Installing boat deck fittings correctly

Boat deck fittings can become loose over time and even cause leakage. Especially on boats with balsa decks, it is important that all fittings are installed properly and leak-proof. A leaking deck fitting can cause damage to deck cores and boat interiors. 

In the following article, we like to explain how to properly install boat deck fittings.

Step-by-step plan for installing boat deck fittings correctly

• Determine the location. Take into account the surrounding forces and obstacles to determine the right location. Also check whether the chosen location is strong enough to allow the fittings to be installed and that, if any fittings are to be bolted on, the nuts at the bottom are not slightly in the way.
• Apply adhesive tape where the fittings are to be installed..
• Mark the drill holes on the tape.
• Decide whether to screw or bolt and what diameter to use.
• Drill a small hole. If screwing, drill the hole until the screw goes into the material. If you're using a screw, drill the hole all the way through.
• It is now possible to determine whether the polyester under the fitting is single or double (sandwich). The method of fixing the hardware is different:

Installing boat deck fittings in double-laminate (sandwich laminate):

• Drill a much larger hole. The hole can be twice the diameter of the screw or bolt to be used. Do not drill through the bottom laminate. If necessary, remove a little extra material using a router or, in the case of a foam core, using a small Allen key in the drill.
• Apply adhesive tape to the bottom of the hole.
• Fill the hole with epoxy, possibly thickened with Stewathix or cotton fibre.
• Once hardened, follow the instructions for fixing the fittings in the single laminate.

Installing boat deck fittings in single laminate:

• Drill a hole of the correct diameter. For a screw, this is the diameter of the shank. For a bolt, it is the outside diameter of the bolt.
• Chamfer the hole using a chamfer bit. The chamfer can be 1 to 2 mm. This chamfer will prevent the drill hole from leaking later. If necessary, also deburr the rear face.
• Hold the fitting in position and cut the adhesive tape with a sharp knife. Remove the fitting and remove the paper strip from underneath.
• Apply sufficient Tec7 sealant to the polyester and around the holes. Press the hardware into the putty and secure with screws or bolts.
• At the rear, apply washers or a backing plate of sufficient size, if necessary, and fit the nuts.
• Remove any excess putty using a spatula, a putty knife, a little white spirit and a cloth. Then remove any remaining adhesive tape.

Installing boat deck fittings in aluminum:

• Drill a hole of the correct diameter. For a screw, this is the diameter of the shank. For a bolt, it is the outside diameter of the bolt.
• Apply enough Tikal Tef-Gel screw paste under the fitting and on the screw.
• Screw the fitting into place.