How to Repair a Damaged Floor in a Boat

The purpose of a boat is to allow you to travel over water. To each his or her own, but most people want their feet to stay dry while they are in the boat. Nothing can be more frustrating than a hole in the boat floor that constantly fills the boat with water. A few simple steps and your feet as well as anything you normally store on the floor of your boat will stay dry.

Things You'll Need

• 60 and 80 grit dry sandpaper
• Wood filler
• 120 grit wet sandpaper
• Marine waterproofing
• General purpose paint brush
• Paint or varnish to match existing finish

Instructions

1. Sand the damaged area starting with the 60 grit sandpaper, then repeat with the 80 grit sandpaper.

2. Apply wood filler to the damaged area liberally, but not so much that you can't sand it easily and let it dry per the instructions.

3. Sand the wood filler with the 80 grit sandpaper until it is fairly smooth.

4. Spread the marine waterproofing sealer over the repair; allow it to set per the directions.

5. Sand the waterproof sealer with the 120 grit wet sandpaper just enough to ensure it won't be damaged by traffic.

6. Paint or varnish the repaired area and allow it to dry completely before use.

References

• Refinish Wood