Replacing Boat Carpet: Sundeck Makeover Tips And Tricks

Boat carpets are exposed to a variety of elements that can cause wear and tear, such as water, sunlight, and salt residue. They can also become breeding grounds for mould and bacteria if not cleaned regularly. As a result, boat carpets need to be replaced every few years. Boat owners can opt to replace their carpets themselves, which can be a rewarding DIY project, or they can choose from a variety of alternative flooring options, such as truck bed liners, snap-in carpets, woven vinyl flooring, or non-skid vinyl flooring.

Removing the old boat carpet

The first step in replacing your boat carpet is to remove the old one. This is the most labor-intensive part of the process, so it's important to be patient and careful. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the removal process:

Prepare the Boat:

Start by securing your trailer with wheel chocks and a dock at the trailer tongue wheel for stability. Disconnect the boat battery and unload all tackle and gear. Take pictures of any components you'll be removing, especially wiring under the dash, to make reassembly easier.

Remove Carpeted Hatches and Panels:

Using a drill, slowly drill out any rivets holding the carpeted hatches and panels in place to avoid breaking them. Place all hardware in labelled bags as you work to keep things organised.

Remove Staples:

Use a heavy-duty staple remover and a gentle twisting motion to remove staples from the carpet. Start in a corner and see if the carpet pulls up easily. Work slowly and handle the carpet gently, as each piece will serve as a pattern for the new carpet.

Label and Remove Carpet:

As you remove each piece of carpet, label the back according to its orientation and location on the boat. For example, you can draw arrows pointing towards the bow. If the carpet is glued down and doesn't come up easily, carefully scrape under it with a utility knife or a vibrating all-purpose tool with a scraper blade. Repeat this process for all panels and hatches, marking their orientation as well.

Inspect and Clean the Deck:

Once all the carpet is removed, inspect the bare deck for any damage, rot, mould, or mildew. Address any issues with a mildew remover before proceeding. It's important to ensure the deck is clean and dry before installing the new carpet.

Remove Adhesive Residue:

All adhesive residue must be removed before installing the new carpet. You can use a chemical glue solvent, but be sure to consult your boat's manufacturer for advice, as some solvents can be difficult to clean up and may affect the adhesion of the new carpet. Alternatively, you can use a heat gun to dissolve stubborn adhesive. After removing the residue, dry-mop the deck and wipe down the hatches with a chamois cloth or mop head. Finally, thoroughly clean the surfaces with warm soapy water and a soft brush, and allow everything to dry completely overnight.

Choosing the right glue

Type of Surface:

The type of surface you're gluing the carpet to is crucial when choosing the right adhesive. Different glues are formulated for different surfaces, such as marine plywood, aluminum, fiberglass, or concrete. Make sure to select a glue that is specifically designed for the material of your boat's surface.

Indoor/Outdoor Adhesive:

If your boat is primarily used outdoors and exposed to the elements, you'll need an adhesive that can withstand these conditions. Indoor/outdoor carpet adhesive is suitable for pontoon boats with marine plywood flooring, as well as rafts and docks. It can also be used for decks, sunrooms, and basements.

Professional Marine-Grade Adhesive:

For a more versatile option, professional marine-grade carpet adhesive can be used on a variety of surfaces, including aluminum fishing boats, fiberglass flooring, and bass boat carpet. It is designed to provide a strong, long-lasting bond and is suitable for both floors and locker lids.

Water-Based vs. Solvent-Based Adhesives:

Water-based adhesives are easy to use and are recommended for marine plywood flooring installations. They are also safer for the environment and won't deteriorate the backing of your carpet over time. Solvent-based adhesives, on the other hand, are flammable and require more caution during installation. They are typically used for aluminum and fiberglass surfaces and provide a strong bond.

Spray Contact Adhesive:

Spray adhesives are ideal for vertical surfaces, locker lid wraps, and small touch-ups. They provide an instant bond, so work slowly and carefully. Spray adhesives are a good option if you're looking for convenience and ease of application.

Coverage and Quantity:

Make sure to calculate the amount of glue you'll need based on the surface area of your boat. Typically, one gallon of marine carpet adhesive is sufficient for an 8' x 10' flat surface area. However, if you're working with larger areas or have a particularly big boat, you'll need to adjust the quantity accordingly.

When choosing the right glue for your boat carpet replacement, it's important to consider the specific requirements of your boat, the type of surface, and the conditions it will be exposed to. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and take the necessary safety precautions during the installation process.

Applying the glue

When applying glue to your boat carpet, there are a few important steps to follow to ensure a smooth and successful process. Here is a detailed guide:

Preparing the Glue

Before you begin, make sure you have chosen the right type of glue for your boat carpet. It is crucial to select a glue that is suitable for marine carpet installation. For instance, latex-based glue is water-soluble and not ideal for this purpose. You can choose from various options, such as indoor/outdoor boat carpet adhesive, professional marine-grade carpet adhesive, or spray contact adhesive, each with its own advantages and application methods. Store and handle the glue at optimal temperatures, ensuring it does not freeze, and bring it to room temperature before use.

Start by rolling back a section of the carpet from one end. Using a notched trowel, apply the marine carpet glue evenly across the exposed deck. Work in small sections to prevent the adhesive from drying before you lay the carpet. You are aiming for a thickness similar to a heavy coat of paint. Be careful not to leave any dry areas or allow glue puddles to form. Allow the glue a few minutes to become tacky before placing the carpet.

Laying the Carpet

Carefully lay the carpet onto the glued surface, ensuring it is straight and free of wrinkles. Smooth out any bubbles or creases. Use a roller or a heavy object, such as a sanded and wrapped 2x6, to press the carpet into the adhesive and create a firm bond. Work from the centre towards the edges to ensure good contact between the carpet and the glue. Repeat this process in sections until you have covered the entire deck.

Final Steps

Once the carpet is installed, use a roller to go over it again and press down any areas that may need extra attention. Allow the glue to set for at least an hour before walking on it. After this initial setting period, you can start reassembling your boat, putting back the seats, fixtures, and hardware. However, it is best to wait at least 24 hours before vacuuming or subjecting the new carpet to foot traffic. For the glue to fully cure, wait 48 hours before taking your boat out on the water.

Laying the new carpet

Prepare the New Carpet:

Firstly, unroll the new carpet on a clean, flat surface with the backing facing up. Ensure that it is oriented in the direction you want it to run on the sundeck. Smooth out any bumps or creases, and weigh down the corners to keep it in place.

Trace and Cut the Carpet:

Place the old carpet pieces on the new carpet, backing side up, starting with the largest sections. Ensure the orientation matches, and weight down the patterns to prevent slipping. Trace each piece with a marker, adding a couple of inches around hatches and panels to allow for wrapping and securing the edges. Cut the carpet with a utility knife, replacing the blade often for a clean cut.

Prepare for Gluing:

Lay the large deck piece(s) on the sundeck, ensuring the carpet is smooth and the edges correspond to the boat's dimensions. Place a heavy object near the centre, as this is where you will start gluing. Gently roll the carpet towards this object without shifting its position.

Apply Glue and Attach Carpet:

Spray or spread a small amount of glue in the centre of the deck and unroll the carpet enough to attach it to the glued area. Once the centre is secure, work in small sections, applying glue and attaching the carpet from the centre outwards. Use a roller or heavy cans to press the carpet down and ensure adhesion.

Secure Hatches and Panels:

For hatches and panels, again, start in the centre, double-checking the carpet orientation. Leave an even margin of carpet on all sides for tucking and fastening. Use clamps or scrap wood to hold the carpet in place as it dries.

Allow Glue to Set:

Let the glue set for at least an hour. After an hour, go over the carpet again with a roller to ensure a strong bond. Finally, put your boat back together, and enjoy your new sundeck carpet!

Securing the new carpet

Now that you have removed the old carpet, it's time to install the new one. Here is a step-by-step guide to securing the new carpet:

Step 1: Prepare the new carpet

Completely unroll the new carpet on a clean surface with the backing facing up. Smooth out any bumps or creases. Ensure the carpet is facing the direction you want it to run. Mark arrows on the backing for reference and weigh down the corners.

Step 2: Create templates

Place the old carpet pieces, backing-side up, on the new carpet. Start with the largest pieces and ensure they are facing the right direction. Weigh down the templates to prevent slipping.

Step 3: Trace and cut the new carpet

Trace each piece of the old carpet onto the new one, using a marker. Remember to trace hatch and panel pieces a couple of inches larger than the templates to allow for wrapping and securing the edges. Use a utility knife or a sturdy box cutter to cut the new carpet. Replace the blade frequently to prevent tears and unravelling. Trim loose fibres with sharp scissors.

Step 4: Prepare the deck

Take the large piece(s) of carpet that will cover the deck and lay them out. Make sure the carpet is smooth and that all edges correspond to the boat's dimensions. Put a heavy object near the centre of the deck.

Step 5: Apply glue

Gently roll the carpet towards the heavy object, being careful not to shift it. Spray or spread glue over a small area in the centre of the deck and unroll the carpet enough to glue it down. Once the centre is secure, apply glue to small areas at a time, working in sections from the centre outwards. Use a floor roller or heavy cans to press down the carpet.

Step 6: Secure the carpet

For hatches and panels, double-check the orientation of the carpet and leave an even margin on all sides for tucking and fastening. Use carpet clamps or scrap wood to ensure the wrapping around the edges stays glued. Allow the glue to set for at least an hour. After an hour, go over it again with the roller.

Step 7: Reassemble the boat

Once the glue has set, put your boat back together.

Frequently asked questions