The choice of a swimming aid for fishing or recreation is often a challenge for beginners and experienced boaters. polyvinyl chloride boats They're leading the way because they're versatile, but within this segment, there's a dilemma: either to stay on the classic inflatable floor or to choose a rigid model. liner?
Many inflatable boat owners have come to think of upgrading over time, a natural process of evolving needs when standard equipment is no longer enough for a comfortable time on the water. A hard bottom significantly increases stability and allows you to stand confidently during fishing. But is it really you, or is it better to keep it light and compact?
In this article, we will discuss all aspects of installing plywood or aluminum floors in detail. You will learn about the real advantages, hidden disadvantages and technical nuances that will help you make an informed decision. Don’t rush to buy the first kit you find until you have evaluated all the pros and cons.
What is a boat reservation and why is it necessary
In the context of inflatable vessels, reservations are meant to include special rigid flooring cylinders. plywoodIt's a moisture-resistant varnish, or light aluminum alloy, which makes the boat's soft belly into a flat, hard surface that looks like a boat deck.
The main purpose of this modernization is to create a rigid base, which is difficult to install an anchor box, a sonar, or just sit comfortably on a chair without falling between cylinders on an ordinary inflatable surface. Hard floor. distributes the load evenly and eliminates the risk of accidental damage to the bottom by sharp objects.
Also, having a solid bottom changes the water dynamics of the vessel, the boat prowls less on the wave and holds its course better, and for anglers who use spinning or trolling, this is a critical parameter that affects the quality of wiring and overall comfort.
- 🚣♂️ Provides a flat platform for installing additional equipment.
- 🛡️ Protects the lower part of the cylinders from punctures and abrasion.
- ⚓ Increases the stability of the vessel during the sharp movements of the fisherman.
Advantages of a hard bottom over an inflatable one
The first and most obvious advantage is comfortSo on a hard surface, you can put fishing boxes, thermoses and gear so that they don't roll over the cylinders, and you can use a full-fledged backrested chair, which you can't do on a soft bottom without risking damage.
The second important aspect is safety and durability: the inflatable floor (BND) is highly dense, but it is vulnerable to sharp hooks, knife or rocks on the shore. Plywood leaf Or aluminum takes the hit, keeping the cylinders intact.
It's also worth noting that a more powerful motor can be installed, and that rigid design can better handle vibrations and loads from lower unit, allowing you to achieve higher speeds without the risk of transection or valve detachment.
⚠️ Warning: Installing heavy armor increases the overall weight of the boat. Consider your vehicle's load capacity and physical capabilities when carrying.
Disadvantages and Limitations of Modification
Despite the obvious advantages, there is a downside to booking. weightPlywood sheets, even thin ones, can weigh between 10 and 20 kilograms in total with protective coatings, and for single boats, this can be a critical factor.
The second disadvantage is the loss of compactness: the inflatable floor can be folded together with the cylinders in one bag; the rigid elements require a separate package or a special case, which takes up more space in the trunk of the car, transportation becomes less convenient.
Also, the build and disassembly time of the boat increases, you need more time to spread the cylinders, insert stringers and lay the floor sheets, and in windy weather or if you need to quickly go down to the water, it can be uncomfortable.
- 📉 Increase the total weight of the transportation kit.
- 📦 Occupation of a larger volume in the luggage compartment of the car.
- ⏳ Time spent on installation and dismantling of rigid elements.
Impact on speed
There's a myth that a hard bottom is always faster than an inflatable floor. In fact, with the same length and shape of cylinders, the difference in speed is minimal, and it depends more on the build quality and engine power than on the type of floor.
Comparison of materials: plywood or aluminum
When you choose a reservation, the water motor is faced with a question of material. plywoodIt's an affordable and proven variant that's easy to make yourself or order in a workshop.
Aluminum sheets are a modern alternative, they're much lighter than plywood and they're not afraid of water at all, but they're more expensive, and they can make more noise when they come into contact with gear, if you don't use a slip coating.
For comparison of specifications, consider the following table, which will help determine the choice of material for your boat.
| Characterization | Sea plywood | Aluminum alloy | Plastic (HDPE) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight. | Medium. | Low. | Low. |
| Moisture resistance | Requires processing | Absolute. | Absolute. |
| Cost | Low. | High. | Medium |
| Noise | Low. | High. | Medium |
When choosing between materials, you should consider operating conditions. If you often leave the boat assembled or in high humidity, aluminum will be more reliable. For seasonal use with careful drying, high-quality plywood will also work.
Impact of booking on driving performance
Hard bottoms change the geometry of cylinders, they become more rounded in cross-section, which can theoretically increase the sailing and resistance of water, but in practice this effect is only noticeable at low speeds or with strong side winds.
In the planing, the hard bottom works as stabilizerThe boat gets a smaller nose peck when it's on mode and has a more steady horizontal position, which is especially important for boats up to 3 meters long, where every centimeter of length affects stability.
It's important to get the flooring right. A sheet that's too thin can bend under the weight of the motor and passengers, creating a hammock effect that will negatively affect speed. Too thick will unnecessarily weight the structure.
The optimal thickness of plywood for boats with a length of 3-3.5 meters is 6-7 mm. For larger models (4+ meters), it is recommended to use sheets with a thickness of 9 mm or a layered structure.
Installation technology and operating rules
Hard bottom installation requires a sequence of actions: first, cylinders are inflated to working pressure, then stringers are laid, and only then the floor sheets are mounted.
When operating, it is important to ensure that no foreign objects fall between the cylinders and the hard decking. Sand or small stones can rub the PVC fabric when the boat is moving on the water. Regular cleaning of the interior space is mandatory.
If you use plywood, do not forget to periodically check the lacquer coating, chipped or scratches, they must be immediately sealed to prevent the material from being detached from moisture. Aluminum does not need such care.
☑️ Checking before getting on the water
⚠️ Warning: Never leave a boat with a hard bottom set in direct sunlight for long periods unattended. The air inside the cylinders expands and hard sheets can create overpressure points leading to the seams rupturing.
The final decision: is sheepskin worth making
The answer to the question of whether you need a reservation depends solely on your goals: if you are an avid angler, spends 6-8 hours on the water, or like to bring a lot of equipment with you, you can use the same. hard-bottom The comfort you get will pay you back the money and effort you've spent.
For those who value mobility, often changing fishing spots, getting to the water by public transport or have limited storage space, the classic inflatable floor (BBB) will remain the more practical choice.
Ultimately, the boat should be a joy to the owner, not a problem, weigh the pros and cons, assess your physical capabilities and operating conditions, and make the right choices that will last for years.
Booking a PVC boat is a trade-off between maximum comfort on the water and ease of transportation. Choose what is more important for your leisure style.
How much will the weight of the boat increase after installing plywood?
Weight will increase by an average of 10-15 kg depending on the size of the boat and the thickness of the plywood. This is not critical for a two-seater boat, but it can be tangible for a single one.
Can I use conventional construction plywood?
It's not recommended, but the regular plywood will quickly dissipate from the moisture. sea-plywood (FSF or FC) with high-quality varnishing on all sides.
Will a boat with a heavy bottom sink if it flips over?
No, PVC tubes have sufficient buoyancy (sufficient buoyancy) to keep even a fully watered boat with a bottom installed, if it is not damaged.
How to keep a boat with a set bottom in winter?
The best way to do this is to remove the rigid elements, dry them separately from the cylinders, and store them in a warm, dry room, which will extend the lifespan of both the PVC fabric and the wood.