Be very careful about using low priced Baltic birch. Much of
this plywood is used for cabinet making and other indoor uses. It looks
beautiful, but is not necessarily waterproof. If you buy a sheet of it,
cut off a small piece (1/4 X 1 inch piece will do) and boil it in plain
water for about 1/2 hour and then try to peel the plys apart (if they
have not already come apart.) If it comes apart, don't use it.
A safer way is to buy British Spec. 1088 marine ply. It is
available at some lumber yards and boat building shops. This ply will
have the number 1088 stamped on one face. It will be waterproof, have no
face plugs and no large internal voids. I can buy a 4ft by 8ft sheet of
Okume 1088 in 2mm or 3mm for about $60 from a boat shop.
Dick Hartwig
Waunakee, WI
[email protected]
