If sanded down wood gets wet will it get ruined?

Question

I am in the middle of redoing a 1954 all wood boat. The outside of the boat is epoxied and protected, but the inside of the boat is sanded bare. Despite being under a "boat port" (covered by a roof with no walls) the rain is being blown into the boat by the wind and and the inside of the boat looked wet today. Is the wood going to rot or should I do something besides attempt drying it with towels to prevent rot?

Answer 1

It's been in & out of the water since 1954 if teak or mahogany it will only stain it> Sand it again> Mahogany will rot when long term exposure to fresh water> like laying in the keel area> Oak is more to rot but open exposure short them will not effect it>let dry out and finish it>

Answer 2

It will not rot so quickly, maybe in a year or so if you let water sit that long. The grain will be raised up after it gets wet and you may have to sand again after it is dry. Try covering the boat with some plastic or a tarp to keep the water out.

Answer 3

I have a 40 year old all wood sailboat.  Every year (or at least every other year), I do a full blown sand down.  Yes, the wood will soak up some water and will raise the grain.  It actually helps getting a real smooth surface to dampen the wood.  Go get some shower curtains or a tarp and try to make shed rain proof.  Just let wood dry out real good before you paint/varnish.  Try not to cover the boat, it needs air circulation to dry.  Go get a fan and help it.

Answer 4

If you have a few quid buy a dehumidifier. Prolonged exposure to water will cause bare wood to rot and turn black. From my solemn experience - 3 months and i ruins.. granted thats in Ireland - lots of rain.

Ensure the boat is covered and unless its in a controlled environment I strongly recommend you buy a dehumidifier and leave it running in the boat.