Are you coming unstuck? If your headlining is starting to part company with the deckhead, it’s time for a makeover. Jake Kavanagh follows professional upholsterer Roger Nantais as he refurbishes a Westerly Seahawk
Tools of the trade
Industrial gloves, full face anti-fume breathing mask, multi-bit screwdriver, cap, white spirit, goggles, contact adhesive, vacuum cleaner, several new craft blades (Roger buys them in bulk), trimming knife, large scissors, spray-gun (or aerosol glue), brush, clear-drying glue, wire brush, hot-air gun, angle grinder with steel brush attachment.
What does it cost?
■ Foam-backed vinyl is usually supplied in rolls measuring 54ins (1.37m) across, by 82ft (25m) long, as shown by Roger, left. Retailers will sell it by the linear metre for around £11 inc VAT, although the more you buy the more you can save. A litre of contact adhesive will cost around £8, and should be enough for 4sq m. A 500ml aerosol costs around £5.
Professional job
The cost of relining the forecabin, which included two hanging lockers, was £1,200 (including VAT, travel and materials). The total bill, which included the aft cabin, and most of the main saloon (but not the saloon headlinings, as these are plywood veneer) came to £3,000 inc VAT.
Where to get it?
■ Foam-backed vinyl can be sourced from a number of outlets. Roger uses Toomer and Hayter of Bournemouth (tel: 01202 515789; www.toomerandhayter.co.uk) who also offer a trimming and sewing service. Retailers usually supply recommended adhesives and fastenings. Three of the main marine companies are listed below:
Hawke House Marine, 95 Newgate Lane, Peel Common, Fareham, Hants PO14 1BA;
tel: 01329 668800;
www.hawkehouse.com
Point North, Porthdafarch Road, Holyhead, Anglesey LL65 2LP;
tel: 01407 760195;
www.enquiries@pointnorth.co.uk
Boyriven Ltd, The Fairground, Weyhill, Andover SP11 0QN;
tel: 01264 771414;
www.info@boyriven.co.uk
■ Roger Nantais is based in Dorset, and trained with Sunseeker Powerboats of Poole before going self-employed. He travels widely to fit out boats, including visits to the Med.