Whether you’re refurbishing an existing boat or you’re having a yacht custom-designed, flooring is a crucial choice to determine functionality and style. With many options available you’ll want to do some research to figure out what flooring you want in different areas of your boat. Here are some of the most common types of marine flooring you can choose from.
Wood
Boats have been made out of wood for centuries. With proper maintenance and care, wood can withstand a multitude of environments and weather. One of the most popular choices is oak because of its strength and durability. It can handle any boat furniture outdoor living you want to place on top of it. Wood can be expensive and does weather with time, making it a choice that will require upkeep and periodic refinishing.
Vinyl Planks
The right kind of vinyl planking is water-resistant and can handle large amounts of weight, which means it can work well on a boat. Depending on your decor style, planks come in all colors and can even look like wood. If you need to remodel your boat in the future or purchase a new boat, vinyl planks can be reused and re-installed. They can also be lifted out and air-dried in the case of a flooded cabin. Maintenance is easy, requiring occasional mopping and sweeping to keep them looking beautiful.
Carpet
Carpet tiles are easy to install and replace and come in a huge variety of colors and styles. More plush options are fantastic for cabin areas, but durable carpet options are also available for the deck. Some options are eco-friendly, made from recycled materials like plastic bottles. This material can prevent mold and mildew from growing. If a spill occurs on one tile, you only need to replace that one, making carpet tiles an affordable option. Not all carpeting can handle the sun, so make sure you choose a fabric that is UV resistant for the deck areas.
Rubber Flooring
Even if you don’t want rubber flooring across your whole deck, you’ll want some areas covered to help prevent slips and falls. It’s comfortable underfoot and is environmentally friendly since it’s made from recycled car tires. It’s not UV-resistant so you may want mats that you can store away while not in use. Rubber can also get hot in the sun so make sure to protect your feet on sunny days.
Your aesthetic style and budget will determine what flooring options are the best choices for your boat.