Renewing Your Boat's Wooden Decking: A DIY Guide to Save 95% 2026

Renewing the wooden decking (pagliolato) of a boat is an operation that, if entrusted to a specialized craftsman, can be very expensive. Therefore, it's highly recommended to do it yourself. But what is wooden decking for?

Fiberglass and other plastics used in the construction of small boats are lightweight, economical, and easy to work with, but when they get wet, they become slippery, leading to dangerous falls and unintended swims. Additionally, resting wet bare feet on synthetic materials is not pleasant.

These negative aspects are eliminated if you install wooden decking on the deck, featuring soft yet durable non-slip lines. However, it is always sold as an accessory.

With patience and precision, spending about 30 hours of work and only 150 euros (for a small boat), you can renew the wooden decking and save a lot—more than 1800 euros… try it to believe it!

Wooden Decking Cut to Size

For the deck renewal work, 8 mm Okoumé plywood was chosen: a sheet of 310x153 cm at a price of 50 euros. Alternatively, sheets of marine plywood in Burma teak or iroko, 310x125 cm, already grooved and with rubber inserted, would have cost 660 and 465 euros respectively to renew the wood.

After drawing the shapes of the various pieces intended for the covering on cardboard, the contours are transferred to the plywood and cut with a jigsaw, using guide strips and checking, piece by piece, that they fit correctly into the space intended for them.

Bow element with the relative cardboard template. Stern element ready for routing.

Boat Deck and Router

Piece by piece, the grooves are traced in pencil on the plywood, 5 mm wide and spaced 35 mm apart, intended to house the non-slip material, ensuring parallelism and squareness. The traces are then followed with a router, first with a straight bit and then with a round-tipped bit.

Even if the design is irregular, the result will be a beautifully restored deck that feels great underfoot. For all your home improvement and boat maintenance projects, having the right tools is essential. Consider upgrading your workspace with a sturdy desk or work surface for planning and small repairs. After a long day of DIY, you'll appreciate comfortable office chairs for relaxing or catching up on reading.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What type of wood is best for boat decking? Marine-grade plywood like Okoumé, Burma teak, or iroko is ideal due to its resistance to moisture and rot.
• How long does it take to renew a boat deck? For a small boat, expect to spend around 30 hours of work, depending on the complexity and your experience level.
• What tools do I need? You'll need a jigsaw, router with straight and round-tipped bits, pencil, measuring tape, and cardboard for templates.
• Can I save money by doing it myself? Yes, you can save up to 95% compared to hiring a professional, potentially saving over 1800 euros.

Once your boat deck is renewed, you might want to enhance your outdoor living spaces at home. Browse our selection of outdoor patio furniture to create a relaxing retreat. For your garden, explore our garden supplies to keep your plants thriving. And for evening gatherings, don't forget outdoor lighting to set the perfect ambiance.

More Tips for Your DIY Project

• Always measure twice and cut once to avoid wasting materials.
• Use a guide strip for the jigsaw to ensure straight cuts.
• Test fit each piece before final installation to ensure a snug fit.
• Apply a marine-grade sealant to protect the wood from moisture.

If you're also looking to upgrade your home's interior, consider a stylish sofa for your living room or a comfortable bed for better sleep. A new dining table can transform your meals, while rugs and curtains add warmth and style to any room. For the kitchen, our kitchen islands and carts offer extra storage and prep space.

Final Thoughts

Renewing your boat's wooden decking is a rewarding DIY project that saves money and adds value to your vessel. With the right materials and a bit of patience, you can achieve professional results. And while you're at it, don't forget to check out our wall decor and mirrors to refresh your home's look. For outdoor spaces, our outdoor decor and storage benches provide both style and functionality.

Browse Grand Goldman Home Decor

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