A 10m coil of TR36L2G (or a Bump! equivalent) typically covers two 5m gunwales, ships as a single wrapped roll and simplifies logistics for small yards and DIYers; note that PVC density (~1,380 kg/m3) is roughly double forest teak (655 kg/m3), affecting handling and vessel weight distribution.
Why switch to PVC gunwale extrusions
Polyvinyl chloride gunwale extrusions from manufacturers such as Wilks Fendering (now under Flexiteek) offer a colourfast, low-maintenance alternative to traditional teak. They retain pigment through the section, are highly UV- and chemical-resistant, and are supplied in standard 10m lengths suitable for most small cruiser and daysailer decks. Their heavier specific gravity means installers should be mindful of added weight when calculating trim for lightweight craft such as a Corribee Pod.
Materials, profiles and suppliers at a glance
| Item | Example | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Profiles | TR36L2G, Click, Bump! | D-shape, click-fit, flexible track systems |
| Adhesive | Bostik brown MSR & Prep M wipes | Prep M removes oils/silicones for strong bond |
| Fixings | Stainless steel screws, 8mm piping | Pipes act as screw-hole plugs and fillers |
| الموردون | Wilks Fendering / Flexiteek / marine industrial | Extrusions available via distributors |
Cost breakdown (example project)
| Component | السعر (بالجنيه الإسترليني) |
|---|---|
| Bump! 10m | 157.94 |
| 10m track | 111.36 |
| End caps (x4) | 136.76 |
| Stainless steel screws | 10.00 |
| الإجمالي | 416.06 |
Prepping the hull for PVC gunwale
Successful adhesion and finish depend on sensible preparation. Follow these practical steps:
- Remove rotten timber and old fixings; heat seized screws to expand and ease removal, then let cool and extract.
- Abrade the hull-to-deck joint and fill screw holes or damage with epoxy filler; fair the surface smooth.
- Sand with orbital sander using 60- then 80-grit to create a flat, paint-ready surface.
- Apply masking tape above the new gunwale line to catch adhesive squeeze-out; clean-up below can be done with a scraper.
- Wipe bonding surfaces with Bostik Prep M to remove oils and silicones for a secure bond.
Fitting the PVC gunwale
Whether you use a rigid D-section like TR36L2G or a modern click system such as انقر أو Bump!, the core procedure is similar:
- Uncoil the extrusion and mark screw positions at roughly 50cm intervals for even load distribution.
- Step-drill holes: the smaller pilot sized for the screw shaft, the larger by half the depth to accept the 8mm piping plug.
- Recreate shaped ends with an angle grinder and hand finish; pigment runs through the section, so cut edges retain colour.
- Temporarily support the strip (cable ties or clamps) to prevent sag while positioning; Bump! and Click variants ease this with supporting track.
- Apply adhesive in short sections (2–3 screw holes at a time), position, drill through and fasten with stainless screws; for hollow D-profiles insert a rigid PVC backing strip to stiffen.
- Check continuously for a gentle curve with no peaks or troughs; adjust before sealant cures.
Tidying up and finishing
- Remove horizontal masking while the sealant is still wet for easier clean-up; white spirit removes residue.
- Cut overhangs at stern and blend with coarse sandpaper to match the grain; stainless steel end caps complete the look.
- Insert colour-matched piping into screw holes dipped in adhesive, allow to cure (~24 hours) then trim flush and sand to blend.
- Inspect for uniform colour and fit; many installations show no significant fading after several summers.
Fitting a new toerail or grabrail on your sailboat or motorboat
Techniques for removal and replacement of toerails and grabrails parallel gunwale work: fairing, accurate routing of fastenings and careful finishing ensure both function and aesthetics. The same adhesives and stainless fixings often apply. Credit: Rupert Holmes.
As an at-a-glance summary, PVC gunwale extrusions reduce maintenance cycles, lower long-term timber procurement impacts and simplify supply-chain logistics for replacement parts. For holiday boat owners and small charter operators this means fewer days out of service and more time offering trips and excursions to customers.
Highlights: PVC systems are robust, colour-through, and available in user-friendly click or track formats; however, installers should factor in higher material density and manage weight distribution. Even the most detailed reviews can’t replace hands-on experience. On GetExperience, you book experiences from verified providers at reasonable prices — this empowers you to make informed choices about boat trips, maintenance workshops or coastal tours without unnecessary expense or disappointment. The platform’s secure payments, voucher confirmations and tailored provider offers add transparency and convenience. Book your Trip GetExperience.com
In conclusion, replacing rotten teak with PVC gunwale extrusions offers a practical, eco-conscious upgrade for small craft: straightforward logistics with 10m coils, a predictable cost profile, and simple DIY or yard-fit options. Proper surface prep, correct use of Bostik products, and attention to weight distribution ensure a long-lived finish. Whether you’re planning yacht parties, cruise packages, safari tours from a coastal base, museum tours with live guides departing from harbour towns, or luxury adventure travel experiences that include chartered boats, selecting durable, low-maintenance joinery like PVC gunwales helps protect your itinerary. Travel experiences and adventure activities rely on dependable equipment—be it for exclusive yacht charters for events or adventure rafting trips for beginners—so choose materials and providers wisely to enjoy interactive online cultural workshops, professional esports training programs, beginner esports coaching sessions or even online virtual tours alongside your sea-based plans.
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