Aluminum or Wood

[Lynn]

I just bought a 16 foot Klamath center console and the wood will need replacing in the next year.
Can I use aluminum diamond plate instead of wood or is there a reason for wood?

 

[flatheadsteve]

For the transom? You can use aluminum not all manufacturers use wood. Very few manufacturers still use wood today.

 

[Lynn]

I apologize it's the wood for the seats the bow area and alongside the inside sides of the boat. It wasn't well maintained so I wire brushed it primed it and painted.
It looks good but it won't last much longer

 

[airshot]

Consider the pro's and con's......wood looks better to some, metal gets hot in the sun but doesn't have to be painted. Etc...etc...your boat, your call....

 

[Lynn]

I like the idea of aluminum because it doesn't require any upkeep and doesn't get soft.
I was mainly wondering why the wood was used in the first place? Was it just to save money? I would most likely put velcro cushions on the aluminum so heat wouldn't be an issue.

 

[airshot]

I like the idea of aluminum because it doesn't require any upkeep and doesn't get soft.
I was mainly wondering why the wood was used in the first place? Was it just to save money? I would most likely put velcro cushions on the aluminum so heat wouldn't be an issue.

Have you ever touched aluminum after sitting in the sun for a couple hours ? I have many times, serious burns and raised blisters !! Once my kids touched it by accident, that was the end of bare metal.. If covered with cushions then you should be good.

 

[Sea Antsy]

Yea.. alum does get hot.. and the G kids don't like it.. sooo..
Duranautic alum seat replaced with AZK plastic, added trolling pole holder and vertical holder..under solar panel is ammo can with 2 each 6v emergency exit lamp batteries in series, solar charger direct connect, runs GARMIN FISH FINDER/GPS and bilge pump

 

[thill]

I used Azek paneling, rounded the edges and wrapped in real marine carpet, and it's very comfortable, and durable and cleans up easily. Had mine for years before selling, and it still looked great. New buyer still very happy with it. Cheap carpet is a pain and doesn't cost much less, so get the real stuff.