What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Building a Raft?

Building a Raft

Rafts are a great way to explore rivers and lakes. However, the process of building a raft can be dangerous and time-consuming if done improperly. Knowing what to avoid can help you have a safe and successful build. The most important thing when preparing to build a raft is to have the proper materials. You should also wear appropriate safety equipment, such as goggles and gloves when handling power and hand tools. It is also important to stay hydrated throughout the process.

When assembling your Floßbau, start by finding a body of water that is calm enough to be used. Then choose a location that is away from dangerous wildlife or moving currents. You will need to decide the size and shape of your raft based on the type of flotation devices you have available. You should also prepare a deck and any other necessary features. Make sure to bring a tarp or plastic sheeting, as well as ropes for lashing and other safety equipment.

A raft is typically made of wood or other materials that float. Flotation materials can be anything from scrap lumber to old barrels. They are usually fastened together with rope, tie-downs or ratchet-straps. Ratchet-straps are preferred because they are easy to loosen and re-tighten as needed. They are also safer than traditional rope knots.

What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Building a Raft?

Once all of the raft materials are assembled, it is important to test the raft before taking it out on the water. Be sure to test it in shallow water, as this will help prevent any potential injuries. It is also recommended to test it out on different types of surfaces, such as sand and gravel. This will give you a better idea of how the raft will perform on different types of surfaces.

After testing the raft, you should secure it by running lines between the bows and sterns of the boats. This will minimize the fore and aft motion between the rafts, as well as the potential for collisions. You should also take a moment to ensure the deck is sturdy enough for you and your crew to sit on. This is the most common place for people to fall off of a raft, so it is important that it is secured. You can use ropes or ratchet-straps to tie the deck down, but be sure to check it often for weak spots that may need to be tightened up.

The final step in constructing your raft is to apply a thin layer of silicone gel to the plywood before driving brass screws into it. This will help protect the wood from the elements and increase the strength of the screw connection. Then let the silicone dry for at least 4 hours before putting your raft in the water. This raft is only designed for 2 adults, so it’s a good idea to have some extra flotation devices available just in case. This raft is not designed for use on fast-moving or rough water, so be sure to only take it out on calm ponds and lakes. And remember to always wear an approved life vest.