How to Repair a Boat Deck

A boat deck repair can be treated in the same way as the repair of a damaged patio deck. The boat deck is nothing more than the flooring that separates the upper deck of the boat from the compartments underneath. In order to replace the deck to your boat, treat the process in the same way you would repair a patio deck.

The tools, materials and steps needed to accomplish the repair of your boat deck are found in this article, as described below.

Step 1: Remove Boat Deck Boards

Using a pry bar, remove the nails and screws that hold the boat deck boards in place. You should inspect each of the deck boards to determine the extent to which they are damaged and only remove those deck boards that need to be replaced. Although this step talks about replacement of the deck boards, it should be understood that in most instances the best way to repair the deck boards is to replace them.

Step 2: Inspect the Boat Deck Joists

Inspect the joists that the deck boards rest on to see of any of them require replacement as well. The joists will be exposed as you pull up deck boards individually or if the entire deck is damaged, will be exposed in its entirety. Any damaged joists that you discover should be replaced in the same manner that the deck boards are replaced.

Step 3: Replace Boat Deck Boards

With the damaged deck boards removed and the joists inspected thoroughly, replace the deck boards with the same type of material that the original deck boards were. Use a screw gun or a nailer to affix the deck boards to the deck and attach them to the joists. Check the alignment of the deck boards and keep them flush.

Step 4: Seal the Boat Deck Boards and Joists

Use a sealant to protect the replaced boards and joists that were installed in your boat deck. The sealant should be sprayed or applied with a pain brush in order to cover the entire area of the boat deck.  Apply the appropriate number of coats of sealant to the boat deck as is required by the instructions for the product that you choose. Be sure the sealant is an all-weather sealant so that your repaired boat deck will last for a long time.

This will complete the review, inspection and repair or replacement of your boat deck. You should periodically inspect the boat deck for damages and wear and tear. This process can take place at the beginning of the boating season when the boat is placed in the water and at the end of the season when it is placed into dry dock. If the boat is used year-round, then every 6 months is a good schedule to pursue.