Inflatable vessel operation is a constant balance between comfort, safety and weight performance. Any experienced angler or boater knows that a standard inflatable floor, even one made using technology, is a standard inflatable floor. AirDeckIt doesn't always provide the proper protection from abrasion and cold. It's where the specialized rug in the pvc boat comes on the scene, which becomes not just a tuning element, but a vital necessity to preserve the life of your boat.
Many beginners mistakenly believe that it is enough to throw a piece of linoleum or old carpet on the floor, but water, sand and sharp stones dictate their conditions. A properly chosen coating should not only protect the cylinders and the bottom from mechanical damage, but also provide thermal insulation and anti-slip effects. Effectiveness of protection It depends on the material, thickness and method of laying the selected product.
In this article, we will discuss in detail which mat is best for your boat model, consider the advantages of modern materials and give step-by-step instructions for surface preparation. material EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) Today, it is considered the gold standard in the world of water tourism, and how to avoid common mistakes when equipping a cockpit.
Why you need a protective mat: functions and tasks
The primary task of any coating in a cockpit is bottom-up When we land frequently, especially on rocky or sandbanks, PVC tissue is subjected to tremendous friction, and even microscopic grains of sand that fall between the bottom of the boat and the ground act as sandpaper, gradually thinning the protective layer.
The second, equally important aspect is heat-insulationWater, even in summer, is often cold, and the inflatable floor, pumped with air, quickly cools down and pulls heat from the fisherman's body. A quality mat creates an air layer, allowing you to stay comfortably in the boat for hours without the risk of overcooling.
⚠️ Warning: Using slippery materials (such as smooth plastic or wet plywood) without anti-slip coating can cause a boat to fall overboard when a boat is moving sharply or turbulent.
Comfort and ergonomics are also worth mentioning: a hard inflated bottom can be uncomfortable for long fishing when you have to kneel or sit on the floor. Specialized rugs with a cellular structure or pile provide cushioning and reduce the load on the joints.
- 🛡️ Preventing punctures and scuffs from stones, shells and roots.
- 🌡️ Keeping heat and protecting against cold water if it gets into the cockpit.
- 🦶 Ensuring reliable adhesion of shoes to the floor surface.
- 🧹 Simplifying cleaning: the dirt remains on the mat rather than rubbed into the PVC structure.
Comparison of materials: EVA, plywood or rubber?
The inflatable boat accessories market offers several basic coating types, each with its own specifications. plywoodIt's a cheap, hard-core version that keeps its shape perfectly, but has one critical drawback: weight and moisture capacity.
The modern alternative is the material. EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate)It's a foamed polymer that feels like a dense but elastic rubber, it's absolutely water-free, lightweight, rotting, and it has great thermal insulation properties. The EVA rug in the PVC boat is an investment in durability, because it's not corroded or exposed to ultraviolet.
Rubber car mats are also sometimes used, but they often have a specific smell and can be too heavy. In addition, cheap rubber in the cold blubbers and cracks, while quality rubber is very heavy. EVA material It retains elasticity even at negative temperatures.
When choosing between plywood and EVA, consider the frequency of use of the boat. For rare trips to calm water, plywood is also suitable, but for active tourism and fishing in any conditions. EVA-coating out of competition.
Technical specifications and sizes of coatings
When choosing a mat, you need to consider the dimensions of your boat's cockpit. Standard models are often produced in the form of sheets that can be cut into size, or in the form of ready-made sets consisting of several segments. The thickness of the material plays a key role: too thin a sheet will not save from the cold, and excessively thick can "eat" useful space.
The optimal thickness for EVA-mat is considered to be a range of 5 to 10 mm. 5-6 mm They're good for abrasion, but they're worse for keeping heat. 8-10 mm They provide maximum comfort and protection, but may be less resistant to heavy loads.
| Parameter | EVA foam | Plywood + carpet | Rubber mat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight. | Very light (0.3-0.5 kg/m2) | Severe (5-7 kg/m2) | Medium/Severe |
| Moisture resistance | 100% (not absorbing) | Low (requires drying) | High. |
| Heat insulation | High. | Medium | Low. |
| Term of service | 5-10 years | 2-4 years (rotting) | 3-5 years |
It's important to pay attention to the surface. A smooth mat is easier to wash, but a grooved mat (in a cell or "cell") is better at removing water from under the feet and providing better grip. Some models have a two-way structure: smooth from the bottom to protect PVC and corrugated from the top for the legs.
Surface preparation and glue selection
The quality of the mat laying depends on the preparation of the surface. Even the most expensive glue will not keep the coating on dirty, greasy or wet PVC fabric. Before starting work, you must thoroughly wash the bottom of the boat, removing the sand, silt and residues of old lubricant.
For degreasing the surface is ideal. acetone Or a special PVC degreaser. Wipe the sticking areas with clean rags soaked in a solvent and let them dry for 10-15 minutes. Do not use gasoline or aggressive solvents that can damage the top protective layer of the fabric.
☑️ Preparation for mat installation
The choice of glue is a critical point. A regular "moment" or stationery glue is not suitable here, because they are not elastic and can detach when the cylinder is deformed. Use only specialized ones. PVC polyurethane-based (e.g., Clay 88-NP, Klejmit, Texacol or two-component compositions).
⚠️ Warning: Never apply glue to dusty or wet surfaces, which will cause the mat to detach instantly when it is first loaded or wet.
If you are planning a temporary stacking (without glue), make sure the mat has an anti-slip base or use double-sided PVC tape, although the latter option is less reliable in the long run.
Step by step instructions: how to glue the mat
The installation process requires precision and technology. First, spread the material in the boat and make sure it fits perfectly in shape without getting on board or interfering with the installation of seats. If necessary, trim the excess edges with a sharp knife.
Apply the first layer of glue on the PVC fabric and on the back of the mat. Let it dry to a "stick" state (usually 10-20 minutes, the time depends on the air temperature and the type of glue), then apply the second layer of glue on both surfaces and let it dry again.
Air temperature for gluing: from +15 ° C to +25 ° CDrying time between layers: 15-20 minutes
Time of complete polymerization: 24-48 hours
Connect the glued surfaces, starting from the center to the edges, carefully rolling with a roller or a cloth to expel the air bubbles. The pressure should be uniform and strong enough.
What to do if the glue freezes too quickly?
If the glue is dry, do not immediately try to glue. Carefully dryer the glued surfaces to a temperature of 40-50 degrees, this activates the glue and allows you to dock.
After gluing, leave the boat straightened for at least 24 hours (preferably 48) at room temperature. Do not pump the cylinders to maximum pressure on the first day, so that the seam does not disperse when the fabric is stretched.
Coverage care and service life
Proper care will prolong the life of your mat and the boat itself. After every fishing trip, especially if there was dirt or sand at the bottom, the mat must be removed (unless it is glued to the ground) or thoroughly washed under the water stream. The sand left between the mat and the bottom, when the boat is blown away, works like an abrasive.
You can keep a boat with a glued mat, but it is better to periodically check the condition of the edges. If you use a removable version, keep the mat in an unswerved form or in a loosely twisted roll, avoiding clamps.
- 🧼 Wash the mat with soft soap regularly, avoid chlorine-containing products.
- ☀️ Dry the coating in the shade, direct sunlight when drying can lead to deformation.
- 🔍 Once a season, check the integrity of the edges and glue them if necessary.
To remove persistent stains from the EVA mat, use a mixture of warm water and a small amount of dishwashing agent. Avoid solvents when cleaning an already glued mat so as not to damage the glue seam.
The lifespan of a quality EVA mat is 5-10 years, which is much higher than the life of the boat itself when it is actively used. Plywood structures serve less due to delamination and rotting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I put a carpet on a cold cloth in winter?
No, it's not recommended. PVC glue requires temperatures above 15°C for proper polymerization. It won't catch the glue in the cold, and the fabric will be too rigid. Warm up the boat in a warm room before you start.
Do I need to remove the rug for the winter during storage?
If the mat is glued well throughout the area, you don't need to remove it. However, if the glue was made fragmentary or there are doubts about the quality of the glue, it is better to remove the coating, dry the bottom and the mat separately to avoid mold formation between the layers.
What is better to cut the EVA mat: with a knife or scissors?
It is best to use a sharp construction knife or a special knife to cut materials. Scissors can chew the material and leave an uneven, shaggy edge that will be difficult to fit neatly under the sides.
Will the rug affect the boat’s loading capacity?
The impact is minimal. The weight of a high-quality EVA mat on an average boat is 1-2 kg, which is irrelevant for a load capacity of 300-500 kg. However, it adds stiffness to the bottom, which can subjectively improve driving performance.
The main conclusion: EVA foam mat is the optimal combination of weight, protection and comfort for PVC boats, which pays off by extending the life of an expensive inflatable floor.