It may seem straightforward enough to take out your existing boat mat, box it up, with instructions: “make me one of these”.

Unfortunately, it isn’t that easy.

Over the years, boat mats are exposed to all types of conditions – sun, rain, water, extreme temperatures, even humidity.  And that is just the environment. Let’s not forget what we impose on the carpet: feet, sunscreen, food and drink. You name it. There is no doubt that even with the most meticulous boat owner, marine carpet takes a beating.  That beating will cause the mat to stretch and shrink, and ultimately, alter the shape of the mat permanently. The snapping in and out will also impact the shape especially if it is pulling harder in one direction.

The end result is the original mat set does not lay flat and when it is not being “pulled” in place by snaps maybe too short or long in certain areas.

That doesn’t mean you can’t use your original boat mat as starting point for a template. You can trace it and cut it out, but then be sure to lay it in your boat to test for fit.  You will probably need to add or take away some material to get an exact fit.  For template material, we recommend a reinforced plastic because it is easy to work with and you can see through it.  Template kits are available for purchase on our website.

A little extra effort will go a long way in making sure your new snap-in boat carpet fits perfectly.