Revamping Boat Seats: Diy Restoration Guide

Boat seats are often the most utilised parts of a boat and are therefore subject to wear and tear. Replacing a boat seat cover can be a simple DIY project that can save you money and give your boat a new lease of life. This introduction will cover the steps to recover a boat seat, the tools and materials required, and the benefits of doing it yourself.

Removing the old seat

Before you begin the process of recovering your boat seat, it is important to inspect the existing seat to determine the extent of the work required. In some cases, you may only need to replace the vinyl cover, while in others, you may need to replace the foam or even the underlying wooden parts.

To remove the old seat, start by taking pictures of the old upholstery from multiple angles for reference. Then, remove the seats from the boat by unscrewing them. Take note of how the fabric is stapled to the plywood base and carefully remove the staples using a screwdriver or staple remover. Try not to tear the old vinyl, and pay attention to the way the vinyl is attached, as different seat makers use different techniques. As you remove each vinyl seat cover, use a marking pen to identify which seat it belongs to by marking the seat location on the cover.

Once all the covers are removed, inspect the underlying materials for any damage. Check the foam for signs of water damage, mould, or degradation, and inspect the wooden parts for any signs of rotting. If you find any issues, add the necessary parts to your shopping list.

Before removing the old vinyl, make sure to measure it to determine the amount of new vinyl needed. Measure the "seat" of each seat and the depth of the padding, then multiply the depth by 2.1 and add that to the length and width of each seat. This will ensure you have enough fabric to cover the seat, the sides, and have some left over for a professional finish.

Buying the right materials

To recover a boat seat, you will need to buy the right materials. The first step is to remove the old seat cover and use it as a template to cut the new cover. You will need to purchase marine-grade, UV-resistant vinyl in the colour or pattern of your choice. Ordinary vinyl will not be suitable as it will quickly wear out due to water and sun exposure. When measuring the amount of vinyl required, you should measure the "seat" of each seat, then measure the depth of the padding on the seat. Multiply the depth by 2.1 and add that to the length and width of each seat. This will give you enough fabric to cover the seat, the sides of the seat, and have some left over to staple to the bottom of the seat for a professional finish.

You will also need to purchase foam if the existing foam is damaged or degraded. The foam should be high-density and rated for marine use. When measuring the foam, it is recommended to cut off slightly more than needed to give the vinyl a stuffed cushion feeling. A sharpie and an electric knife can be used to cut the foam.

In addition, you will need an upholstery stapler or carpet tacker, along with staples, to attach the new cover. Marking pencils and sewing shears are also required for drawing and trimming patterns. It is recommended to buy at least 10% more vinyl than needed, preferably 25%, to account for any errors or wastage.

Cutting the new vinyl

Now that you have purchased your new vinyl, it's time to cut it to size. Using your old seat covers as a template, lay them flat on the new vinyl. You can use weights to ensure the old vinyl lays flat. Trace around the old vinyl with a grease pencil or chalk, as close as possible to achieve a 100% accurate copy.

Check twice, cut once! Before you start cutting, spread the old vinyl out again and check that the pattern has transferred correctly. You can then remove the old vinyl and copy the seat location onto the new material.

It's time to cut! Using a pair of sewing scissors, cut the new vinyl along the lines you have traced. You now have a new seat cover ready to attach.

Before you attach the new cover, it's worth taking the time to inspect the foam and the wooden seat base. If the foam is damaged or mouldy, it will need to be replaced. You can cut the foam with an electric knife or, for very thick foam, a carving knife. The wooden base should also be checked for any signs of rotting. If the wood is rotten, you will need to remove the old seat completely and replace the wood.

Assuming the foam and wood are in good condition, you can now place the new cover on the seat. Centre the seat on the new cover, ensuring it is correctly oriented to the shape of the vinyl. Pull one side of the vinyl up and over the wood seat base, stapling it into place. Repeat on the opposite side, then move to the front and back, pulling the vinyl taut and stapling it into place. Finally, staple the sides in the same fashion.

Installing the new cover

Now that you've removed the old cover and cut the new vinyl, it's time to install the new cover. Place the new vinyl with the “inside" facing up, and lay the old cover on top of it. Use weights to keep the old cover flat. Trace around the old cover with a piece of chalk or a grease pencil. Check twice to ensure the pattern has been transferred correctly before removing the old cover.

Before you cut the new vinyl, copy the seat location onto the new material with chalk. Then, use a pair of scissors to cut along the chalk line.

Place the seat in the middle of the new cover, ensuring it is correctly oriented to the shape of the vinyl. Pull one side of the vinyl up and over the wood seat base, so it laps over the edge of the seat base as far as the old cover did. Staple this side in place, using at least four staples, but not in the corners. Repeat this process with the opposite side, then the front and rear, managing the corners in the same way as the original—either tucked or gathered.

Now, work your way along the front, putting a new staple every one or two centimetres. It's best to alternate sides, working your way out from the centre. This helps prevent bunching and wrinkling. After the front, apply the staples in the back, following a similar pattern and continuing to hold the vinyl tight as you work. Last, staple both sides in the same fashion you stapled the front and back.

If you want your seats to last longer, consider applying a vinyl protectant. These chemicals will protect the seats against UV rays and premature ageing, while also adding an attractive shine.

Applying a vinyl protectant

Step 1: Choose the Right Product

Select a vinyl protectant that is specifically designed for marine use, such as 303 Aerospace Protectant or Better Boat Vinyl Protectant. These products offer superior UV protection and help prevent fading, discolouration, and cracking of the vinyl. They also repel dust, smudges, and stains, keeping your boat seats looking clean and vibrant.

Step 2: Clean the Boat Seats

Before applying any protectant, it is crucial to thoroughly clean the boat seats to remove any dirt, grime, or mildew. Use a good-quality boat vinyl cleaner, such as Gold Eagle's 303 Multi-Surface Cleaner. Spray the cleaner directly onto the seats, wait for a minute, and then use a soft brush to work it into the vinyl with gentle circular motions. Use a toothbrush for crevices and piping. Finally, wipe down the seats with a clean cloth to remove the loosened dirt.

Step 3: Apply the Vinyl Protectant

Once the seats are clean and dry, it's time to apply the vinyl protectant. Spray the protectant evenly onto the vinyl surfaces, following the directions on the product. Use a soft cloth to wipe the area completely dry. For greater protection and a longer-lasting finish, buff the surface with a dry cloth a few times.

Step 4: Maintain Regularly

To ensure maximum protection, it is essential to maintain your boat seats regularly. Repeat the cleaning and protection process every three to five weeks, or at least weekly when your boat is not in use. This will help prevent sun damage, fading, and discolouration, keeping your boat seats looking like new for years to come.

Step 5: Cover Your Boat Seats

In addition to using a vinyl protectant, it is highly recommended to cover your boat seats when they are not in use. The sun's UV rays are the number one cause of fading and cracking, so investing in a good-quality boat cover with a vent cap will help protect your seats from sun damage. Proper ventilation will also prevent mould and mildew growth, ensuring your boat seats remain in top condition.

Frequently asked questions