Protect epoxy from UV rays and the weather
Now that the Duracell roof is complete, it's time to apply a coat of primer to protect the resin from the effects of UV and winter humidity. Matt carefully sands down all the areas where the composite is bare, and cleans them carefully. As he points out, the quality of the paint lies in its preparation. Unable to find a spray gun that accepts the types of solvent he uses, Matt and his mother paint all the surfaces with a roller. They also iron over areas that have already had a coat, to extend the open time by 6 months so they can cover the primer without sanding.
Once dry, Matt and Joni can appreciate the change from Duracell, with the primer giving the cockpit a completely different feel.
Furnishing the sleeping berths
For the winter, Matt returns to interior work. The first job is to fit out the watch bunks. These will be installed in a small space under the indoor benches at the rear of the dog house. Matt makes a model and shows the drawings of the future bunks. He also outlines the need for ventilation, and the solutions he intends to implement, with fans.
