Installing EVA Flooring Over Bolts in Swim Platform

When upgrading your boat’s swim platform, installing EVA foam flooring is an excellent way to improve comfort, safety and style. EVA foam provides a soft, non-slip surface that is gentle on bare feet and stays cool in the sun. It’s also highly durable, UV-resistant, and easy to clean. However, installing EVA flooring over existing hardware like bolts and fasteners requires some special considerations and techniques.

Preparing the Swim Platform Surface

The first critical step is to thoroughly clean and prepare the swim platform surface. This will ensure the adhesive forms a strong, lasting bond. Follow these steps:

1. Remove any old flooring material, carpet or treads
2. Clean the entire surface with a degreaser or solvent to remove dirt, grime and residue
3. Sand down any rough spots or protrusions to create an even surface
4. Fill any cracks or holes with marine-grade filler, and allow to fully cure
5. Wipe down the surface with isopropyl alcohol to remove any final dust and debris

Dealing with Bolts and Hardware

Most swim platforms have various bolts, screws, handles, cleats and other hardware that pose a challenge when installing a continuous sheet of EVA foam. There are a few options for working around these obstacles:

Drill Holes: Carefully measure and mark the location of each bolt or fitting on the EVA sheet. Drill a hole slightly larger than the hardware diameter. Slip the sheet over the hardware and adhere in place.

Cut Slits: For some hardware like handles or cleats, you can cut a slit from the nearest edge of the EVA sheet to the hardware location. Wrap the slit edges around the base of the hardware.

Remove and Reinstall: In some cases, you may need to completely remove the hardware in order to install the flooring underneath. Be sure to mark the exact location of each piece for easy reinstallation.

Templating and Cutting the EVA Foam

Making an accurate template is key to achieving a precise fit on your swim platform. Use heavy craft paper or cardboard to create a pattern:

1. Lay the template material on the platform and carefully trace the outer edges
2. Mark the location of any hardware, and label the type (bolt, cleat, etc.)
3. Cut out the pattern, and test fit on the platform to verify accuracy
4. Transfer the pattern to your EVA foam sheet, and carefully cut it out with a sharp utility knife
5. Make any needed adjustments, and label the top/front surface if needed

Adhering the EVA Foam Flooring

With the swim platform prepped and the EVA flooring cut to size, you’re ready to adhere it in place. Most EVA foam has a strong peel-and-stick backing that creates a permanent bond:

1. Ensure the platform surface is completely clean and dry
2. Peel back just the leading edge of the adhesive backing
3. Carefully align the EVA foam on the platform, and stick down the leading edge
4. Slowly peel back more of the backing while pressing the foam down with a roller
5. Work from one end to the other, keeping the sheet tight and aligned
6. Firmly press down all areas with a roller, especially edges and corners
7. Trim any excess material with a sharp blade for a clean, finished edge

Advantages of EVA Foam Boat Flooring

Related Products:EVA Flooring

Installing an EVA foam floor on your boat’s swim platform offers many important benefits:

• Soft, comfortable cushioning for bare feet
• Excellent wet and dry traction for safety
• Cool to the touch, even in direct sunlight
• Resistant to UV rays, stains and mildew
• Easy to clean with soap and water
• Highly durable and long-lasting
• Customizable colors and textures to suit any style

With the proper installation techniques, EVA foam makes an ideal upgrade for your boat’s swim platform. Take the time to carefully prepare the surface, create an accurate template, and work around any challenging bolts or hardware. The result will be a functional and attractive flooring surface that you can enjoy for many boating seasons to come.

IDALAKE offers a wide selection of premium EVA foam flooring for boats, as well as helpful tools and resources for DIY installation. Upgrade your boat with IDALAKE EVA flooring today!