Removing Tarp Snaps

[merc200]

The boat I bought last fall has about a hundred little tarp snaps screwed on just above the rub rail all around it. The tarp is probably long gone, and all I want to do is get rid of the snaps. However, if I remove them, then it will leave a hundred little holes in my boat. Is there anything out there like plastic plugs or similar I could plug the holes with? I'm guessing the screw holes are about 1/8" in diameter. I don't want to go to all the work of puting on a new gel-coat. Thanks.

 

[Solittle]

Re: Removing Tarp Snaps

Marine Tex is the best thing you could use. It is a two part epoxy - looks like putty and dries like steel.

 

[Ben Konopacky]

Re: Removing Tarp Snaps

merc200; IF the color is white use tub caulk...<br />worked on mine!

 

[merc200]

Re: Removing Tarp Snaps

That's a good idea, B-lucky! It was probably white at one time, but has become more of an off-white. It doesn't matter.......if I wanted a new boat I would have bought one! I'll remove the snaps and use caulking......can't belive I never thought of that before!

 

[Boomyal]

Re: Removing Tarp Snaps

if you just want to do it just once and have it done right, take SoLittles advice!<br /><br />When the caulk fails, and it will, you will have to redrill all the holes to get rid of the caulk residue before you can re-fix.

 

[f_inscreenname]

Re: Removing Tarp Snaps

At least get yourself a good caulk. Ever caulk around a tub, how long dose that last? And that is inside. Home Depot carries a 3M sealant ($10.00 a tube) for marine use. That would be least I would use. I would find a way to inject some sort of “jell coat” into the holes then wet sand smooth. Another thought. Have you taken off any of the snaps? I bet you find that most of the area under the snap is damaged. Just be prepared for the worst.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Removing Tarp Snaps

Merc200, You can buy plasic screw head covers. These will look better than the snaps. You will need to remove the snaps, put in SS or brass screws of the same diameter, and snap on the covers.