watco oil is a wood finish that helps to protect the wood from moisture and the elements. It also enhances the natural beauty of the wood grain. The inwale is the inner piece of wood that runs along the top edge of the canoe’s side. The outwale is the outer piece of wood that runs along the top edge of the canoe’s side. By using matched grain for the inwale and outwale, we can create a visually appealing and symmetrical look for the canoe.

We use a similar process to select wood for the deck, but in this case we use walnut and ash. Walnut is a very strong hardwood. It is known for its dark brown color and beautiful grain pattern. Ash is also very strong, but it is lighter in color than walnut. By laminating the walnut and ash together, we can create a strong, durable, and beautiful deck for the canoe. The laminated deck allows water to drain off the wood, which helps to prevent water damage and rot. The combination of walnut and ash creates a stunning visual contrast that enhances the overall look of the canoe.

You’ll need to sand the gunwales first. Make sure to remove any dust or dirt after sanding. Then, saturate a rag with the oil of your choice. I use and recommend tung oil. Simply pass the rag over each part of the sanded wooden gunwales.

You’ll want to make sure you use a good quality oil. The oil will help to protect the wood from the elements and keep it looking its best. Tung oil is a good choice because it’s a natural oil that’s durable and water-resistant. It’s also easy to apply and dries quickly.

You can also use other oils like linseed oil or teak oil. Just be sure to choose an oil that’s designed for use on wood. Be sure to let the oil soak in for a few minutes before wiping off any excess. You may need to apply several coats of oil, depending on the type of wood and the desired finish.

It’s best to oil the gunwales when the canoe is out of the water and in a well-ventilated area. This will help to prevent the oil from getting into the water. Oil the gunwales regularly to keep them in good condition. Be sure to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific recommendations on how often to oil the gunwales.

The gunwale on a canoe is the top edge of the hull. It’s usually made of wood, plastic, or aluminum and is wider than the rest of the hull. The gunwale helps to strengthen the canoe and provides a place to attach thwarts, the crosspieces that support the seats.

Think of the gunwale as the backbone of the canoe. It gives the canoe its shape and helps to keep it from collapsing. The gunwale also provides a solid place to attach the thwarts, which are essential for keeping the seats in place and providing a stable platform for paddling.

The gunwale is also important for safety. It provides a handhold for getting in and out of the canoe and can also be used to help stabilize the canoe in rough water. You can also use it to tie down gear or to attach a spray skirt, which helps to keep water from splashing in the canoe.

Here’s a breakdown of why the gunwale is so important:

Strength and Stability: The gunwale strengthens the canoe’s structure. It’s the backbone that provides stability, helps the canoe to maintain its shape, and prevents it from collapsing.
Thwart Support: The gunwale is where the thwarts are attached. The thwarts are the crosspieces that support the seats, which are critical for comfort and stability during paddling.
Safety and Security: The gunwale provides a handhold for getting in and out of the canoe, especially for younger or less experienced paddlers. It also helps to stabilize the canoe in rough water.
Gear Attachment: The gunwale is a great place to tie down your gear, whether it’s extra paddles, a cooler, or any other supplies you need.

So, the next time you’re in a canoe, remember the gunwale. It’s not just a fancy name for the top edge of the hull. It’s an integral part of the canoe’s design, playing a critical role in its strength, stability, and safety.

Canoe gunwales are typically 5/8″ high x 3/4″ wide, but they can be up to 1/8″ less in both dimensions. The outer edge is usually rounded. The length of the gunwale should be about 1 foot longer than the canoe, or even a bit more if you’re planning on making a wrap-around end.

Remember, the size of the gunwale depends on what you need it to do. For example, you’ll need a wider gunwale if you’re going to attach portage handles to it. But don’t cut them down too much, because they are designed to provide strength and support.

It’s also important to consider the shape of the canoe when choosing the size of the gunwale. If the canoe is wider at the bow and stern, you’ll need a longer gunwale to accommodate that shape.

You can choose from a variety of materials for your gunwales, such as wood, aluminum, or fiberglass. Wood gunwales are often the most traditional choice, but aluminum and fiberglass are more durable and require less maintenance. If you’re planning to use your canoe in harsh conditions, it’s best to choose a material that’s resistant to weathering and damage.

Gunwales, sometimes called rails, are the top edges of a canoe’s hull.

Think of them as the rim of the canoe, running along the top of the sides. They provide several key functions:

Stability: Gunwales add strength and rigidity to the canoe, making it more stable and less likely to tip over.
Protection: They protect the canoe’s sides from damage, especially when the canoe is being transported or stored.
Attachment Points: Gunwales are often used as attachment points for seats, thwarts (cross-seats), and other equipment like carrying handles or paddle holders.

There are different types of gunwales found on canoes, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.

Wood gunwales: These are traditional and offer a classic look. Wood gunwales are typically made from cedar, ash, or oak and are often curved to match the shape of the canoe. They can be quite durable but are prone to cracking or warping over time, especially if not properly cared for.
Aluminum gunwales: These are a more modern and practical option. Aluminum gunwales are strong, lightweight, and resistant to corrosion. They are also easier to maintain than wood gunwales.
Fiberglass gunwales: These are often found on fiberglass canoes and are often molded into the hull, providing a very durable and watertight finish.

When choosing a canoe, consider the type of gunwales and their intended use. For example, if you plan to use the canoe in rough water or for long trips, you might want to choose a canoe with aluminum or fiberglass gunwales for their increased durability.

You can use hardwood for gunwales. I’ve used walnut, ash, and mahogany with great success. The type of wood you choose won’t drastically impact the performance of your boat. However, some hardwoods can be more challenging to bend than others. If you keep your inwales at 3/8″ wide, bending shouldn’t be a problem.

Here’s a little more about choosing the right hardwood for your gunwales:

Strength and Durability: You want a wood that is strong and resistant to rot and decay. Hardwoods like oak, hickory, and teak are excellent choices.
Bending Properties: If you need to bend your gunwales, consider white oak, ash, or cherry. These woods are known for their flexibility.
Aesthetic Appeal: If you’re looking for a particular look, mahogany is a classic choice for gunwales. It’s beautiful, strong, and durable.
Availability and Cost: The price and availability of hardwoods can vary. Consider what’s readily available in your area and what fits your budget.

No matter what hardwood you choose, make sure it’s well-seasoned and free of knots and defects. This will help ensure that your gunwales are strong and durable. Good luck with your boatbuilding!

Okay, let’s dive into the world of gunwales and their thickness!

Gunwales are the top edge of a boat, providing support and structure. They’re crucial for keeping the boat together and strong. The thickness of a gunwale depends on a few factors, like the size of the boat, the materials used, and the intended use.

Industry standard is 3/4 inch square ash for solo inwales and outwales. Ash is a great choice because it’s strong and lightweight, making it ideal for boats. Tandem outwales, which are designed for two or more people, are often a bit wider. That extra width is needed to handle the extra force from more people pushing off the gunwales.

Cherry and walnut are also good choices for gunwales. They have similar properties to ash, but they can be a bit heavier. Sitka spruce is another popular option, but it’s softer than ash, cherry, or walnut. It might need to be slightly thicker to handle the same level of stress.

Let’s break down this concept a little more. You’re essentially choosing between strength and weight. Ash is known for its strength-to-weight ratio, which is why it’s a popular choice for boat builders. If you’re building a boat for racing, where weight is critical, then you might lean towards ash. But if you’re building a boat for leisurely paddling, and you want a bit more warmth and beauty in your wood choice, cherry and walnut are also excellent options.

Keep in mind that choosing the right thickness for your gunwales is important. Too thin, and they might not be strong enough to handle the forces of paddling and carrying weight. Too thick, and your boat will be heavier and harder to maneuver.

Ultimately, the best thickness for your gunwales depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to consult with a boat builder or someone with experience in boat construction. They can help you choose the right materials and dimensions for your project.

In Eastern North America, chestnut or pine were the woods of choice for building dugout canoes. A carefully controlled fire was used to hollow out the logs. The fire was extinguished at intervals, allowing for the burned wood to be scraped out using wood, shell, or stone tools. This process resulted in canoes with a flat bottom and straight sides.

Let’s delve a little deeper into why these specific woods were favored for dugout canoe construction.

Chestnut was a popular choice due to its remarkable strength, durability, and resistance to rot. It’s a hardwood that’s naturally straight-grained, making it ideal for carving into a canoe shape. The wood’s resilience also made it suitable for enduring the rigors of paddling and carrying heavy loads.

Pine also provided excellent properties for dugout canoe construction, particularly the Eastern White Pine. This variety of pine is known for its lightweight, yet durable wood, making it easier to work with and maneuver. The wood’s straight grain allowed for smooth, even surfaces, further contributing to the canoe’s structural integrity. The softwood also made it easier to carve and shape, although it might not have been as resilient as chestnut.

The combination of chestnut and pine allowed for a variety of dugout canoes to be constructed, each with its own unique advantages. The chestnut canoes, being more durable, were often favored for larger, heavier-duty canoes, while the pine canoes, lighter and easier to maneuver, were commonly used for smaller, more agile canoes.

We’ve found that Watco Exterior Natural Oil is the best oil for ash gunwales. It’s a great choice because it’s long-lasting, performs well, and even offers UV protection. We applied three coats to our gunwales and decks. You’ll know it’s time to re-oil when the gunwales feel rough or look dry.

Here’s why we think Watco Exterior Natural Oil is the best option for ash gunwales:

Durability: This oil is designed for outdoor use and can withstand the elements. You won’t have to reapply it as often as other oils.
Performance: It penetrates deeply into the wood, providing long-lasting protection from moisture and rot. This is crucial for ash gunwales, which are often exposed to the elements.
UV Protection: The sun can damage wood, causing it to fade and crack. Watco Exterior Natural Oil contains UV inhibitors that help protect your ash gunwales from the harmful effects of the sun.

We’ve tested many different wood oils over the years, and Watco Exterior Natural Oil has consistently come out on top. If you’re looking for the best oil to protect your ash gunwales, we highly recommend this one.

You can definitely replace the gunwales on your canoe! It’s a great way to give your old canoe a new lease on life. If the plastic is in good shape, you can completely refresh your canoe by removing and replacing all the wood. This will leave your canoe looking great.

Replacing gunwales is a project that requires some woodworking skills. You’ll need to know how to cut, shape, and attach wood. But don’t worry, it’s not as daunting as it sounds. There are plenty of resources available online and in libraries that can walk you through the process step-by-step.

Here are some key things to consider when replacing gunwales:

Choose the right wood: The gunwales are the top rails of your canoe, so they need to be strong and durable. Traditional canoe gunwales are often made from cedar, spruce, or ash. These woods are light, strong, and resistant to rot.
Measure carefully: Before you start cutting, make sure you measure the length of your gunwales carefully. You’ll want to get the right fit so that they sit flush with the rest of the canoe.
Use the right tools: You’ll need a few basic tools to replace the gunwales, including a saw, a drill, and a screwdriver. You may also need a router if you want to give your gunwales a more finished look.
Secure the new gunwales: You’ll need to secure the new gunwales to the canoe. This is typically done using screws or rivets. You can also use epoxy to further strengthen the bond between the gunwales and the canoe.

Replacing gunwales can be a challenging but rewarding project. With a little patience and effort, you can give your canoe a whole new look and feel.

Looking for a gunwale replacement? NorthWest Canoe is a great place to start your search! They stock full-length wood and aluminumcanoe gunwales that fit most manufacturers. Plus, they have hard-to-find stainless hardware. If you’re not close enough to visit in person, consider their ash Knockdown Gunwale kit. This kit is perfect for DIY projects and makes replacing a gunwale a breeze.

When choosing a gunwale replacement, you’ll want to consider the material, size, and style. Wood gunwales are traditional and add a classic look to your canoe. Aluminum gunwales are more durable and weather-resistant. Knockdown gunwales are a popular choice for DIY projects because they’re easy to install.

Before you buy a gunwale replacement, you’ll want to measure the length of your existing gunwale to make sure you get the right size. You’ll also want to consider the width of the gunwale and the type of hardware you need. NorthWest Canoe offers a wide variety of gunwales and hardware to choose from, so you’re sure to find what you need. They can also offer expert advice on choosing the right gunwale for your canoe.

Whether you’re looking for a gunwale replacement or just want to upgrade your canoe, NorthWest Canoe is a great resource. With a wide selection of gunwales and hardware, plus knowledgeable staff, you can rest assured that you’ll find the perfect fit for your canoe.

Replacing a wood gunwale on a canoe takes about eight hours. You can also reduce your canoe’s weight by five pounds. A new set of wood gunwales will make your canoe look and feel fantastic.

Here are the steps to install new wood gunwales on a composite canoe:

1. Remove the old gunwales. You’ll need to carefully pry them off the canoe’s hull, taking care not to damage the hull.
2. Prepare the hull. Once the old gunwales are removed, you’ll need to clean the hull and make sure it’s smooth and even.
3. Install the new gunwales. The new gunwales will need to be cut to the correct length and shape. Once they’re cut, you can attach them to the hull using epoxy and screws.
4. Finish the gunwales. Once the gunwales are attached, you’ll need to finish them by sanding them smooth and applying a sealant.

How Long Does it Take to Replace a Wood Gunwale?

The time it takes to replace a wood gunwale will vary depending on the size and shape of the canoe, the condition of the old gunwales, and the experience of the person doing the work. However, eight hours is a good estimate for a typical canoe.

Why Does it Take So Long?

Replacing a wood gunwale is a time-consuming process because it requires several steps. First, you need to remove the old gunwales, which can be difficult if they’re old and brittle. Then, you need to prepare the hull by cleaning it and making sure it’s smooth and even. This is important to ensure that the new gunwales are properly attached. Next, you need to cut and install the new gunwales. Finally, you need to finish the gunwales by sanding them smooth and applying a sealant.

What Can You Do to Make the Process Faster?

There are a few things you can do to make the process of replacing a wood gunwale faster. First, you can use a power drill to remove the old gunwales. This will save you a lot of time, especially if the gunwales are old and brittle. Second, you can use a template to cut the new gunwales to the correct size and shape. This will ensure that the gunwales fit properly and will save you time. Finally, you can use a sealant that dries quickly to speed up the finishing process.

Although Kevlar canoes are known for their lightweight construction, adding wood gunwales can enhance their aesthetics and functionality. While it’s true that wood gunwales offer a classic and elegant look, their primary benefit lies in providing additional strength and support to the canoe’s structure. Kevlar is a strong material, but it can be prone to denting or scratching, especially in high-impact situations. Wood gunwales act as a protective barrier, absorbing some of the force from potential impacts.

A common misconception is that replacing the original gunwales with wood ones will significantly reduce the canoe’s weight. While it’s true that wood gunwales can be lighter than some of the materials used in factory-installed gunwales, the weight difference is usually minimal. Five pounds is a substantial weight loss, and while it’s possible to achieve this through a careful selection of materials and efficient construction techniques, it’s not a guaranteed outcome. In many cases, the weight difference will be negligible.

The decision of whether to add wood gunwales to a Kevlar canoe is a personal one, influenced by factors like aesthetics, desired performance, and budget. If you value the classic look and appreciate the additional protection they offer, then the effort and cost may be worthwhile. However, if weight reduction is your primary concern, then choosing lighter alternatives like carbon fiber or fiberglass gunwales might be a better option.

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