How Were Wooden Ships Sealed?

Wooden ships were sealed to keep water out and make them safe for long trips on the ocean. This process was called caulking. Caulking helped fill the gaps between the wooden planks of the ship. Without this, water would leak in, and the ship could sink.

How Did They Do It?

Shipbuilders used fibers like oakum, which was made from old ropes that were soaked in tar. This tar made the oakum sticky and waterproof. The oakum was pushed tightly into the seams between the wooden planks using special tools called caulking mallets and irons. After the oakum was packed in, more tar was added on top to make sure everything was sealed and protected from water.

Why Was This Important?

Sealing ships was very important in the past because ships made of wood could soak up water and become too heavy or start to rot. By sealing the seams, shipbuilders kept the ship strong, safe, and able to stay on long voyages across the sea.

This method helped wooden ships travel for weeks or even months without leaking, which was necessary for trading, exploring, and moving people from place to place.

Build Your Own Wooden Boat

If learning about the craftsmanship of wooden ships sparks your interest, why not try building your own? Our step-by-step wooden boat plans make it easy to create your own piece of history. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, our plans guide you through every step, including how to seal your boat properly, just like the old shipbuilders did. Jump into your next project and set sail on your handmade creation!