The Benefits Of Vinyl Boat Seats

what is vinyl boat seats

Vinyl boat seats are made from a durable material that is resistant to water exposure. Vinyl is commonly used for boat seats because it is designed to withstand wear and tear and is resistant to mould and mildew. It is also UV-treated to prevent sun-induced fading. Vinyl boat seats are easy to clean and maintain, requiring regular washing with dish soap and water, or a vinyl cleaner, and immediate drying to prevent moisture buildup.

Characteristics Values
Durability Very durable
Waterproof Yes
Ease of cleaning Easy to clean with a vinyl cleaner
Mildew resistance Yes
UV resistance Yes
Salt resistance Yes
Weatherproof Yes
Flexibility Has a slight stretch
Thickness Not too thick or too thin
Applications Boat seats, cushions, indoor/outdoor furniture, car seats, heavy equipment seats, motorcycles, snowmobiles

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Vinyl boat seat maintenance

Vinyl boat seats are susceptible to mildew and mould due to the moisture and humidity in their environment. Therefore, regular cleaning and maintenance are required to prevent this.

Do's:

  • Wash vinyl seats regularly with dish soap and water, carefully scrubbing each seat with a cloth to remove dirt, sweat, and debris.
  • Wipe down the seats until they are completely dry.
  • Use a protective sealant to prevent the onset of mildew or mould. Research which product is best suited for your fabric and follow the directions carefully.
  • Be diligent with your cleaning routine. Preventing mildew is easier than removing it.
  • Store your boat in a dry, ventilated area when not in use, especially during winter.

Don'ts:

  • Let your vinyl seats air dry after washing, as this provides the perfect conditions for mildew to grow.
  • Skip cleaning sessions, especially if your instructions recommend a monthly sealant application.
  • Treat mildew with bleach. While it will kill mould, it can also damage your seat cushions and lead to early replacement.
  • Expect your mildew remover to work instantly. Removing mildew from vinyl is challenging and requires regular maintenance.

Additional Tips:

  • Keep your seats covered when not in use to extend their lifespan and reduce fading.
  • Take precautions to avoid stains. For example, don't allow passengers on board with new, unwashed clothing.
  • For light cleaning, brush off any loose dirt, then use a sponge or soft-bristled brush with a mild soap and water solution. Rinse and allow the fabric to air dry.
  • For heavier cleaning, use a product such as 303 Multi-Surface Cleaner, Dawn, or Resolve.
  • Always follow the cleaning process with a vinyl protectant to condition the material and protect it from UV rays.

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Benefits of vinyl for boat seats

Marine-grade vinyl is a popular choice for boat or marine upholstery due to its many benefits. Here are some advantages of using vinyl for boat seats:

Durability and Longevity

Marine vinyl is designed to be durable and long-lasting. It is resistant to tearing and abrasion, even with heavy use and frequent exposure to the elements. This makes it a great choice for boat seats, which are subject to constant wear and tear from use and the harsh conditions of marine environments.

Water Resistance

One of the most crucial qualities of boat seating vinyl is its ability to repel water. Marine-grade vinyl is designed with a waterproof backing, preventing water from seeping through and reaching the underlying cushion. This feature protects the seat cushions from water damage, such as rot and mildew, ensuring they stay dry and comfortable even in wet conditions.

Easy Maintenance and Cleanliness

Vinyl boat seats are easy to maintain and keep clean. Regular washing with dish soap and water can help prevent mildew build-up, and the use of a protective sealant can further inhibit the growth of mildew or mould. Additionally, vinyl's smooth surface makes it easy to wipe down and keep free of dirt, sweat, and debris.

UV Protection

Marine environments often expose upholstery to prolonged sun exposure, which can cause fading and degradation over time. Marine-grade vinyl offers UV protection, helping to maintain the colour and appearance of the upholstery for longer. This feature is especially important for boats that spend significant time in sunny conditions.

Antimicrobial Properties

Some types of marine vinyl also have antimicrobial properties, inhibiting the growth of mould and mildew. This feature not only helps maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of the boat but also extends the life of the upholstery by preventing the damage caused by these microorganisms.

Overall, vinyl is an excellent choice for boat seats due to its durability, water resistance, ease of maintenance, and protection against UV rays and microorganisms. It provides a comfortable and long-lasting seating solution for boat owners, enhancing their enjoyment of their marine adventures.

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Cleaning vinyl boat seats

Vinyl boat seats are designed to provide lasting protection and prevent damage like moulding, sun exposure, fading, and other kinds of wear and tear. However, to ensure they remain in good condition, regular cleaning and maintenance are required.

How to Clean Vinyl Boat Seats:

Regular Cleaning:

  • Wash vinyl seats regularly with dish soap and warm water after each use. Use a cloth to scrub and clean the seats to remove dirt, sweat, and debris.
  • Avoid air-drying the seats after washing. Instead, wipe them down until they are completely dry to prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to mildew growth.
  • Stock your first-aid kit with alcohol wipes for quick spot cleaning.

Deep Cleaning:

  • Perform deep cleaning at least twice a month, or as needed for significant spills or stains.
  • Use a mild soap solution and a soft cloth or sponge to wipe the vinyl in a circular motion, avoiding water pooling in the seams.
  • Rinse the seats with clean water and a clean cloth to remove excess soap.
  • After cleaning, allow the seats to dry completely before applying a vinyl cleaner with a soft-bristled brush or clean cloth.

Removing Tough Stains:

  • For tough stains, use a small mix of alcohol and water with a soft brush in a circular motion.
  • Avoid using harsh cleaners or chemicals like ammonia, bleach, Windex, or Simple Green, as they can damage the vinyl material.

Protecting and Maintaining:

  • Clean your boat seats regularly, following the instructions above.
  • Use a marine vinyl conditioner and protector a few times a year to maintain the vinyl's quality.
  • Utilise boat seat covers when the boat is not in use to shield the seats from sun exposure and moisture.
  • Store your boat in a dry, ventilated area when not in use for extended periods, such as during the winter, to prevent mould and mildew growth.
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Choosing vinyl for boat seats

When choosing vinyl for boat seats, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best material for your needs. Firstly, it is important to select a vinyl fabric designed specifically for boat upholstery, as this will provide the necessary protection against the elements and typical wear and tear. Marine vinyl has special additives to protect against UV rays, mould, mildew, cold temperatures and saltwater.

The next step is to consider the location of your vinyl. Interior vinyl is designed to mimic the look of leather and is suitable for saloon cushions and home décor upholstery, whereas exterior vinyl is designed for all-weather exposure on boats, motorcycles, snowmobiles and golf carts.

The material of the fabric is another key consideration. Vinyl can be made from either polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyurethane (PU). PVC is typically more affordable, durable, and easier to tailor, whereas PU looks more like real leather, adapts to body heat, and is more expensive.

The weight of the material is also important. Heavier vinyl is more durable and better able to withstand weather and abrasion, but it is also more challenging to sew and tends to be more expensive.

Finally, consider any topical treatments the vinyl may have. For example, some treatments can block bacterial and fungal microorganisms, while others can prevent the growth of mould and mildew.

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Types of vinyl for boat seats

Marine vinyl is a special type of vinyl that is designed to protect boat seats from the elements, including UV rays, mould, mildew, cold temperatures, and saltwater. It is made with a PVC top layer and a knit polyester backing, which is strong and durable.

There are various types of vinyl available for boat seats, which vary in terms of their composition, thickness, and intended use. Here are some of the most common types:

  • Flexa Marine Vinyl: This is a premium marine vinyl that is mould/mildew resistant, UV treated, and third-party tested for quality. It is designed to be the perfect thickness for boat upholstery, as it is durable yet easy to stretch. It is also soft, slightly stretchy, and scratch-resistant.
  • Regular Vinyl: This type of vinyl is prone to tearing with minor wear and tear and does not offer the same level of protection as marine vinyl. It is not designed to withstand the harsh elements that marine vinyl can, such as UV rays, mould, and saltwater.
  • Marine-Grade Vinyl Upholstery Fabric: This type of vinyl is designed to provide lasting protection for boat seats and help prevent damage like moulding, sun exposure, fading, and other wear and tear that can occur to improperly lined seats. It comes in various colours and patterns to match the boat's existing colour scheme and décor.
  • Transparent Vinyl: This type of vinyl is often used for boat windows and enclosures, as it provides visibility while protecting against the elements.
  • Custom Printed Vinyl: This type of vinyl allows you to create a custom design or pattern for your boat seats, allowing for personalisation and customisation.
  • Geometric Patterns Vinyl: This type of vinyl features geometric patterns and designs, adding a unique touch to your boat seats.

When choosing vinyl for boat seats, it is important to consider the specific needs and requirements of your boat. Factors such as climate, exposure to sunlight and saltwater, and the level of protection needed should be taken into account to select the most appropriate type of vinyl.

Frequently asked questions

Vinyl boat seats are cushioned boat seats made from a durable material that holds up well to water exposure. Marine-grade vinyl upholstery fabric is designed to provide lasting protection and prevent damage like moulding, sun exposure, fading, and other kinds of wear and tear.

Vinyl boat seats are designed to be salt proof, UV resistant, mildew resistant, and weatherproof. They are also easy to clean and maintain, which helps to prevent damage and extend their lifespan.

Marine vinyl upholstery fabric can be purchased from specialist suppliers such as All Vinyl Fabrics and Fabric Warehouse.

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