WAOW 2 - Technical focus on caulking

Caulking is one of those quiet, essential steps that transform the initial wooden structure into a seaworthy vessel.Once the planks are carefully fitted along the hull, fine gaps remain between each piece of wood — natural, inevitable, and necessary. These spaces must be sealed with precision, without ever forcing the material, allowing the boat to live, breathe, and move with the sea.At the shipyard, this process is carried out entirely by hand. Natural fibres — made from the bark of the Gelam tree (Melaleuca cajuputi) — are patiently driven into each seam using a mallet and a caulking iron. The gesture is steady, controlled, almost rhythmic. Too loose, and the seal won’t hold. Too tight, and the wood could be stressed.The Gelam tree, native to Southeast Asia’s wetlands, is a remarkable material in itself. With its white, papery bark and ability to thrive in flooded soils, it has long been valued for its durability in water. Traditionally used for roofing and boatbuilding, it also produces cajeput oil (minyak kayu putih) from its leaves, widely known for its medicinal properties.Once the fibres are set, a protective compound is applied to ensure watertightness and longevity. Layer by layer, seam by seam, the hull becomes resistant — ready to face time and ocean.It is meticulous, repetitive work — often unseen, yet absolutely fundamental.