Canoe Repairs | Finger Lakes | Rochester | New York

Canoe Repair & Restoration

Canoes are built to last, and many damaged boats can be repaired even after years of hard use. Our shop specializes in canoe repair and restoration, from composite hull damage to worn wood trim.

We provide canoe repair and restoration services for paddlers across the Finger Lakes, Rochester, and Upstate New York.

While we specialize in Hemlock Canoe Works models, we regularly repair canoes from builders such as Wenonah, Swift, Old Town, Bell, Northstar, Hornbeck and others.

Wood Repairs

Fix your wood trim

Honest Estimates

Clear pricing

Gel Coat Repair

Patch you paint

Structural Reinforcement

Strengthen damaged hulls

Bringing a Well-Used Canoe Back to Life

Recent Repair

Damaged canoe before restoration

Play video to see where we started. 

Repair progress gallery

What We Can Repair

Canoe Repair Services

Canoes take a lot of use over the years, and many problems can be repaired with the right approach. Our shop regularly restores damaged composite hulls, rebuilds worn wood trim, and repairs boats that have seen decades of paddling.

While we specialize in woodwork — including gunwales, decks, thwarts, and seats — we also repair composite hull damage and gelcoat issues.

We regularly help paddlers with:

Gunwale replacement and wood trim restoration

Composite hull repairs

Gelcoat repair and finish restoration
Seasonal tune-ups and cleaning

Preparing boats for winter storage

Spring refresh before paddling season

We also help paddlers who prefer to work on their own boats by providing parts, materials, or advice when possible.

Canoe Restoration Examples

Recent Work

Full Restoration

Rotten gunwales replaced, damaged hull repaired, and finish restored.

Before

damaged canoe to be repaired

After

Gunwale Replacement & Hull Refresh

Rotten gunwales replaced, and hull cleaned and refinished

Before

After

Gunwale and Seat Replacement

Rotten gunwales replaced, and more comfortable seating added. 

Before

After

Fair & Honest

Getting a Repair Estimate

The easiest way for us to evaluate a repair is through clear photos of the damage.

When sending photos, try to include:

• a full view of the canoe
• close-ups of the damaged area
• photos from multiple angles

Send images and a short description to:

[email protected]

How We Can Help

Next Steps

Whether you’re planning a repair, looking for parts, or simply want to talk through an idea, we’re happy to help. Explore available repair parts, schedule a visit to the shop, or reach out and tell us about your canoe.

Repair your own

Some paddlers prefer to repair their own boats. When possible, we’re happy to help by providing replacement parts, materials, or guidance. Click below for our parts list

Visit the Shop

Bring your damaged canoe to the shop or stop by for advice.

Talk to a Builder

Have questions about repairs and restoration or looking for repair a quote? We’re always happy to talk through options.