Keep Your Aluminum Boat Deck Cool This Summer

If you're looking to cool off the deck of your aluminium fishing boat, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, the colour of your boat plays a significant role in temperature regulation. Dark colours absorb more heat, so opting for a lighter colour, especially white, can help keep your boat's deck cooler. Additionally, insulation is key. A thin layer of white paint may not be sufficient, but a product like Durabak, made from polyurethane, can provide the necessary insulation while also protecting your boat from fish guts and inhibiting overheating. If you're looking for other options, there are products like SeaDek, HydroTurf, Tuff Coat, and Raptor Liner that can also help cool your boat's deck.

Paint the deck white to reflect heat

Painting your boat's deck white is a great way to reflect heat and keep your boat cool. White reflects sunlight, preventing the deck from absorbing heat and warming up. This is especially important if your boat will be in direct sunlight for extended periods.

When painting your deck, it is essential to follow the correct procedure to ensure a durable and long-lasting finish. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

• Prepare the Boat's Surface: Start by removing all gear and components from the deck. This includes things like benches, cup holders, and any other removable items. Be careful when removing structural components like benches, as they provide support to the boat. Once everything is cleared, give the deck a thorough wash to remove any dirt, mould, or sand. This step is crucial if you plan on painting, as it ensures the paint will adhere properly.
• Design and Plan: Before you begin painting, it's important to have a clear plan and design in mind. Consider the layout of your boat and how you intend to use it. For example, will you be standing or sitting while casting? Will you be trolling, drifting, or anchoring? The answers to these questions will influence the design and placement of components on your deck.
• Build the Deck Support Skeleton: Construct a sturdy support structure for your deck using 2" x 2" wooden beams. Cut and shape the beams to fit the contours of your boat, and connect them securely with screws. Be sure to include vertical supports to bear the weight of the deck.
• Cut the Deck Pieces: Use cardboard to create templates for your deck pieces, then transfer the shapes onto plywood and cut them out using a jigsaw. Test the fit in the boat, and make any necessary adjustments. Mark and cut out holes for doors, cup holders, rod holders, and other accessories.
• Add Support and Refine Details: If you removed any structural components, use 2" x 8" lumber to reinforce the sides of the hull and connect them to the deck. You can also add seat risers at this stage if desired. Additionally, consider including a built-in minnow bucket by cutting a hole in the seat and installing a bucket.
• Final Cleaning and Priming: Remove all newly constructed components from the boat and give the entire boat a thorough vacuum and wipe-down. Use vinegar to clean bare aluminium areas, and once everything is dry, apply a coat of cold galvanizing compound to protect the aluminium. After the primer has dried, tape off any areas you don't want to paint.
• Paint the Deck: Now it's time to paint your deck white! Apply several light coats of spray paint, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly before adding the next. Make sure to wear a paint mask and safety glasses during this step to protect yourself from paint fumes and overspray.
• Finish and Reassemble: Once the paint has dried, reassemble your boat by screwing down the decks and attaching hinges, cabinet catches, and flush pull handles. Reinstall any removable components you removed at the beginning of the process, such as benches, cup holders, and gear.

By following these steps, you can effectively paint your boat's deck white, reflecting heat and keeping your boat cool during fishing trips. Remember to take your time, work in a well-ventilated area, and always put safety first.

Cover the deck with a beach towel

Covering the deck of your aluminum fishing boat with a beach towel is a great way to keep the deck cool and protect it from the sun's rays. Here are some detailed instructions on how to do this effectively:

First, choose a suitable beach towel. Look for towels made from microfiber as these are more absorbent than regular cotton towels and will help keep the deck cool. Also, consider getting a towel with an integrated strap, so you can secure it to the deck and prevent it from blowing away. You can find beach towels in various sizes, so make sure to get one that is large enough to cover most of the deck.

Before placing the towel, ensure the deck is clean and dry. Use a mild detergent and warm water to wash away any dirt, grime, or fish residue. Rinse thoroughly and allow the deck to air-dry completely. This step is crucial as it will help the towel stay in place and prevent the growth of mildew or mold.

Once the deck is prepared, lay out your beach towel, ensuring it covers as much of the deck as possible. If your towel has an integrated strap, secure it to the deck or the boat's handrails. You can also use clips or hooks to keep the towel in place, especially if it's windy.

If you plan to be out on the water for an extended period, consider bringing an extra beach towel or two. That way, you can replace the towel if it gets wet or dirty. It's also a good idea to let the used towel dry in the sun before storing it to prevent mildew growth.

By following these simple steps, you can effectively use a beach towel to keep your aluminum boat's fishing deck cool and protected from the elements. Remember to choose the right type of towel, ensure the deck is clean and dry, and secure the towel properly. With proper care, your fishing deck will remain in good condition for years to come.

Use a tiller to keep the deck cool

A tiller is a device used to prepare soil for planting and cultivating. It can be used to keep your deck cool by removing obstructions such as rocks, large stones, and tree roots that may prevent you from effectively cooling your deck. Here are some ways you can use a tiller to keep your deck cool:

Remove Existing Plants and Weeds

The purpose of tilling is to prepare the soil for new plants, so removing old growth is essential. Use a shovel to dig into the ground around the roots of existing plants or weeds, and then pull them out by hand. This will help create a clear and obstruction-free area for effective cooling.

Remove Obstructions

Large rocks, stones, and tree roots can get in the way of your deck cooling efforts and the tiller itself. By using a tiller, you can move these obstructions and create a more even and coolable surface. Walk up and down the deck area with a wheelbarrow, collecting any rocks or roots that may hinder your cooling process.

Test and Amend the Soil

Different plants require specific soil conditions to thrive. Test your soil's type and pH using a test kit or by sending a sample for analysis. Amend the soil as needed to create favourable conditions for your desired plants. For example, sprinkle lime or wood ash for acidic soil or add sawdust, peat moss, or compost for alkaline soil.

Use a Motorized Tiller

For larger deck areas, a motorized tiller will be more efficient. Start by setting the depth adjuster to control the tilling depth. Put on personal safety equipment, including safety glasses, long sleeves, pants, and heavy boots, to protect yourself from projectiles. Turn on the machine, open the throttle, engage the choke, and pull the cord to start the engine.

Engage the Tines and Start Tilling

Once the engine is running, engage the tines by squeezing the levers under each handle. Control the forward motion by pulling back on the handles while pushing down to lift the tines out of the soil. To start tilling, tip the tiller forward, pushing the tines into the soil, and walk forward at a steady pace.

By following these steps and utilizing a tiller, you can effectively remove obstructions, prepare the soil, and begin the cooling process for your aluminum boat fishing deck.

Opt for a light-coloured deck

If you want to keep your boat deck cool, one of the simplest solutions is to opt for a light-coloured deck. This is because darker colours absorb more heat, so a dark-coloured boat will get hotter in the sun. Even bright colours like reds and yellows can get extremely hot.

The only colour that does not attract heat is white, as white reflects all visible wavelengths of light. So, if you want a nice cool boat floor, go for white. However, bear in mind that white paint on its own won't do the trick; you'll need a super-insulator that's light, thin, and suitable for a boat floor.

One option is Durabak, a unique polyurethane formula ideal for boat floors and decks. It's available in 16+ colours and in smooth and textured versions. Durabak is formulated to be UV and saltwater-resistant, and its flexibility and strength will add years to your boat.

Another option is to use a product like SeaDek, Tuff Coat, or HydroTurf. These products are designed to keep boat decks cool and provide essential grip. They are also easy to work with and hold up well.

Apply Durabak to the deck

Applying Durabak to the deck of your aluminium fishing boat is a great way to protect it from wear and tear and to keep the surface slip-resistant and safe. Durabak is a waterproof, weatherproof, and saltwater-resistant coating that will keep your boat's deck sealed and secure. It is also heat and UV-resistant, sound and vibration-dampening, and extremely impact-resistant.

Before applying Durabak, you will need to prepare the surface of your boat's deck. Here are the steps you should follow:

• Clean the surface thoroughly with a non-chlorinated detergent.
• Roughen the surface with 40-grit sandpaper. If you are coating high-grade aluminium, you may need to use a primer that matches the grade of aluminium.
• Once the surface is completely dry, apply the first coat of Durabak.
• After the first coat is touch-dry (usually within 1-2 hours), apply the second coat of Durabak.
• Let the second coat dry for at least 24 hours before walking on it. The complete cure time is about 5-6 days, so avoid heavy use during this period.

When applying Durabak, you can use a brush, paint roller, or spray gun. For the best results, use two coats of Durabak: one rough coat and one smooth coat. This will give you a slip-resistant and easy-to-clean finish. Make sure to apply Durabak in temperatures between 32 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity above 40%.

To calculate how much Durabak you will need, measure the width and length of the deck to get the square footage. One gallon of textured Durabak covers approximately 60 square feet in a two-coat application, while one gallon of smooth Durabak covers about 75 square feet.

Frequently asked questions