A Lineside Chat with Ian - 21/2/2006 :

1) Remove all old canvas and roof tacks.
2) Replace all rotten and damaged wood.
3) Remove all original fasteners (i.e. screws) and replace with either stainless steel or galvanized fasteners at least 25 mm longer.
4) Sand the entire roof.
5) Vacuum the roof.
6) Apply one coat of Weathershield or Solarguard paint.
7) Fill in all large holes and gaps, and groove with a water-based gap filler (not tongue and groove).
8) One more coat of the above-mentioned paint.
9) Place new 16 ounce canvas on the roof and spread out (canvas having been previously cut and stitched to size).
10) Centralize and, using stainless steel staples, staple one side.
11) Pull tight, and complete the opposite side.
12) Repeat for both ends.
13) Make up a solution of approximately 30% paint and 70% water and apply.
14) Second coat: 50% paint, 50% water.
15) Third coat - don’t water down the paint.
16) Paint yet again.
17) Trim any excess canvas
18) Stand back and shout “Fantastic!” (or words to that effect).

Note: use water-based Solarguard or Weathershield, and STRICTLY NO SHADECLOTH OR TACKS.

There, you have it! (Easy, isn’t it?) Who says you can’t have fun on a Tourist Railway?

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