I’ve been working steady three sometimes four days a week on Merva since we got back and I recovered from jet lag. Today I finished fastening down the last bit of the bridge deck.
The first picture is an example of how the entire deck was fastened. I used Teak Systems glue and high-density plastic spacers (the glue doesn’t stick to them, and they don’t crush when clamped). The screws fit in the seams and the fender washers act as clamps. It worked out well. Just a light sanding to get some of the glue up. Now clean the seams and caulk, sand and fair the deck.

The pointy end of the Merva – the big planks are Iroko and will be stained and varnished. The stem needed new oak dutchman and the anchor davit needed a new block. The last photo is of the Port side completely fastened and ready for seam cleaning and caulking.
I don’t know when I’ll get out this year. I hope by September.


