Carpeting Boat Rails: A Step-By-Step Guide

Putting carpet on boat rails is a simple task that can be done by anyone with the right tools and instructions. The process involves removing the old carpet, cleaning the surface, cutting the new carpet to size, applying adhesive, and smoothing out any bubbles. It is important to use marine-grade carpet and adhesive to ensure the carpet can withstand tough marine conditions and prevent mould and mildew. Additionally, one should aim to install the carpet without seams to achieve a seamless look.

Choosing the right glue

For gluing marine carpet to marine plywood flooring, you can use an indoor/outdoor boat carpet adhesive. This type of glue is also suitable for similar surfaces such as rafts and docks. If you're gluing to aluminium fishing boats or fiberglass flooring, opt for a professional marine-grade carpet adhesive. This type of glue is more versatile and can also be used on marine plywood and rafts.

If you need to glue vertical surfaces, such as bass boat lids, a spray contact adhesive is the best choice as it forms an instant bond. For horizontal surfaces, a glue applied with a trowel is more suitable.

When selecting a glue, it's important to consider the drying and curing time. Some glues require several days of warm, dry weather or a heated shop to cure properly. Cold weather and rain can inhibit bonding, so it's crucial to check the weather conditions before starting your project.

Additionally, make sure to use the correct amount of glue. Each one-gallon pail of carpet adhesive typically covers an 8' by 10' area of marine carpet. Using too little glue can compromise the adhesion of your carpet.

Some popular options for marine carpet adhesives include Kwik Grip Vertical Contact Adhesive, 3M Super 77 Spray Adhesive, and Henry Indoor/Outdoor Carpet Adhesive.

Preparing the carpet

Step 1: Roll Out the Carpet

Before you begin cutting and installing, it is a good idea to roll out the new carpet and lay it in the sun for a while. This helps to make the carpet more pliable and easier to work with. Aim to leave it in the sun for at least 15 to 20 minutes, or a few hours if possible. This process will also help to remove any wrinkles from the carpet.

Step 2: Measure and Cut the Carpet

Measuring and cutting the carpet accurately is crucial. First, measure the widest carpeted area of your boat. Then, measure the lengths of each piece, adding some extra for wrapping. You can also add 20% to the length of the carpeted area as an estimate. Remember to allow for the direction of the carpet's grain, ensuring that all pieces are laid in the same direction to maintain colour consistency. Use a sturdy utility knife or heavy-duty scissors to cut the carpet, ensuring that your cutting tools are sharp to achieve a clean edge.

Step 3: Prepare the Surface

Before installing the new carpet, the surface of the boat rails must be prepared. Remove any old carpet and clean off any remaining glue residue using a scraper, mineral spirits, and sandpaper for heavy areas. This step ensures that the surface is smooth and free of any debris that could interfere with the adhesion of the new carpet.

Step 4: Choose the Right Glue

Selecting the appropriate glue for your project is essential. There are three types of glue commonly used for boat carpet installation: Indoor/Outdoor Boat Carpet Adhesive, Professional Marine-Grade Carpet Adhesive, and Spray Contact Adhesive. The Indoor/Outdoor Adhesive is suitable for pontoon boats with marine plywood flooring. The Professional Adhesive is a more versatile option, suitable for aluminium fishing boats and fiberglass flooring. The Spray Contact Adhesive is ideal for creating a permanent bond on lids and vertical surfaces.

Step 5: Apply the Glue

Work in sections when applying the glue. Spread the glue with a notched trowel in one section, allowing a few minutes for it to become tacky. Then, roll the carpet onto that section and repeat the process until you have covered the desired area. Apply pressure to force the glue up between the rows of knots on the backside of the carpet using a roller, the back of a shop broom, or a sanded and wrapped 2x6 piece of wood.

Step 6: Check the Bond

After installing the carpet, use a heavy object like a carpet roller to apply pressure to the new carpet. Slide the object firmly from the centre of the project to the edge. Wait a minute, then check a corner to ensure the glue has adhered properly to both the boat rail and the carpet. If not, allow a few more minutes for the glue to become tackier and roll again.

Removing the old carpet

Next, take out the old carpet. You can use a scraper, mineral spirits, and sandpaper to clean off any remaining glue residue. Pay special attention to heavy areas of glue, making sure to clean and dry all areas that will be carpeted. This step is crucial, as it will ensure a smooth surface for the new carpet to adhere to. It is also a good opportunity to inspect the deck and underlying areas for any water damage or hidden structural issues.

After removing the old carpet, you will need to prepare the surface for the new carpet. Use a medium-grade sandpaper, or a belt sander if necessary, to smooth out any high and low points on the deck caused by the old glue. Be careful not to sand too far into the deck boards. Once the deck is cleared and clean, you are ready to move on to the next step of installing the new carpet.

It is important to note that removing the old carpet is just the first step in the process of installing new marine carpet on your boat. Make sure to follow the subsequent steps, such as measuring and cutting the new carpet, applying adhesive, and securing the new carpet in place.

Cutting the carpet

Before you begin cutting the carpet, it is important to prepare it for fitting. Start by laying the new carpet out in the sun for at least 15-20 minutes, or a few hours if possible. This will help to make the carpet more pliable and easier to work with. It is also recommended to have the carpet facing the same direction for each cut piece, as there is a definite grain, and turning a piece sideways can alter the colour.

When you are ready to start cutting, begin by taking rough measurements of the area you need to cover. It is always better to have too much carpet than too little, so be sure to allow for extra when measuring. For example, when measuring the length of each piece for a bass boat carpet, you can add 20% for an estimate.

Next, use a utility knife or carpet knife to cut the carpet to the approximate size. You can then lay the carpet in place on the boat, using weights or clamps to prevent it from shifting. Custom cut the carpet for an exact fit, ensuring that the grain is going in the right direction. You may also need to cut the carpet to fit around specific features, such as rails or speaker boxes. Always use sharp cutting tools and be precise in your measurements to ensure a clean edge on your new marine carpet.

Once you are happy with the fit, you can clamp or weigh down the carpet to one side only. Then, fold the carpet in half lengthwise, revealing the right side of the floor. This will allow you to apply the adhesive and attach the carpet securely.

After applying the adhesive and attaching the carpet, you can trim off any excess carpet that might be left. Be sure to cut carefully along the edges to ensure a smooth, level finish. Any excess carpet could get torn or frayed, potentially damaging the rest of the carpet or the boat itself.

Attaching the carpet

Now that you have your boat, tools, and carpet ready, it's time to attach the new carpet. Here are the steps you can follow:

Firstly, if your old bunks have carpet on them, strip it off. Remove any old staples or screws that were holding the original carpet in place. Give your bunk boards a thorough inspection and consider replacing them if there are signs of rot, cracking, or warping. Check the hardware for any signs of rust and wear, and replace them if necessary. You may also want to give the boards a light sanding to smooth out any rough edges and ensure a perfect connection between the board and the new carpet. If your old carpet was glued down, remove any residue as it can cause friction and wear down the new carpet over time.

Next, measure your trailer bunks. Measure the length and width, and add about 3-4 inches to each measurement to ensure the carpet fits properly. Roll out your new carpet and place the bunk board on it to trace the outline. Cut the carpet using a utility knife, ensuring your tool is sharp to prevent fraying or uneven cutting.

Now, you can place the carpet over the board, making sure all edges are lined up and centred. Remember to keep the seam on the bottom, facing the trailer frame. Start stapling along the sides and bottom, placing a staple every 2-3 inches. Don't staple the surface that will touch your boat, as this may cause scratches. You can use a utility knife to trim off any excess carpet at the top and bottom to prevent bunching. Ensure the seams meet evenly, and if there is overlap, cut off the extra portion.

If you prefer to use glue instead of staples, apply the adhesive directly to the top side of the bunk board. Carefully line up your carpet and press it down, smoothing out any wrinkles. You can use a kitchen rolling pin or a length of pipe to do this evenly. Allow the glue to dry for a couple of hours, or preferably, leave it overnight. Finish by wrapping the carpet around the board and securing the sides and underside with staples or more glue.

Finally, once the carpet is attached and secured, you can replace the bunk. Feel along the length of the bunk to ensure a smooth and even finish. Remember to maintain your new carpet and bunks with routine cleaning to ensure their longevity.

Frequently asked questions