Re-gunwaling

Re-Gunwaling Your Canoe: A Smart, Sustainable Way to Keep Your Boat Adventure-Ready

At Hou Canoes, we believe that every canoe has a story worth continuing. Over time, even the most well-loved canoe can show signs of wear—especially along its gunwales, the structural rails that run the length of the boat. Rather than retiring a canoe when its gunwales start to deteriorate, re-gunwaling offers an effective and sustainable way to give it new life.

Environmental Benefits: Repair, Don’t Replace

One of the biggest advantages of re-gunwaling is its positive environmental impact. In a world where so many products are designed to be disposable, choosing to repair your canoe instead of replacing it helps reduce waste and conserve resources.

Gunwales are often made from wood, aluminium, or plastic. Replacing only the damaged gunwales rather than discarding the entire canoe means less material ends up in landfill and fewer raw resources need to be extracted and processed. It’s a small action that contributes to a much bigger goal: making paddling a more sustainable pursuit.

At Hou Canoes, we take pride in supporting canoeists who care about the outdoors as much as they enjoy exploring it. By maintaining your existing canoe through re-gunwaling, you’re helping ensure our rivers, lakes, and coastlines stay cleaner for future generations of paddlers.

Cost-Effectiveness: Extend the Life of Your Investment

Our canoes are built to last, and with proper care, a well-maintained hull can serve you for decades. Re-gunwaling is a cost-effective way to extend your canoe’s lifespan without the expense of buying new.

Replacing gunwales typically costs a fraction of what a new canoe would, and it can restore both the strength and the aesthetics of your boat. Wooden gunwales can bring back that classic, natural finish, while aluminium or vinyl replacements offer a durable, low-maintenance alternative. Whatever your choice, re-gunwaling allows you to invest in the longevity of your canoe, rather than starting from scratch.

For those who enjoy hands-on projects, re-gunwaling can also be a rewarding DIY experience. With the right tools, materials, and guidance, you can transform a tired canoe into one that looks—and performs—like new again.

Safety: Ready for the Season Ahead

Safety on the water starts with a sound canoe. Gunwales aren’t just decorative—they play a crucial structural role in keeping your boat stiff, stable, and sea or river worthy. Damaged or weakened gunwales can compromise your canoe’s performance, making it less predictable or even unsafe.

By re-gunwaling before the paddling season begins, you ensure that your canoe is strong, stable, and ready for anything the water throws at you. Whether you’re planning long expeditions or leisurely river paddles, solid gunwales give you the confidence to paddle safely and efficiently.

Keeping the Adventure Going

Re-gunwaling is more than just a repair—it’s an act of respect for craftsmanship, sustainability, and adventure. It keeps canoes on the water longer, reduces waste, and saves you money while ensuring your boat is safe and ready for the season ahead.

At Hou Canoes, we’re here to help you make the most of your canoe for many years to come. So before you consider replacing your boat, take a look at your gunwales—your next great adventure might just start with a bit of skilled repair. 

We can offer parts required or are happy to quote for the work to be done in house by the guys who probably built your boat in the first place :-)