Benefits of Vinyl vs Carpet for Boat Flooring

When it comes to boat flooring, you have options: carpet or marine vinyl flooring. As with any new purchase, weighing the pros and cons for each can help your buying decision. If you like a material that’s easy to clean, upholds color over time, and repels water, vinyl is your best option. Here’s why many boat owners prefer marine vinyl flooring over carpet.  

Squeaky Clean  

Unlike carpet, vinyl is low maintenance. Because it does not have absorbent properties, it is easy to clean. All you have to do to keep it looking brand new is scrub it with cleaner and water. Don’t forget to pressure wash the flooring when you go to winterize it at the end of the season. 

On the contrary, carpet soaks up dirt, sand, fish guts, and anything else that makes its way on to your boat. As a boat owner, you’ll be nervous when your guests drink colored beverages or get motion sickness on your boat. For stains, you have to use special carpet cleaner that may not completely remove the stain. Vinyl makes for a carefree boat ride since maintenance and clean-up are easier than ever. 

No Fading 

Unlike carpet, vinyl flooring is UV stabilized.  Long, hot days on the boat can cause the carpet to fade over time. Eventually, they’ll need to be replaced. Carpeted flooring causes you to spend more money in the long run with frequent replacement projects. Marine vinyl fabric has specific additives that improve its prevention from sun damage, saving you money overtime.  

Moisture-Repelling  

Boats operate in high-moisture environments, which makes them susceptible to mold and mildew. Fortunately, marine-grade vinyl resists moisture, preventing fungus and bacteria from growing.  

On the contrary, carpeting encourages mildew since it never fully dries. Trapped water in a confined space leads to mold growth and bacteria. Once carpet gets infested with mildew, it’s only a matter of time before everything gets affected.  If your carpet-covered deck feels creaky, it may be from softened wood underneath. Continuously wet carpet will weaken the deck materials, and the floorboard will become a dangerous surface.  

Better Warranty  

Vinyl manufacturers realize that carpet can damage your deck after extended moisture retention. As a result, they offer longer warranties when you install marine vinyl flooring. During installation, vinyl is glued down so heavily and securely that it creates a waterproof seal. Due to its durability, this type of flooring will always outlast carpet.  

The advantages of vinyl far outweigh those of carpet. From the ease of maintaining it, to lessened worry of underdeck rotting, vinyl flooring is the perfect investment for your boat. All Vinyl Fabrics has a wide range of marine vinyl fabric in multiple styles and color options. Contact All Vinyl Fabrics to learn more about how your vinyl flooring options. Call today at 1-877-518-4695 today!