Replacing Boat Seat Covers: A Step-By-Step Guide

Replacing boat seat covers is a simple DIY project that can be done in an afternoon. It requires few tools and can save you money compared to paying a professional or buying new seats. The first step is to remove the existing boat fabric and take pictures of the old upholstery from multiple angles. You can then use the old seat cover as a pattern to cut the new cover, or order new skins from a company. When you have your new fabric, prep it according to the company's instructions, then install it using common tools such as a stapler, stainless steel staples, and spray adhesive.

Measure and buy the right amount of vinyl

Before you start the process of replacing your boat seat covers, you need to measure and buy the right amount of vinyl. This is a crucial step as you don't want to order too much or too little vinyl fabric.

First, you need to measure the length and width of each section you are reupholstering. This will give you a starting point. Next, you need to account for the depth. Measure the visible depth of the cushion and multiply this number by 2.1. Then, take that figure and add it to the length and width of the cushion. This will give you enough fabric to cover the seat, the sides of the seat, and a bit left over to staple to the bottom of the seat for a professional-looking finish.

When determining how much vinyl to order, keep in mind that marine-grade vinyl typically comes on a roll that is 54 inches wide. Most cushions won't be wider than that, but you can be creative with the layout to optimise the use of the vinyl. Using graph paper or pieces of paper proportionate to the size of the fabric can help you visualise how each cut will come from the roll.

It is generally recommended to order 10% to 20% more vinyl than you think you need to allow for mistakes and miscalculations.

When buying vinyl for your boat seat covers, look for marine-grade vinyl that is UV-resistant, water-resistant, and durable. Avoid darker colours as they absorb heat and can get very hot. Instead, opt for whites, creams, and paler tones.

Remove old seat covers

Before you start, take pictures of the old upholstery from multiple angles while it's still on the boat. This will give you points for comparison when you're putting the new covers on.

Now, remove the seats from the boat and turn them over. You should see where the fabric is stapled to the plywood that forms the seat. Note how much material is stapled in place. Use a screwdriver to carefully pry the staples out of the plywood, trying not to tear the old vinyl.

As you remove each vinyl seat cover, use a marking pen to identify which seat the cover came from by marking the seat location on the old seat cover. Mark the seat bottom with the location as well. Take note of the way the vinyl is attached. Some seat makers make their vinyl corners look like hospital corners, while others gather the bottom edges together and staple them at one or two points, allowing the cushion to push the corners into shape.

Trace, cut and install new vinyl

The first step in replacing your boat seat covers is to remove the old ones. Take pictures of the old upholstery from multiple angles and remove the staples and the skin. Do not cut the skin off, as you risk leaving staples in and messing up your new job.

Now, you can use the old vinyl as a template to cut the new. Take your old boat seat cover and lay it face down onto the new vinyl. Using a grease pencil, trace around it as closely as possible to get a 100% accurate copy. Once you're done tracing, remove the old vinyl. Cut the new boat seat shape out using a pair of sewing scissors.

Place the foam and seat base onto the new vinyl. If your old foam padding is damaged or water-logged, you will need to replace it. You can use the template-cutting method to get the correct shape and size. Place the foam padding onto the newly cut set cover, centring it, and then place the wooden seat base on top.

Now, pull the new cover up and over the edge of the wooden part, stretching it as tightly as you can. Start stapling through the vinyl into the wood with an industrial carpet stapler or tack gun. Only staple a couple in first to keep it in position, then go back and add more staples to make it more secure. Repeat this process with the back end of the seat cover and then the two opposite ends, stapling them into position first with the vinyl pulled as tight as possible. Flip the seat around and add more staples, leaving 2cm gaps.

Finally, apply some vinyl protection spray. This is optional but can help your seats last longer.

Staple or sew new covers into place

Stapling or sewing new covers into place is a crucial step in the boat seat replacement process. It requires precision and attention to detail to ensure a secure and aesthetically pleasing finish. Here's a detailed guide on how to tackle this task:

Preparation:

Before you begin stapling or sewing, gather the necessary tools and materials. This includes an industrial stapler or carpet tacker with staples, a staple gun, or a sewing machine. If you opt for sewing, ensure you have needles and thread that match the colour of your vinyl. It is also recommended to have scissors, a grease pencil, and vinyl protection spray.

Step 1: Measure and Cut:

Start by measuring the vinyl and foam for your new boat seat covers. Remove the old covers and use them as templates to cut the new vinyl. Place the old cover on the new vinyl and trace around it with a grease pencil, ensuring accuracy. Cut out the new boat seat shape using scissors.

Step 2: Assemble the Layers:

Place the foam padding onto the newly cut seat cover, centring it. If you are using new foam, cut it to the correct shape and size beforehand. Then, place the wooden seat base on top of the foam. Ensure the layers are properly aligned.

Step 3: Staple or Sew:

This is the crucial step where you secure the new cover in place. Start by pulling the front edge of the new cover towards you and over the edge of the wooden seat base. Stretch it tightly, aiming for maximum tautness.

If using a stapler, begin stapling through the vinyl into the wood, starting with just a couple of staples to hold the cover in place. Then, go back and add more staples every 2 cm to secure it firmly. Repeat this process for the back end and the opposite ends of the seat cover, always stapling with the vinyl pulled tight.

If sewing, use a needle and thread (or a sewing machine) to replicate the current stitch pattern or create your own. Sewing machines can be dangerous, so proceed with caution. Sew across the seams, especially those with multiple layers of fabric. Remember to sew straight lines and use forward and reverse stitching to secure the thread at the start and end of each seam.

Step 4: Final Checks and Protection:

Once you've stapled or sewn the new cover in place, flip the seat around and add more staples or stitches as needed to ensure a secure fit. Check that the cover is smooth and wrinkle-free. Finally, apply a vinyl protection spray (optional) to enhance the weather resistance of your new boat seat covers.

Apply vinyl protection spray

To apply vinyl protection spray to your boat seats, follow these steps:

Step 1: Clean Your Boat Upholstery

Use a good-quality boat vinyl cleaner, such as Gold Eagle's 303® Multi-Surface Cleaner, or Better Boat's Vinyl Cleaner. Spray a light coat of the cleaner directly onto the seat and let it sit for about a minute. Then, use a soft brush to work the cleaner into the vinyl using circular strokes and applying very little pressure. Go over the entire surface of the seat in segments, and use a toothbrush for the piping and crevices. Finally, use a towel to remove the loosened dirt and grime.

Step 2: Protect Your Vinyl Boat Upholstery

After your vinyl boat seats have been thoroughly cleaned, protect them with a product like 303 Aerospace Protectant, 303 Marine Aerospace Protectant, or Better Boat's Vinyl Protectant. Spray the protectant onto the cleaned vinyl surface and wipe the area completely dry. For greater bonding and longevity, buff the surface a few times with a dry cloth. Repeat this process, along with cleaning, every three to five weeks to maximize UV protection.

Step 3: Maintain Regular Care

To ensure your boat's vinyl surfaces stay clean, protected, and looking their best, perform this cleaning and protecting protocol every time you use your boat. When your boat is sitting idle, follow this routine at least weekly. Additionally, consider using slip-on boat seat covers or accessory boat seat cushions to provide extra protection from sunlight and wear.

Step 4: Address Specific Types of Damage

If your boat is exposed to saltwater, wash the salt off the vinyl upholstery after each use to prevent salt crystals from causing abrasion and cracking. Use a soap specifically formulated for vinyl boat upholstery, and avoid bleach or cleaners with high alcohol content. For mould and mildew damage, focus on keeping the inside of the boat dry and well-ventilated. If mould and mildew stains occur, use a mildew stain remover, and then rinse the vinyl thoroughly.

Frequently asked questions