How to Recondition Wooden Canoe Paddles

Wooden canoe paddles are designed for durability in the water. After years of use, however, the polyurethane coating will become damaged and scratched by rocks and sand. The coating of the canoe paddle will also begin breaking down from UV exposure. Wooden canoe paddles are designed to be reconditioned every few years. Reconditioning a wooden canoe paddle is a simple process that will add years of life to the paddle.

Things You'll Need

  • Safety goggles
  • Rubber gloves
  • Respirator
  • 100-grit sandpaper
  • 180- or 220-grit sandpaper
  • Dry cloth
  • Varnish or polyurethane
  • Foam or sponge brush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put on goggles, rubber gloves and respirator unless working in a well-ventilated area. Heed the warnings printed on the polyurethane packaging.

    • 2

      Sand the entire canoe paddle with 100-grit sandpaper.

    • 3

      Wipe off the dust with a clean towel.

    • 4

      Apply a coat of polyurethane using either an inexpensive foam brush or a high quality sponge brush. Allow the canoe paddle to dry completely before continuing.

    • 5

      Sand the entire canoe paddle lightly with a very fine sandpaper, such as 180- or 220-grit. Wipe with a clean cloth.

    • 6

      Add another coat with a new or clean brush, allow to dry, sand and wipe. Repeat until you have achieved the proper number of coats as recommended on the polyurethane packaging. Your canoe paddle will need a total of three or four coats of a high-end marine grade UV-resistant polyurethane; or more coats with a lower quality polyurethane or varnish.

    • 7

      Store the newly reconditioned canoe paddle in a clean, dry place away from sunlight.