10 Best Boat Floor Replacement Materials
If you want to replace your boat’s floor, but you are concerned about the material of the boat, then here are the 10 best boat floor replacement materials
Replacing all of the deckings on a boat can be an expensive job, which is why many people turn to cheaper alternatives such as marine plywood and vinyl floor tiles. Although this is a cheap alternative, it will not provide a long term solution. If you plan to keep your boat for several more years, going with a professional re-decking service would be your best bet. However, if you need a cheap fix, then consider some of these inexpensive ways to replace your boat floor.
So, what the best boat floor replacement materials?
1. Woven Fiberglass
Woven fibreglass material is very similar to linoleum, but it’s made from woven fibreglass. This boat floor replacement material has a slight texture and can be found in various colours. Although it is not recommended for boats with bilge pumps, this material does provide some cushion to walk on. Since the woven fibreglass is thin, you will need to add extra plywood for support underneath the fibreglass since marine plywood cannot hold screws when wet.
2. Vinyl Floor Tiles
Another great option for replacing your boat flooring is vinyl floor tiles. Vinyl tile comes in many different colours and materials, such as high-gloss or matte finish. The thin nature of these tiles makes them easy to cut around curves and corners, which would commonly break standard tile sheets. The downside, however, is that it doesn’t offer much cushion underfoot.
3. Solid Vinyl
Most people would suggest looking for a thick tile if you need something that will provide some cushion. Although this material does offer more comfort under your feet, the downside is that it’s typically more expensive than other options.
4. Marine Plywood
Marine plywood provides an affordable way of replacing damaged or rotted woods on your boat. Marine plywood is great because you won’t have to worry about material warping, swelling, or to shrink since it’s specifically made for humidity and water. Simply cut out your old flooring with a jigsaw, attach the marine plywood using screws, and sand down any rough edges. It might not be as pretty as some of these other materials, but it offers a long-term solution to your flooring needs.
5. Canvas
For a more natural look, consider using canvas to replace your boat flooring. Canvas is made from woven fibre and can be found in many different sizes depending on how many areas you need to be covered. Although canvas provides a nice cushion underfoot, it does take some time to dry out after taking a swim in the ocean. If you want an inexpensive solution for replacing your boat floor, then consider one of the materials above. However, if you own a valuable or antique boat, going with a professional re-decking service will offer the best results down the road.
6. Speciality Paints
Speciality paints are a great way to spruce up flooring made from marine plywood or vinyl tiles. Marine paint is specially designed to protect the wood against water, moisture, and sunlight. To use this material, you simply need to cut out your old flooring using a jigsaw, clean the area with denatured alcohol, spread on some primer, then follow with two coats of marine paint. This will provide years of protection for your boat’s wooden deck without having to spend thousands of dollars on re-decking.
7. Aluminium
Certainly it’s not very practical, aluminium makes for a great replacement flooring option. Popular in race boats, aluminium is strong and lightweight, allowing you to cut out repair areas quickly and easily. It is also rust-proof which means that this material will always look brand new even after years of abuse. The downside, however, is that it doesn’t provide much cushion underfoot, making it uncomfortable to walk on, especially while barefoot or wearing socks.
8. Reinforced Concrete
One of the most expensive options for replacing your boat floor, but by far one of the best choices. When done right, reinforced concrete can last a lifetime without showing any signs of wear and tear. This is probably the only way to get a professional re-decking service done right without spending thousands of dollars. However, you will have to weigh out the benefits before deciding on this material since it’s not exactly practical.
9. Marine Vinyl
Marine vinyl is a great choice for replacing your boat floor because it comes in many different colours and can be found in a high-gloss or matte finish. The thin nature of these tiles makes them easy to cut around curves and corners, which would commonly break standard tile sheets. Even though marine vinyl offers a great cushion underfoot, it does take some time to dry out after taking a swim in the ocean. If you want an inexpensive solution for replacing your boat floor, then consider one of the materials above. However, if you own a valuable or antique boat, going with a professional re-decking service will offer the best results down the road.
10. Linoleum
Linoleum is a great choice for those who don’t like the idea of spending money on expensive floorings such as vinyl or carpet. This material will last forever without having to show any signs of wear and tear. It provides some cushion underfoot, but since it’s made from natural elements such as cork and rubber, it can be a little slippery when wet. If you’re going to use linoleum for your boat floor, stick with a non-glossy style that offers enough traction to prevent slips and falls.
Conclusion
Surely there are many different materials for replacing your boat floor, these suggestions of best boat floor replacement materials will provide you with the best results at an affordable price. When choosing any of the above materials, always consider how much time and money is required to complete the job before making a final decision.
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