Salon Makeover: Wood-Look Vinyl For Boats

If you're looking to give your boat's flooring a new look, marine vinyl flooring is a great option. It's durable, low-maintenance, and resistant to damage and wear and tear. Before you begin, you'll need to measure the area, cut the plywood accordingly, and prep the surface by filling any holes and sanding it down. You'll also need to decide on the right adhesive for your surface type—wood, aluminum, or fiberglass. When you're ready to apply the vinyl, use a paint roller to spread the adhesive, wait for it to become tacky, and then carefully roll out the vinyl, smoothing out any air bubbles as you go. Finally, use a staple gun to secure the edges and let it dry overnight before walking on it or installing seating and equipment.

Prepare the surface

Before you start, make sure you have all the right tools and materials. You'll need a tape measure, plywood, a marker, spackling paste, sandpaper, a broom, fabric, a trowel, adhesive, a cardboard tube, a plastic cutting board, a razor blade, a staple gun, and stainless steel staples.

First, use the tape measure to gauge the area where you'll be installing the vinyl fabric. Then, apply these measurements to a piece of plywood and use the marker to mark the dimensions for saw cuts.

Next, fill any holes in the plywood deck of your boat with spackling paste. Smooth it over with sandpaper and dust off the excess with a broom to ensure a completely clean surface.

Roll out your fabric over the plywood and cut it, leaving a few extra inches hanging off the bow and stern areas. Lay the fabric flat for at least 30 minutes before exposing it to glue.

Now it's time to prepare the surface of your boat. Ideally, remove any objects attached to the boat floor, as well as any plastic or metal trim pieces. Removing all seating, tables, motors, and electronic devices will allow for an easier and better application of the vinyl. Make sure to also remove any existing carpet or vinyl and any adhesive residue left on the surface.

If you have a wooden boat deck, it's likely that you'll need to completely remove the existing wood surface and replace it with new wood. Use 3/4" pressure-treated plywood screwed to the structure. Make sure the plywood sheets are butted tightly together, leaving no more than a 1/32" space between them.

Before applying the vinyl, inspect the surface of the boat to ensure it's completely clean and free of debris, sawdust, screws, or any other foreign objects. Use a leaf blower or broom to ensure the surface is spotless.

Additional Tips:

• Be extremely careful when unwrapping the vinyl roll. Sharp objects can damage the material.
• After removing the packaging, unroll the vinyl over the surface and determine that the roll is of sufficient length to cover the required area.
• Center the vinyl and adjust for appropriate overhang on all sides. Pull out any wrinkles or folds.
• Place a couple of weighted objects (e.g., a toolbox, adhesive pail, or brick) on the vinyl within 24" of the boat's edge. Starting at the opposite end, roll the vinyl back loosely to the weighted objects, maintaining a straight and consistent roll.

Choose the right adhesive

Choosing the right adhesive is crucial for successfully installing vinyl flooring in your boat's salon. The type of adhesive you select will depend on the surface you're working with, be it wood, aluminium, or fibreglass. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations to help you choose the right adhesive for your project:

Wood Surfaces:

If you're applying vinyl flooring to a wood surface, such as plywood, you'll need a suitable adhesive that is specifically designed for this purpose. One recommended product is the MariDeck Marine Vinyl Flooring system, which uses MD–101 adhesive for wood applications. This water-based adhesive is designed to work with the MariDeck vinyl flooring product, ensuring the best bond and warranty protection.

Before applying the adhesive, make sure the wood surface is clean, smooth, and free of any debris, sawdust, or foreign objects. You'll also want to ensure that the plywood is securely installed, using moisture-resistant screws, and that the sheets are butted tightly together, leaving no more than a 1/32" space between them.

When you're ready to apply the adhesive, shake the container for about 60 seconds, and then pour it onto the wood deck in a serpentine pattern, creating ribbons of adhesive approximately 1.5" wide. Use a medium-nap paint roller to blend and spread the adhesive evenly, ensuring complete coverage of the wood surface. The coverage rate for MD-101 is approximately 125 square feet per gallon.

It's important to note that if your wood surface has been sealed with a water-proofing sealant, you must use MD-102 (solvent-based) adhesive instead of MD-101. The water-based adhesive requires a porous surface to adhere properly.

Aluminium or Fibreglass Surfaces:

When applying vinyl flooring to aluminium or fibreglass surfaces, you'll need to use a different type of adhesive. The MariDeck Marine Vinyl Flooring system recommends using MD–102 solvent adhesive for these applications. This adhesive is designed to work with both aluminium and fibreglass surfaces.

Before applying the adhesive, ensure that the surface is clean and free of any debris, dust, or foreign objects. For fibreglass surfaces, it is recommended to etch the surface using a coarse grade of sandpaper to improve adhesion. Remove all dust before proceeding.

When applying MD-102, use a small or medium-nap paint roller to apply a thin coat of the adhesive to both the non-woven polyester backside of the vinyl and the surface to receive the vinyl. Be very careful not to get adhesive on the topside of the vinyl, as it is extremely difficult to remove. Allow the adhesive to set for 10-15 minutes until it feels slightly tacky before applying the vinyl.

The coverage rate for MD-102 is approximately 50-60 square feet per gallon. It's important to note that MD-102 is highly flammable, so take the necessary precautions and ensure good ventilation during installation.

General Tips:

• Always follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when working with adhesives.
• Some people recommend using outdoor carpet adhesive for boat vinyl flooring. However, it's important to use a product specifically designed for marine applications, as standard adhesives may not be compatible and could damage the flooring.
• If you're working alone, it's best to install no more than 15 linear feet of vinyl at a time, as the adhesive will dry relatively quickly.
• For aluminium or fibreglass surfaces, you may need to pre-cut the vinyl into the appropriate shapes and sizes required for the specific area of the boat.
• To avoid bubbles and wrinkles, use a push broom or a rolling pin to smooth out the vinyl after application.
• If you're working with plywood, consider sealing the cut edges with a coat of oil-based paint or spar varnish to protect them.
• If your vinyl flooring has a felt backing, make sure to use an adhesive specifically designed for this type of flooring.

By choosing the right adhesive for your specific surface and carefully following the instructions, you'll be well on your way to successfully installing wood-like vinyl flooring in your boat's salon.

Measure and cut the vinyl

To measure and cut the vinyl for your boat salon, you'll first need to measure the area where you'll be installing the marine vinyl fabric. Use a tape measure to gauge the length and width of the boat salon, as well as any depth measurements if you're reupholstering. This will give you a sense of how much vinyl to buy and cut. It's recommended to buy slightly more than you need to account for mistakes and miscalculations.

Once you have your measurements, you can cut a piece of plywood accordingly. Mark the dimensions on the plywood to indicate where you'll be making your cuts. If you're reupholstering, carefully remove the old vinyl, keeping it intact so you can use it as a pattern for your new vinyl. Lay the old vinyl over the new vinyl and outline it with chalk, adding a little extra for wiggle room.

If you're installing vinyl flooring, roll the fabric over the plywood and cut it so that there are a few extra inches hanging off the bow and stern areas. Fabric widths typically vary from 6 feet to 8.5 feet, so choose an option that best fits your boat size.

For vinyl reupholstering, use graph paper or pieces of paper proportionate to the size of the fabric for each cushion to create a visual aid. This will help you determine the optimal way to cut the vinyl from the roll.

Now that you have your measurements and patterns, you're ready to cut the vinyl. If you're cutting vinyl sheets for reupholstering, use sharp scissors or an X-Acto knife, depending on the complexity of the cut. Try to cut just outside the line you've traced, as you can always trim the excess later.

For vinyl flooring, you can use a razor blade to create a smooth edge. If you're working with vinyl sheets, a utility knife can be used to create seams by cutting through the bottom layer of vinyl.

Apply the adhesive

When applying the adhesive, it is important to work in a well-ventilated area, especially when using solvent-based adhesives, which are flammable. You should also ensure that the surface is clean and free of debris, sawdust, screws, or any foreign objects. Use a leaf blower or broom to ensure the surface is completely clean.

For wood surface applications, you will need to use a water-based adhesive, such as MD-101. Do not seal the plywood as the water-based adhesive must be applied to a porous surface for the vinyl to adhere properly. Before applying the adhesive, shake the container for about 60 seconds. The glue should have the appearance and consistency of Elmer's glue or thick white paint. Coverage rates for MD-101 are approximately 125 square feet per gallon.

Pour the adhesive onto the wood deck in a serpentine pattern, creating ribbons of adhesive that are approximately 1.5 inches wide. Use a medium-nap paint roller to blend the adhesive together and completely cover the wood surface. Ensure that the consistency and coverage of the adhesive are even, resembling a heavy coat of paint. Avoid leaving any puddles of adhesive or dry spots on the wood. Finish applying the adhesive in a straight line across the width of the boat.

The adhesive will begin to dry relatively quickly, so it is important to work in small sections at a time. The vinyl needs to be applied when the adhesive is wet. Stand on the vinyl near the weighted objects and slowly begin to unroll it over the freshly applied adhesive, ensuring that it is unrolled straight and wrinkle-free. If a wrinkle appears, lift the vinyl slightly and straighten it out before continuing.

After applying the vinyl, use a clean, stiff-bristle push broom to sweep over the surface, applying medium pressure. This will help distribute the adhesive evenly and ensure consistent contact between the adhesive and the vinyl. Make sure to press out any air pockets.

Repeat the adhesive application and vinyl installation process in sections until the entire surface is covered. Ensure that each new application of adhesive slightly overlaps the previous section to eliminate voids in coverage. It is acceptable to separate the adhered vinyl from the initial adhesive to ensure 100% coverage, but be careful not to let the adhesive dry before making adjustments.

You can walk on the vinyl immediately after installation, but excessive walking and foot traffic may cause small wrinkles. It is recommended to let the glue dry completely overnight before installing seating and equipment.

Roll out the vinyl

Now that you have prepared the surface of your boat, it's time to roll out the vinyl. This process requires careful attention to detail and a steady hand. Here are the steps you need to follow:

• Unroll the vinyl: Carefully unroll the vinyl over the surface you are covering, ensuring that it is centred and adjusted to the ideal position. Take this opportunity to check that the roll is of sufficient length to cover the entire surface.
• Weight the vinyl: Place a few weighted objects, such as a toolbox or a brick, on the vinyl at one end of the boat. These objects should be within 24 inches of the boat's edge.
• Roll back the vinyl: Starting at the opposite end of the boat, slowly roll the vinyl back towards the weighted objects. Maintain a straight and consistent roll as you go.
• Apply adhesive: Prior to opening, shake the glue container for about 60 seconds. For wood surfaces, use an adhesive such as RPVFG, which covers approximately 80 square feet per gallon. Pour the adhesive in a serpentine or spiralling pattern onto the wood deck, ensuring it extends beyond the width of the vinyl roll. Use a medium-nap paint roller to blend the adhesive and completely cover the wood surface. Aim for a heavy coat of paint consistency without leaving any puddles or dry spots.
• Roll out the vinyl: Standing near the weighted objects, carefully begin to unroll the vinyl over the freshly applied adhesive. Ensure that the roll remains straight and wrinkle-free. If a wrinkle appears, lift the vinyl slightly and straighten it out before continuing.
• Smooth out the vinyl: Use a clean, stiff-bristled push broom to sweep over the surface, applying medium pressure. This will help distribute the adhesive evenly and promote consistent contact between the adhesive and the vinyl. Make sure to press out any air pockets that may exist.
• Repeat the process: Go back to the beginning of the roll and remove the weighted objects. Fold the vinyl back to expose the unadhered wood surface. Apply adhesive as described above and follow the same vinyl application procedure.

By following these steps, you will be able to achieve a smooth and consistent vinyl application on your boat's surface. Remember to work in sections to manage the drying time of the adhesive effectively.

Frequently asked questions