Overlapping Fiberglass

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Commanderpete
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Overlapping Fiberglass

Post by Commanderpete »

There seems to be two different techniques for laying up fiberglass for tabbing, etc.

One is to start with a narrow width and overlap with larger ones. For example, 3" tape, then 6" then 8"

That's what I've always done. Seems like it would give a more redundant attachment.

The other method is to start wide and add narrower widths on top.

Is that better somehow?
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Tim
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Post by Tim »

The narrower widths on top are only adding thickness, and no bonding strength. Starting wide and ending narrow makes no sense to me at all.

The reason you start with narrow strips and add wider ones over the top is that you maximize the bonding area of the entire arrangement, and with separate pieces--so that in essence, each subsequent piece bonds to and holds in place the layer below, as well as adding that extra inch or two on each side of new bonding surface.

The correct way is to start narrow and overlap, as you indicate.
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