I suspect that the wood changes colour very quickly, initially. So, what would you say to deliberately tanning the kayak? Maybe this could be done before the glass is applied to avoid resin damage. I doubt that I'd go to this length as I'm in enough of a hurry to get on the water, but is it worth it for those so inclined?

BTW, what is the reason for recoating with varnish every year or two? Are the UV inhibiting properties "consumed" over time, or does one recoat mostly for cosmetic reasons (scratches, etc.)?

Mike Spence

> No varnish can provide 100% protection, if you want that you
> need paint, but then you can't see the wood. The wood is going to
> change color. I don't think there is anything you can do about it.
> In my experience, most woods darken. Store the boat out of the sun
> to slow the process, and call the darkening "patina" and
> keep on paddling. Personally I don't find the darker wood unattractive,
> infact I look for as dark wood as possible.