When it comes to your boat, if you’re like most mariners, the flooring is probably one of the last things that comes to mind; however, if you really stop to think about it, the floor of your boat is kind of important. Not only does it have a big impact on the aesthetic appeal of the vessel, but more importantly, it can impact your safety.
Bare boat floors are kind of bland and boring, to say the least, and because the surface gets wet pretty easily, if there isn’t enough traction underfoot, you or one of your mates could easily slip and fall, and sustain pretty significant injuries. Plus, standing on top of a hard surface for extended periods of time is pretty uncomfortable and can lead to achy bones, joints, and muscles. A carpet is the perfect solution to address all of these issues!
With the right boat carpeting, you’ll improve the safety of your vessel, as a carpet provides traction underfoot. Because carpeting provides a layer of cushioning, you’ll have a more comfortable boating experience, too. Plus, carpeting will add color and interest to one of the largest surfaces on your boat, so it will be much more visually pleasing.
Needless to say, boat carpeting is a wise investment. There’s just one problem: there are so many different options available! While choice is certainly a good thing, having too many options can make the process of trying to select the right carpeting for your boat seem a bit daunting. To help alleviate some of the frustration, to make the process a bit easier, and to assist you with selecting the best carpeting for your boat, we’ve taken the liberty of doing the legwork for you.
We’ve also included a detailed buyer’s guide that highlights the key factors that you should take into consideration when you’re shopping for carpeting for your boat. We wrap things up by providing answers to some of the most frequently asked questions that skippers have about boat carpeting. With the information protected in this guide, you should be able to select the perfect carpeting to improve the safety, visual appeal, and comfort of your vessel.
Contents
Our Top Picks
- The Best Overall Boat Carpet – Happybuy Deep Blue Marine Carpet with Waterproof Back
- The Best Premium Boat Carpet- Bascar Pontoon Boat Carpet
- The Best Budget Boat Carpet- Cuda Boat Trailer Bunk Carpet
Boat Carpet Reviews
The Best Overall Boat Carpet – Happybuy Deep Blue Marine Carpet
We selected the Happybuy Deep Blue Marine Carpet as our pick for the best overall boat carpet for several reasons; it’s very well-constructed, it’s made of durable materials, it has a great ribbed texture, it’s available in an assortment of sizes and colors, and it’s easy to install, for example.
The carpet has a 4.5 mm low pile height, which is idea for a boat, as it provides just the right amount of cushioning, and the ribbed texture offers the ideal amount of traction to reduce the risk of slips and falls. The backing layer is made of waterproof TPR and avoids moisture penetration, so it will protect the underlying floor from damage.
- Premium Marine Carpet: Color: Deep Blue; Size: 6 x 13 ft (1.8 x 4 m); Carpet Thickness: 0.18 in (4.6 mm); Covering Area: 78 sq.ft (7.2 m²). Upgraded polyester fiber ensures our advanced marine carpet remains durable for years to come. Note: Different visual angles and lights would make the color looks various on the carpet.
- Non-slide Surface: Ribbed texture on the surface will add friction. With 0.17 in (4.5 mm) low pile height, this boat carpet not only avoids sliding but also keeps a soft feeling even when you walk on your bare feet.
- Water-proof Back: The backing of the outdoor carpet roll adopts soft rubber material, efficiently prevents water penetration, and doesn't scratch the floor. Thus, you no longer need to worry about corrosion after long-term use.
- Effortless Cleaning & Installation: Stubborn stains can be quickly cleaned with a vacuum machine. Thanks to its only 0.18 in(4.6 mm) thickness, you can easily cut the bass boat carpet into any shape to fit any space with scissors or utility knives, and then use glue to finish the installation.
- Indoor & Outdoor Use: Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, patios, porches, decks, boats, sun-rooms, basements, garages, etc. Our soft boat carpeting becomes a necessity for your daily decorations.
The carpeting is constructed of polyester fiber, which is highly durable, waterproof, and can easily withstand constant exposure to the elements and wear-and-tear. Maintenance is effortless; just use a broom, a leaf blower, or a vacuum to get rid of any dirt and debris, and the carpet won’t pull or pill.
This boat carpet is available in a wide variety of sizes, ranging from 6 feet by 13.1 feet up to 6 feet by 52.5 feet. You can easily cut it to size and install it yourself, too! While we’re featuring the deep blue color, there are several other hues to choose from to suit your taste, including black, brown, charcoal, deep brown, and gray. With so many benefits, it’s easy to see why the Happybuy Marine Carpet as our pick for the best overall boat carpet.
What We Liked
- Durable polyester fiber carpet and TPR backing
- Waterproof
- 5 mm low profile pile offers the perfect traction
- Easy to maintain
- Easy to install
- Available in a wide range of sizes and colors
- Can be cut to size
The Best Premium Boat Carpet – Bascar Pontoon Boat Carpet
If you’re looking for premium carpeting for your boat, this option from Bascar is an excellent choice – and our pick for the best premium boat carpeting. Made of premium-grade, 32 ounce marine-grade polypropylene material, this carpeting is thoughtfully designed, durably constructed, and provides exceptional comfort and traction. With glue down installation, you won’t have to worry about the carpeting rolling up, peeling back, or shifting.
It comes complete with everything you need to install it, including an easy to follow installation manual, a carpet knife, extra blades, and even free tech advice directly from the manufacturer! There are a variety of different sizes to choose from, including 8.5 feet by 10 feet, 8.5 feet by 15 feet, 8.5 feet by 20 feet, 8.5 feet by 25 feet, and 8.5 feet by 30 feet, so you can purchase the appropriate size for your vessel.
- This carpet is superior quality 32 ounce marine grade carpeting.
- This purchase includes: Carpet, Installation Manual and free tech advice.
- This carpet is designed for a glue-down application.
- PLEASE REQUEST SAMPLES VIA 'ASK A QUESTION' (INCLUDE NAME, MAILING ADDRESS, COLOR OPTION) FOR COLOR/QUALITY MATCH*** NO RETURNS ON COLOR DISCREPANCIES.
There are also several colors to choose from, including neutrals, like granite and sand, and bolder hues, such as burgundy and jasmine blue. Whichever color size and color you choose, with the Bascar Pontoon Boat Carpet, you’ll improve the visual appeal of your boat, and you’ll make it a safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable experience.
Oh, and just because it’s advertised for pontoon boats, that doesn’t mean that it can’t be used for other types of vessels!
What We Liked
- Made of marine-grade polypropylene for exceptional durability
- Glue-down application to ensure long-lasting placement
- Comes with everything needed for installation, including a how-to manual, a carpet knife, extra blades, and free tech advice
- Available in an assortment of sizes
- Available in a variety of colors
The Best Budget Boat Carpet – Cuda Boat Trailer Bunk Carpet
If you’re looking for durable carpeting for your boat that offers just the right amount of traction and cushioning and is easy to install but won’t break the bank, then consider the our pick for the best budget boat carpeting: Cuda Boat Trailer Bunk Carpet.
It’s nothing flashy, but it will most certainly do the job! This carpeting has a thicker pile height and a strong backing to ensure lasting durability. It’s UV-resistant, moisture-resistant, tear-resistant, and weather-resistant, so it will look great for years to come; you can literally install it and forget it!
- WOUNDED WARRIOR, AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY - Sales of bunk carpet for boat trailers benefits Wounded Warrior and American Cancer Society. Buying Cuda Powersports marine carpet for your boat/jet ski trailer will support troops & loved ones with cancer
- PREMIUM BLACK - 12in Wide x 13Ft Long Our Most Popular Roll 30oz Carpet for Bunk Boards – wraps numerous bunk boards with a single roll. Recommended for wrapping 2x6's, leaving a 2in gap, bunk carpet for boat trailers
- THICK AND DURABLE – Specialty Marine Carpet with thicker pile height and strong backing. Protect the underside of your boat, jet ski trailer, boat trailer bunk with the heaviest most durable black outdoor carpet for marine and outdoor application
- ‘CUDA’s PROPRIETARY BACKING - Carpet is NOT Rubber Backed. Studies Found Rubber Backed Carpet to Fail & Separate on Bunk Boards. Specially Designed for Marine Use on Bunk Boards using Adhesive or Only Staples
- MADE OF RECYCLED OCEAN PLASTIC – This Bunk Carpet is Made of Recycled PET Polyester (rPET). Plastic Bottles and old fishing nets are recycled into raw PET fibers. By purchasing our product you’re helping to clean up our oceans
The patent-pending backing can easily accept any brand and type of adhesive or glue. This boat carpeting is easy to maintain, too; just grab a broom, a vacuum, or a leaf blower, and you’ll be able to eliminate any dirt and debris buildup and keep your boat looking great.
The carpeting measures 13 feet long by 12 inches wide, and it can be easily cut to achieve the idea size. Of course, as our pick for the best budget boat carpeting, the Cuda Boat Trailer Bunk Carpet is affordably priced.
What We Liked
- Made of durable materials
- Features patent-pending backing
- Works with all types of adhesives and glues
- Weather-, UV, moisture-, and tear-resistant for long-lasting durability
- Thicker pile provides more traction and padding underfoot
- Easy to maintain
- Easy to install
- Measures 13 feet long by 12 inches wide
- Can be cut to size with ease
- Affordably priced
Marine Carpeting Do-It-Yourself Boat Carpet
If you’re want to install a higher end carpet on your boat and you’d like a large array of color options, then the Do-It-Yourself Boat Carpet from Marine Carpeting is an excellent choice to consider. Made of marine-grade polypropylene, it’s exceptionally durable and can easily withstand water, fading, stains, and regular wear-and-tear.
The glue-down installation ensures that the carpeting will stay in place for years to come, and you can use all types and brands of adhesives. This carpet comes with everything you need to install it on your boat, including an easy to read installation manual, a durable carpet knife, extra blades, and free tech advice from the manufacturer.
- Theounce cut pile, glue down carpet includedthis kitsuperior quality carpet.
- The highstabilized polypropylene constructiondurable and stain resistant.
- REQUEST SAMPLES FOR COLOR MATCH*wenot accept returns for color discrepancies.
- Includes: carpet, installation manual, carpet knife, extra blades and free tech advice.
It’s available in a wide range of sizes, with 8 feet by 10 feet the smallest option and 8 feet by 30 feet the largest, and because it can be cut with ease, you can achieve the perfect size for the decking of your boat. In addition to the durability and easy installation, one of the most appealing draws of the Marine Carpeting Do-It-Yourself Boat Carpet is the large selection of color choices; options include medium gray, black, graphite, cocoa, hunter green, medium gray, navy, sand, sandstone, silver blue, teal, and red.
To ensure that you select the appropriate color, you can contact the manufacturer to request a sample before you make a purchase, which is highly recommended, as returns will not be issued for color discrepancies.
What We Liked
- Made of marine-grade polypropylene material
- Exceptionally durable backing
- Weather, stain, fade, and moisture resistant
- Available in 6 different sizes
- 12 different color options, including neutrals and more bold hues
- Easy to install; comes with everything you need to install it
- Can be cut to size
- Accepts all types and brands of adhesives and glues
Happy Yacht KT GuoMei EVA Boat Decking Sheet Marine Teak Flooring Carpet
If you’re looking for a floor covering for your boat but you want something a little different than the standard carpeting, then this option from Happy Yacht KT is a great choice. Their GuoMei EVA Boat Decking Sheet Marine Teak Flooring Carpet is constructed of EVA foam material, which offers numerous benefits; it’s exceptionally durable, is fade-, moisture-, stain-, and shock-resistant, it offers excellent cushioning and traction, it’s shock-absorbent, it can withstand chemical corrosion, and it offers heat insulation, too.
It’s odorless, non-toxic, and non-absorbent, to boot! With high tensile elongation, it’s virtually impossible to deform. This flooring will lend a unique look to your boat decking, as it resembles teak, but without the cumbersome installation, exorbitant costs, and complicated maintenance. Self-adhesive backing makes for super-easy installation, and it will stay put for years to come.
- Product advantages:Self-adhesive on the back, easy to install
- performance:Slow rebound， Not easy deformation, Shock absorption, Heat resistant, Salt water proof , Stain resistant & very easy to maintain.
- Features: Can make your boat more high-end and beautiful
- suitable for： yacht , swimming pool，Recreational vehicles, boat deck , speedboats, surfboards, boat floors, etc.
- effect:Provides a non-slippery surface for your boat in both wet & dry conditions.
The carpeting measures 94.5 inches by 35.4 inches, and it can be cut to size, so you can easily achieve the perfect fit for your boat. Of all the carpets featured on our list, the Happy Yacht KT carpeting offers the most color options – an impressive 27 different hues and color combinations to choose from, including neutrals, like dark gray and blue strips and light gray with white stripes, to bold, such as purple with black stripes or green with black stripes. All of these benefits, and this boat carpeting is affordably priced, too!
What We Liked
- Made of EVA foaming material
- Exceptionally durable
- Skid-proof, shock-absorbent, and provides great heat insulation, too
- Self-adhesive backing allows for super-easy installation
- Available in 27 unique color combinations
- Offers a one-of-a-kind design
- Can be cut to size
- Affordably priced
HUANGQIU 94.5” x 35.43” Latest EVA Foam Imitation Teak Decorative Boat Floor
If you like the idea of EVA foam flooring for your boat but you’d like a more simplistic design than the previously mentioned option, than KT GuoMei’s EVA Foam Imitation Teak Decorative Boat Flooring is a great choice to consider.
Just like the other EVA foam carpeting on our list, this option is also exceptionally durable; it resists moisture, stains, fading, tearing, and it’s slip-proof, and tear-proof, too. It’s super easy to maintain; just sweep it down or spray it with a house and it will look as good as new.
Installing this carpeting is a cinch, as it features high-grade self-adhesive on the back; simply peel off the protective layer, press it in place, and voila! – Your carpeting is installed and will stay in place for years to come. Because it’s EVA foam, it’s heat resistant, as well, which can certainly be beneficial.
Measuring 94.5 inches by 35.43 inches, this carpeting will fit most boat decks, but it can easily be cut to size, if needed. The KT GuoMei EVA foam boat carpeting is also available in an assortment of colors, all of which include colored stripes running through a solid hue.
Examples of some of the different color combos include blue with black strips, black with red stripes, dark brown with black stripes, light gray with black stripes, and dark blue with blue stripes. Lastly, this carpeting is very affordably priced, which certainly adds to its appeal.
What We Liked
- Made of durable, heavy-duty, marine-grade EVA foam
- Stain, heat, moisture, tear, and slip resistant
- Strong self-adhesive backing for easy installation
- Measures 94.5 inches by 35.4 inches and can be cut to size with ease
- Available in 15 different color combinations
- Affordably priced
RecPro Extreme Duty Indoor/Outdoor RV Marine Floor
If you’re looking for a primo, top-of-the-line carpeting for your vessel, and you have a sizable budget, then the RecPro Extreme Duty Indoor/Outdoor RV Marine Floor may be just the right option for you. This carpeting is some of the best on the market today!
The 50 mil vinyl flooring mimics the textured appeal of carpeting, but requires a lot less maintenance, is much more durable, and is very easy to clean. Made of thermoplastic polyolefin, or TPO, an advanced type of single-ply vinyl material, this marine flooring is 100 percent UV stabilized and won’t fade.
Of course, it’s also moisture resistant, so it can withstand constant exposure to water and humidity with ease. The polypropylene backing is easy to glue down and any type of adhesive can be used. The tightly sealed application prevents moisture from penetrating through the carpeting and damaging the underlying floor, so you can rest easy knowing that you’ll be protecting your boat from water damage.
Of course, it provides great traction, so there’s no need to worry about slipping and sliding, and it offers a nice layer of padding underfoot for improved comfort. It’s available in an assortment of sizes, too, including 5 feet, 10 feet, 15 feet, 20 feet, 25 feet, and 30 feet.
What We Liked
- Made of advanced thermoplastic polyolefin, a new type of single-ply vinyl material that’s ideal for marine applications
- 100 percent UV stabilized and will not fade
- Moisture resistant and prevents water penetration
- Durable polypropylene backing can be easily glued down with any type of adhesive
- Available in two neutral color options: tan and gray
- Easy to install
- 6 size options
- Long-lasting durability
House, Home, and More Indoor Carpet with Rubber Marine Backing
If you’re looking to make a bold statement with your boat, consider installing this House, Home, and More Indoor Carpet. It’s bright red color is sure to catch the eye of passersby and will certainly set the mood for fun and adventure on your vessel.
This UV-protected outdoor carpet is constructed of the highest quality polyester fiber that’s resistant to stains, fading, and moisture, and is super easy to clean. The back is lined with marine rubber, which resists moisture penetration and will prevent your boat’s bare flooring from being damaged by water.
The carpet edges are unbound, yet they will not fray, so it will look great for years to come. The low pile height, which measures about ¼ inch, and ribbed texture offers excellent traction and will help to prevent slips and falls, adding a reliable layer of protection to your vessel, and providing you and your passengers with peace of mind.
The carpet is available in an assortment of sizes, starting at 6 feet by 10 feet and the largest size measuring 6 feet by 50 feet, with a total of six additional sizes – all measuring 6 feet wide – in-between. You can install the carpet as-is, or if you’d like or you need, you can trim to size using a simple pair of scissors or a utility knife. With the House, Home, and More Indoor Carpet with Rubber Marine Backing in a brilliant red color, you’ll not only add visual interest to your boat, but you’ll add much-need safety and security, too.
What We Liked
- Made of high-grade polyester material
- Low pile height of about ¼ inch with ribbed texture provides comfort underfoot and great traction
- UV-protected and fade, weather, moisture, and stain resistant
- Backed with marine rubber for additional protection and security
- The carpet is available in an assortment of sizes and can be installed as-is or cut to size
- The bright red color is sure to make a statement
HZCHIONE EVA Foam Boat Flooring
Another boat floor covering made of EVA foam, this option from HZCHIONE is a great choice if you want reliable traction, a soft surface to walk and stand on, and if you’d like to protect your boat floors while also adding a calming look to the space.
This sea deck boat flooring features deep striped grooves that provide additional friction to prevent slipping and sliding, making your boat a safer space to use. Water runs off of the striped grows and will not pool. Like other EVA foam boat carpeting, this one is cold tolerant and provides heat insulation. It protects the surface of your boat’s floors from scratching and can prevent lasting stains, too.
The strong self-adhesive backing allows for super-easy installation; just set it in place, remove the protective layer, apply pressure, and you’re done! If necessary, you can cut the carpet to size prior to applying to the floor. Because it’s made of high-quality EVA foam, this flooring is stain, UV, shock, and moisture resistant, and it will be sure to look great for years to come.
It requires little maintenance and is very easy to clean. The ocean blue camo color lends a calming look that will look great when paired with the color of the open water; however, if that color combination doesn’t suit your fancy, there are three other options to choose from: dessert camo, jungle camo, and yellow camo. The carpet measures 94.48 inches long by 23.62 inches wide, and it’s 6 mm thick.
What We Liked
- Made of high-grade 6 mm thick EVA foam
- UV, heat, stain, moisture, and fade resistant
- Deep striped grooves provide added friction and prevent sliding
- Water runs off the carpeting via the striped grooves and won’t pool
- Easy to shape and fit
- Can be cut to size
- Strong self-adhesive allows for increased longevity
- Easy to maintain and clean
- Four visually pleasing camo colors to choose from
- Affordably priced
Cuda Powersports Boat Carpet
Wrapping up our list of the best boat carpeting is another option from Cuda Powersports, one of the most trusted marine carpeting manufacturers. They partnered with the leading American manufacturer that has more than 60 years of experience making Tier 1 marine carpeting to create this replacement boat carpeting. Of course, just because it says “replacement”, that doesn’t mean that you can’t use it as a first-time installation carpet.
The carpeting was specially designed to offer long-lasting durability in the harshest of conditions, including on boat deking. Made of 100 percent marine polyester and featuring the highest quality, specially engineered rubber backing, this carpeting isn’t just durable, but it’s also comfortable underfoot.
The glue down applications ensures it will stay in place in the harshest of conditions and for years to come. Any type of adhesive or glue can be used to install it, and using the included DIY guide, you should be able to install it with ease. This carpeting comes in a brilliant royal blue color and it’s available in several different sizes, including 6 feet by 10 feet, 6 feet by 15 feet, 6 feet by 20 feet, 6 feet by 25 feet, and 6 feet by 30 feet.
What We Liked
- Made by one of the most trusted manufacturers in the marine carpeting industry
- Constructed of 100 percent marine polyester
- Specially engineered with the highest quality rubber backing
- Long-lasting durability
- Easy to install
- Works with all types of adhesives
- Brilliant blue color creates an eye-catching look
- Available in 6 different sizes
Other Best Selling Options
- Premium Marine Carpet: Color: Gray; Size: 6 x 18 ft (1.8 x 5.5 m); Carpet Thickness: 0.18 in (4.6 mm); Covering Area: 108 sq.ft (10 m²). Upgraded polyester fiber ensures our advanced marine carpet remains durable for years to come. Note: Our gray carpet contains a little blue fiber. Therefore, it looks blue under the bright; it looks gray when the light is not particularly good.
- Non-slide Surface: Ribbed texture on the surface will add friction. With 0.17 in (4.5 mm) low pile height, this boat carpet not only avoids sliding but also keeps a soft feeling even when you walk on your bare feet.
- Water-proof Back: The backing of the outdoor carpet roll adopts soft rubber material, efficiently prevents water penetration, and doesn't scratch the floor. Thus, you no longer need to worry about corrosion after long-term use.
- Effortless Cleaning & Installation: Stubborn stains can be quickly cleaned with a vacuum machine. Thanks to its only 0.18 in(4.6 mm) thickness, you can easily cut the bass boat carpet into any shape to fit any space with scissors or utility knives, and then use glue to finish the installation.
- Indoor & Outdoor Use: Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, patios, porches, decks, boats, sun-rooms, basements, garages, etc. Our soft boat carpeting becomes a necessity for your daily decorations.
- Theounce cut pile, glue down carpet includedthis kitsuperior quality carpet.
- The highstabilized polypropylene constructiondurable and stain resistant.
- REQUEST SAMPLES FOR COLOR MATCH*wenot accept returns for color discrepancies.
- Includes: carpet, installation manual, carpet knife, extra blades and free tech advice.
- [Protect Your Vehicles]: Preserve the underside of your fishing boat or jet ski with the BISupply Boat Bunk Carpet; Cut and reshape the marine bunker carpet to fit your trailer ramp ensuring your aquatic vehicle easily slides onto the surface
- [Cover Inside and Out]: Install trailer bunk carpet to your deck stairs for extra traction with each step; Fishing boat bunk carpet roll provides a comfortable surface inside your boat for your passengers to enjoy; Boat docks can be lined with boat trailer carpet for a sleek design
- [Withstand the Elements]: Fast drying polyester allows the bunk board carpet to withstand choppy water, rainy weather, or soaked equipment; Soft marine grade carpet does not retain water making your surfaces safe to walk on
- [How to install]: Align black trailer bunk carpet on the board and smooth out creases; Wrap the carpet around the wood allowing a few inches of overhang to each end; Staple or glue carpet to wood (staple and glue not included)
- [Package Details]: Fully unrolled, the boat rail carpet measures 13ft (4m) long by 12in (30cm) wide; Excess trailer boat carpet can be used as garage carpet, installed to boat accessories, or fitted on patio furniture; Package includes 1 black roll
Carpeting for Boats: A Buyer’s Guide
So now that you have taken the time to read through our list of the best carpeting for boats, you can clearly see that there are several excellent options to choose from; however, with so many different choices, trying to narrow down the options even further to the right one that will best suit your needs can still seem daunting. So how do you go about deciding which one to choose? By taking some key factors into consideration before you start shopping.
To further assist you with selecting the very best carpet for your vessel, we have outlined the most important factors that you are going to want to consider before you make your final selection.
The Size of the Carpet
The first thing that you are going to want to consider when you’re shopping for a marine carpet is the size, as there are several different sizes available, and you want to be sure that it fits. If it’s a little too large, you can always make some adjustments by snipping off excess material; however, if it’s too small, you can’t add extra material.
To determine what size you should order, you will need to measure the size of the flooring that you want to cover. Using a tape measure and perhaps some assistance from a trusted friend or family member, measure the length and width of your boat’s deck, cabin, and any other flooring that you would like to cover. Jot down the measurements and refer to them when you’re placing your order. Most marine carpets are 5 feet, 6 feet, or 8 feet long, while the width will vary.
The Weight of the Carpet
Next, you are going to want to consider the weight of the marine carpeting. This is an important factor to consider, as it indicates how much fiber the carpeting contains, which will impact its durability and feel. The heavier the carpeting, the more fiber it contains, and the lighter the weight, the less fibers will be present.
The Type of Carpeting
There are a few different types of boat carpeting, and you’ll want to determine what type you would like before you install. Some of the different types of marine carpeting include the following:
- Loop pile carpeting. These marine carpets are regarded for their outstanding durability and are excellent if you are expecting a lot of heavy foot traffic. That’s because the fibers are designed in a loop formation, creating a tightly woven surface, so they can easily withstand wear-and-tear. There is one downside to loop pile carpeting, and that’s there is a chance that the pile could be torn if a sharp object, such as a fish hook or a utility knife, gets stuck in it.
- Cut pile carpeting. Cut pile carpeting is the most common type of carpeting used on boats. The fibers are longer and looser, which makes them an excellent choice for comfort, as they feel softer and provide more padding underfoot. The looped fibers are cut in half, which leaves only the ends connecting to the backing of the carpeting.
Both loop pile and cut pile boat carpets can be either be self-adhesive or glue-down installation. If you choose a glue-down carpeting, you’ll need to purchase marine adhesive. Water-based glue adhesives are the best option, though alcohol-based adhesives would work, too. Keep on reading to see more information about the different kinds of adhesives for boat carpeting.
The Material
You are also going to want to consider the material that the carpeting is made of. This includes the material that the top side is made of, as well as the backing. There are several different types of materials that can be used, though the best options are marine-grade, water, fade, mold, moisture, fade, tear, and slip resistant. The backing should be marine-grade, too, and should stop moisture from penetrating through the carpeting and making its way to the flooring of your boat.
Adhesive
Something else that is important to consider is the adhesive. Some boat carpets are equipped with self-adhesive, while others have a glue-down design. The best adhesives are water-based glues, as they will create a stronger seal and will be able to withstand more wear and tear and last a lot longer. Alcohol-based adhesives are decent, too; however, there is a higher risk that they will lose their “stick” after a while.
The Color and Style of the Carpeting
Just like the carpeting that you would install in your home, boat carpeting is available in a wide variety of colors and styles. Though this factor won’t have a direct impact on the function of the carpeting, it will affect the overall look and feel of your boat. Consider what type of look you want to create and your unique taste. Some of the different color and style options include solid and patterns, as well as neutral and bold hues.
The Traction
Traction is another very important factor to consider, as it has a direct impact on the slip resistance capabilities. Obviously, boats can get pretty slipper, and one of the main advantages of installing a marine carpet is that it provides traction, creating a slip-resistant surface. The type of material that is used on the back of the carpeting will impact the traction and slip-resistance. Marine-grade vinyl and rubber are the best options; the thicker, the better.
Additional Features
Because purchasing carpeting for your boat does require a reasonable investment, it would be in your best interest to find an option that offers useful additions. For instance, if you need to install the carpeting yourself, if it comes with the necessary tools, such as knifes and additional blades, that would certainly be useful, as it will save you from having to spend additional money.
Boat Carpet FAQs
While we hope that we have provided sufficient information about marine carpeting, we realize that you may still have some questions – especially if this is the first time you’re purchasing carpeting for your boat. Since our goal is to assist you with choosing the best option for your unique needs, in this section of our guide, we feature some of the most frequently asked questions that sailors have about boat decking, and the answers to those questions.
Q: Can you use an outdoor carpet rather than a marine carpet?
A: Yes, you could use an outdoor carpet in place of a marine carpet. While this option may be sufficient, particularly if you are on a budget or if you need bulk amounts of floor covering, do keep in mind that outdoor carpeting may not be as resistant to moisture, stains, fading, and other issues that can commonly occur with boat flooring. Marine carpeting is specifically designed to combat those issues, so to ensure high-quality, long-lasting floor covering for your boat, marine carpeting is the best bet.
Q: Where can I purchase carpeting for my boat?
A: You can purchase boat carpeting pretty much anywhere that sells boating equipment and supplies. You may also be able to find it at your local hardware or outdoor store. Of course, online retailers are one of the best options; especially Amazon. All of the carpeting featured on our list can be found at Amazon.
Q: How do you cut boat carpeting properly?
A: While it might sound complicated, trimming marine carpeting is actually pretty easy; all you need is sharp utility knife or a pair of scissors, a marker or pen, and a measuring tape. Start by measuring the floor of your boat to determine what size you need to cut the carpet, and then transfer the measurements to back of the carpet, using your marker or pen to mark out the measurements. Using your utility knife or scissors, slowly cut the marked out area.
Q: How do you install boat carpeting?
A: Installing boat carpeting is pretty easy, too. The following steps explain how to install it:
- Thoroughly clean and dry the floor
- If you’re carpet is glue installation, apply the adhesive to the floor and once in place, carefully lay the carpeting over the surface of the floor, and press in place
- If you’re carpet features self-adhesive, slowly remove the protective backing in small sections and apply to the floor, pressing down as you go. Continue the process until the entire carpet is in place
Final Thoughts
With the best boat carpeting, you can maximize the enjoyment of your boat. The right carpeting will provide reliable traction that will increase your safety, will offer soft footing to step and stand on, will protect your boat and increase its life expectancy, and will improve its visual appeal.
