Ask boat experts about flooring and they’ll tell you that the main types of flooring (carpet, vinyl, laminate, hardwood, and so on) work for boats as much as they do for residential properties and homes. However, when selecting flooring for a yacht, there are a lot of additional factors that have to be considered. It is not just about esthetics, easy cleaning and upkeep, and comfort.
What to Consider
When you are in charge of selecting the carpet flooring for a yacht, whether you are refurbishing or redecorating, consider the following issues:
- Where – Is it below decks or on the decks?
- Sound – Will it reduce and absorb sound?
- Pile – Is it made to look good and yet withstand heavy traffic, exposure to water and cleansers, and retain its shape?
- Stain Resistance – Can it resist the oil, water and other materials it might encounter above or below deck?
- Material – Unless it is a strong and resistant material like nylon, polyester or acrylic, it may not withstand the humidity, heavy wear and tear and outdoor conditions.
- Warmth – Does it serve to insulate and warm a space?
- Upkeep – How much effort is required to maintain the carpet?
That is a lot to consider, and yet it is fairly easy to streamline the process by working with an expert.
As you can see, there are a lot of decision making factors when selecting carpet for stairs, but these are not the only considerations.
How to Do It?
Consider that your boat may not need new carpet from top to bottom, but it may need more than you realize. How are the treads? What is the deck like? What about the different areas below decks or the wheelhouse? As one expert has written, “Investing in new carpet is a slam dunk. It’s one of the most cost-effective things you can do to spruce up your boat…pay a pro to do it…The result will be a cushy layer that makes you feel like you’re walking on—well, maybe not air, but on something soft”
While you can try it as a DIY project, the confines of the boat and the amount of specialized cutting and trimming can make it a real challenge. Yet, one thing you can do is to ensure the best results by staying off of the carpet until you are sure that any glues have cured and it is ready for use.
Same for All?
One of the biggest questions about carpeting a yacht or boat, however, is if the same carpet has to be used throughout. The answer is a resounding no. The climate controlled areas below decks or within the saloon or cabin spaces can have carpeting identical to a home’s. You’ll always want stain resistance and easy cleaning as well as durable materials. However, you don’t have to use the indoor/outdoor carpeting that is going to be well suited to the deck.
You also want to choose a color that hide soiling easily and that works nicely with the color of the deck and lower areas of the boat. It is not rocket science, but you do have a few other factors to consider, including who to hire for the installation. Take the time and you’ll get great results and lots of use out of the new carpeting for your yacht or boat.