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I’m replacing my original snap-in carpet on my 2015 R5 with Seadek and looking for a recommendation for a sealant to fill the screw holes throughout the deck after removing the snap-in screws. Considering 3M 5200, Sika 291, or just filling the holes with gelcoat. Any one of these options better then the others? Pros and cons of either?

have you considered keeping the snaps and having a snap in seadek?

Thanks for responding Vtengr. I did consider using snap-in seadek or an equivalent but decided against it. I’m going with another vendors solution which is a PE blend closed cell foam. Compared to Seadek It’s more durable, lighter, stain resistant, and more pet friendly. The company is based out of Canada but it’s not offered in a snap version. I do appreciate the flexibility of snap-in but I also don’t like that dirt and grime can get under the snap-in decking. No different then the carpet I’m replacing. So going to remove the screws and looking for a recommendation on what to use to fill the holes. The manufacturer of the foam is recommending Sika 291 marine poly sealant.

You would need to plug the holes first with something then you could put white gel in the hole after that. That's probably what I would do.

3M 5200 is a solid choice. It's known for its incredible durability and strong bond. However, it's like the Velcro of sealants – once it's on, it's on, and removing it later can be a real chore.
On the flip side, Sika 291 is a bit more forgiving in terms of removal. It still offers a good seal but with a tad more flexibility if you ever need to make changes or repairs.
Then there's the gelcoat option. It's a more DIY approach and can look great when done right. However, it might not be as long-lasting as the other sealants.
Here's a nugget of wisdom: I stumbled upon this online store specializing in bolts and screws. You might find some golden advice there for your project.

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So glad you found us Sue H.

Appreciate the input.

Any pics of your Cobalt?

And welcome aboard mate!

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Some company should come up with a snap replacement where you back on the screw and screw in a new piece without the snap.

Who wants to go into business with me?

Do you mind sharing the Canadian company name or website? Looking at Seadek alternatives as well.

Thanks

Pilotmike wrote: Wed Sep 27, 2023 11:31 am Do you mind sharing the Canadian company name or website? Looking at Seadek alternatives as well.

Thanks

Sounds a lot like these guys - https://www.ultradeck.ca/

I got a quote from Ultradeck last year for my 232 - it was a stock pattern for them.
The price is REALLY attractive because of the exchange rate.

I would say go with the 5200 - since you're sticking the decking down it kinda makes removing it moot. But it could be drilled again to take a self-tapping screw if ever wanted to replace the studs.
Gelcoat is a lot off faffing about when it's going to be covered - if it was being left exposed that might be different.

The holes from the snaps will be covered up by the new flooring right? In that case I would not go crazy, I personally do not like 5200 except in rare cases where you are bedding/bonding something that you intend to be permanent. Many people use it as a caulking which it is not - the stuff is crazy messy and if you do not catch it before it cures you WILL NOT get it off. In this case, if the holes are going to be covered by the new flooring, I would go with a good caulking like BoatLife or 4200 which is not considered permanent. You are really just trying to keep any water out of the screw holes.

I did go with the UltraDeck and sealed my snap screw holes with 4200. The 4200 worked perfectly and the new UltraDeck looks great. Lots of compliments and everyone who sees it says they want to replace their carpet with UltraDeck. The people at UltraDeck are very friendly, professional, and great to work with.