Buyer's Guide
If you have a boat, then you probably already know what kind of decking you'd like to use. However, choosing the right material isn't always easy - especially as there are so many options available. This article explains why you might want to opt for wood, plastic, composite or rubber, and gives you tips on where to get the best deals.
Boat decks are flat surfaces located above the hulls of boats. Boat decks provide an area for passengers to stand while boarding and disembarking the boat. They may also serve as a work space for maintenance crews. Boat decks are typically made of wood planks, but some boats have fiberglass or composite decks instead.
Boat decks are more durable than wooden floors because they are less likely to warp or crack due to moisture damage. Fiberglass and composite decks are also lighter than wooden decks, making them easier to move around if necessary. Composite decks are also much stronger than wooden decks, meaning they won't splinter or break under heavy loads like wooden decks will.
No! You don't need to install your own boat decking. We offer many different options for installing boat decking, including pre-cut boards, ready-to-assemble kits, and custom cut pieces. If you're looking for something specific, we can help you find what you need.
Boat decks are one of the most common additions to boats. But do you know how to install them? Here are some tips to help you decide which type of boat decking is right for you.
The best types of boat decking are made of wood. Wood is strong and durable. However, it does require regular maintenance. Over time, wood can warp and rot. To prevent this, use epoxy resin to seal the seams where the boards meet. Then apply a clear coat every year or two. This keeps water away from the wood and prevents mold growth.
Another advantage of using wood is its ability to absorb sound. When you walk across a wooden deck, you'll hear a hollow thump. This is caused by air trapped inside the wood. As long as you avoid walking directly over the deck, you shouldn't notice any noise problems.
Wooden boat decks are typically installed with screws. These fasteners are inexpensive and easy to remove. However, they can loosen over time. If you plan to live aboard your boat, you'll probably want to replace these sooner rather than later. Wooden boat decks are also susceptible to damage from heavy objects falling off the boat. Therefore, you might want to invest in a stronger alternative.
Metal boat decks are another popular choice. Metal is lightweight and corrosion resistant. However, metal doesn't expand and contract like wood. This makes it difficult to attach things such as cleats. Also, metal isn't very attractive. If you want a deck that looks nice, look elsewhere.
Finally, plastic boat decks are becoming increasingly popular. Plastic is light and flexible. It's also extremely durable. However, it has several drawbacks. First, plastic tends to crack and break easily. Second, it's not as sturdy as other materials. Third, it takes longer to dry after being wet. Finally, plastic is flammable. Make sure you follow all safety precautions before installing a plastic boat deck.
In summary, boat decks are a must for anyone who plans to spend time on board. Whether you prefer wooden, metal, or plastic, here are some tips to help you select the perfect boat deck for your boat.
Do you have questions about boat decks? Contact us today! We'd love to answer any questions you have about our products.
Boat floors are among the most overlooked aspects of boating. Yet, they play a huge role in keeping your boat running smoothly. Without proper boat flooring, you could experience serious issues. From leaking bilge pumps to slipping hulls, boat floors are critical components of your vessel.
Boat decks are one of the most important parts of any boat. They provide a place where you can sit, stand, eat, sleep, and even play. A properly designed boat deck should have certain qualities. These include durability, safety, and beauty. Let's take a closer look at how to ensure that you purchase a quality boat deck:
Durability. Durability refers to the ability of a product to withstand wear and tear. When selecting boat decking, look for products that are constructed from materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, composite, and plastic. Aluminum is lightweight, strong, and durable. Stainless steel is corrosion resistant and easy to clean. Composite material is extremely durable and very attractive. Plastic is light, flexible, and affordable. All of these materials are suitable for use on boat decks.
Safety. Safety is another key factor to consider when buying boat decking. Make sure that the boat deck you select meets industry standards. For example, if you plan to install solar panels on your boat, make sure that the deck is rated for electrical contact. This ensures that your boat won't short circuit.
Beauty. Beauty refers to the appearance of a product. You want something that looks nice and matches the rest of your boat. There are many different types of boat decking available. Each type offers unique advantages and disadvantages. For instance, wood decking is beautiful and natural, but it may warp over time. Vinyl decking is highly durable and waterproof, but it doesn't match the appearance of other boat decking choices.
If you're looking for a boat deck that provides durability, safety, and beauty, then you'll find exactly what you're looking for in a quality boat deck. Just keep in mind that every boat deck has its pros and cons. Be sure to do your research so you can buy the best boat deck for your needs.
Boat decks are often overlooked, but they play a big role in keeping boats afloat. They protect the hulls from damage caused by rough seas and prevent moisture from building up inside the boat. In addition, they give the boat a finished appearance and add style to the overall design.
When you're shopping for a new boat deck, there are several features to consider. Here are three important factors to think about when selecting a boat deck.
The first factor to consider is durability. How well does the material hold up over time? Does it withstand extreme weather conditions? Is it resistant to UV rays? Do the seams stay tight? Are the edges smooth?
Appearance. Next, how do the decking materials look? What color options are available? Can you customize the colors?
Cost. Finally, how much does this deck cost? How much did it cost to install? Will it break down quickly?
If you're thinking about installing a boat deck yourself, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Start with a plan. Before starting work, take the time to sketch out what you'd like to accomplish. This will help you determine where to place each piece of wood. Once you've sketched out your plans, you can start gathering supplies.
Measure twice. Measure everything carefully. Make sure you measure the width, length, height, and depth of each board. Then, double check those measurements against the dimensions listed on the manufacturer's website.
Use quality tools. Use only high-quality tools to cut boards. Choose saw blades made specifically for cutting hardwoods such as mahogany, teak, cedar, and redwood. Use a circular saw with a 3/8" blade if you're using plywood. And always wear safety goggles when working near power tools.
Install properly. Install decking according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Follow these steps:
Boat decks are important parts of any boat. They protect the hull from damage caused by debris hitting the boat. Boat decks also act as a place to walk around on while onboard. A well maintained boat deck should look good and feel smooth underfoot. Here are some things to consider when choosing what kind of boat decking to use.
Wood Decking. Wood decking is the traditional material used for boat decks. It is strong, durable, and long lasting. It does however require regular maintenance. Over time wood decking can become warped and splintery. To prevent this, you should apply a clear coat every few years. Wooden boats are also susceptible to rot and termites. For this reason, wooden boat decks should always be treated against these pests.
Composite Decking. Composite decking is becoming increasingly popular. It is lightweight and low cost. It is also resistant to warping and rotting. Composite decking is also stain resistant. It requires less maintenance than wood and lasts longer. Unfortunately, composite decking cannot be stained. This means that it will never match the color of your boat’s interior.
Metal Decking. Metal decking is a modern alternative to wood. It is light weight, corrosion free, and looks great. It is also fireproof. It is also very affordable. Unfortunately, metal decking is not suitable for outdoor applications. It is prone to rusting and cracking. It is therefore recommended that metal decking be installed indoors.
Plastic Decking. Plastic decking is a newer alternative to wood and metal. It is inexpensive and lightweight. It is also highly flexible. It is also UV protected. Unfortunately, plastic decking is not waterproof. Therefore, it needs to be sealed regularly.
FAQs
Boat decking refers to the surface of a boat's hull that covers the area between the gunwale and the waterline.
Boat decking comes from recycled plastic bottles. Plastic bottles have been around since the 1950s, but they were first used for boat decking during World War II. Boat owners could use the plastic bottles to protect their boats from saltwater corrosion.
No, boat decking doesn't get slippery when wet. Instead, boat decking becomes more durable when it gets wet.
You don't necessarily need to buy boat decking. Many boat owners choose to install wood planks instead of boat decking. Wood planks are easier to clean than boat decking and they look nicer.
Most boat decks are installed at home improvement stores like Lowe's and Home Depot.
Most boat decks last about five years. If your boat deck starts looking dirty after two years, then it needs replacing.
No, boat decking won't rot your boat. Boat decking is waterproof, meaning that it keeps out moisture.
Installing boat decking helps to keep your boat cleaner. Boat decking also makes your boat safer. When your boat has no boat decking, then the bottom of your boat can easily slip off into the water. With boat decking, this problem goes away.
One disadvantage of installing boat decking is that it takes longer to install than wood planks. Another downside of installing boat decking is that it requires maintenance. Boat owners must regularly sweep dirt and debris off of their boat decking.
If you're unsure whether your boat decking looks good enough, then take a close look at it. Look for cracks, holes, stains, and signs of mold growth.
Yes, you can install boat decking yourself. All you'll need is a hammer, nails, screws, and a drill. To make things even easier, most boat decking comes pre-drilled and ready to go.
To install boat decking, all you'll need is a hammer, screwdriver, and a drill. A power sander would also be helpful, but isn't necessary.
Measure your boat decking with a tape measure. Measure the width and height of your boat decking. Then multiply those numbers together to determine how many square feet of boat decking you need.
Cutting boat decking is easy. Simply lay your boat decking flat on the ground. Use a circular saw to cut through the center of each board. Cut along the edge of the boards until you reach the end of the line. Then flip the board over and repeat the process on the back side.
Install boat decking by driving three 1/2 inch drywall screws every six inches apart. Make sure to drive the screws straight into the wood. Don't worry too much about making perfect lines. As long as you've got a smooth finish, then you're good.