[kdumph]

I have a 41 ft sea ray aft cabin that I'm looking to recarpet. My internet searches and forum search didn't turn up to much. I'm curious about how much it would typically cost? I'm a pretty do it yourself guy, but I have never laid carpet. Any comments or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[NYCAP123]

Most boat carpet is bordered and snapped in place. Often lots of odd cuts as well. If that's it you should consider having it installed. Otherwise, if it's residential w2w, you'll need to rent a kicker (how are your knees?) which you can get at HD. While there get your price per foot. Most carpet comes in 12' widths. Carpet installation is one job I avoid. I just ordered average carpeting from a local company for a 9x11 room in my house. It was just under $600 installed, with padding.

[Capt J]

Make sure you install marine grade carpet. It has a different backing, I believe they call it Jute, then your standard household carpet

[Pascal]

Depends on how the carpet is installed in your boat. I ve done it a few times it s pretty easy. Due to the small areas and often complex cuts, angle and corners you don't need tack strips and you can just lay the carpet. Take the old pieces as patterns, cut the new ones and you re done

No binding on the edge needed.

I ve used regular home carpet for years, no problem

Be ready for sticker shock when you get an estimate for installation

[NYCAP123]

Jute is a stiff twine, excellent for non-w2w carpet (and good on all) because it hold its shape and only needs to be snapped in place. Marine grade refers more to the on-deck carpeting. For inside any good quality, stain resistant carpet should do. I'd recommend binding any traffic edges to avoid unraveling.

[kdumph]

Thank you for the replies, I think I'm going to tackle this project myself!

[Fireman431]

Depending on your boat layout and size, there are options.

*Carpet goods are available in standard 12' widths. 16' goods are available, but those usually have to be ordered through a carpet store.

*The backing of the carpet (as stated) is generally the tan jute woven backing, which is fine for anything interior. Marine carpet has the black foam/rubber backing which is also treated for mildew repellancy.

*Your carpet may (or may not) have tacking strips in place such as a house would. You won't know until you remove the original flooring.

*You don't have to use a kicker if your hips or knees aren't up to it. You can rent a power stretcher, which is a racheting carpet stretcher that positions itself against the opposite wall for stability. Takes a little longer, but is easier on the body.

*Google 'laying carpet' and see how the final cuts are made to ensure a good fit. There is a special tool for it and it's not that expensive. Makes short work of the cutting. Also look into the videos for seaming carpet as well. Keep any seams in low traffic areas.

* You will probably also need an air stapler & small compressor for any stairs, hatches, and closet areas. Beg/borrow/rent one from an upholstery shop.

I found carpet installers very competetively priced. My quote was for $400 to redo all of the carpet in a 37' Carver. That was for removal & reinstallation. Not worth my time for that.