Marine Grade Boat Carpet vs. Outdoor Carpet
When it comes time to replace your boat’s carpet, the most common question consumers have is “What is the difference between marine-grade boat carpet and the outdoor carpet offered at local carpet and flooring stores?” hardware stores?”
Although there are many similarities and the look or feel is very similar, there are many key features that make these two styles of rug very different. These specific characteristics are the determining factors in how long your new carpet will last. Marine grade rugs will not only last longer, but will also hold up their appearance under the harsh marine elements for years to come.
Marine Grade Boat Mat Features:
- with rubber backing
- fray resistant
- Fade/UV resistant
- stain resistant
- Mold/mildew resistant
- rot resistant
- Weatherproof
- polypropylene yarn
- not flammable
- 3 year warranty
- Porous backing for fast drying
Although some of these features can also be found in standard outdoor rugs, you will notice a big difference. The one key factor that makes these two rug styles so different is the rug’s rubber backing. The marine grade boat mat has a true rubber backing into which UV resistant polypropylene yarn is woven directly. This allows the rug to be breathable, making it resistant to moisture that causes mold, mildew, and rot over time. Due to the constant exposure of your boat carpet to the harsh marine environment, it is essential to consider the above features when looking for a replacement carpet for your boat. Many carpet suppliers and stores will endorse their outdoor carpeting for replacement on boats, but the fact is that when boat manufacturers install carpeting, they always use marine grade carpeting.
There are many reasons why you shouldn’t use the outdoor rugs you find at local rug and hardware stores. What you will find with almost all outdoor rugs is that they have a rubber applied indoor rug backing. This primary backing is a woven or non-woven fabric into which the yarn is inserted by tufting needles. After the yarn is inserted, a secondary backing consisting of another fabric is laminated over the primary backing to increase its dimensional stability. Due to these organic and fibrous backings, deterioration is almost certain to occur rapidly with any marine application. These backings will not only deteriorate, but the thread will strip from the rubber applied to your backing. Since carpet has multiple backings, it creates breathability issues, resulting in excess moisture under the carpet that causes severe mold and mildew damage. In most cases, not only will the carpet come apart, but it will also cause future problems with the hardwood floor and boat deck. In general, outdoor rug can be a cheaper and more convenient solution, but it can turn out to be a much more expensive project in the long run.
When it’s time to replace your boat’s carpet, be sure to reach for the recommended replacement marine grade carpet, built to withstand harsh marine environments and abuse. Not only will it look better and last longer, it will also protect your investment.
