Do you want to attach accessories to your kayak ? Attaching screws to the kayak body might be what you need. However, this process requires steady hands and appropriate tools. Any little mistake will lead to a bad leakage. You must match the type of drill you use to the screws available. A silicon sealant will be the best to cover the screws completely.
A kayak spends most of the time in water; hence stainless screws will be appropriate. This type of screw is resistant to corrosion. Also, ensure the screws have a locking nut to prevent them from loosening. Moreover, deciding the position of the screws is an essential factor. This helps to ensure the screws don’t affect the balance of the kayak.
The procedure below will help you to screw into a plastic kayak
Equipment you will Need
- A drill and drill bit
- Stainless screws
- A marker pen
- The accessory you want to attach to the kayak
- Screwdriver
- Silicon seal
7 Steps to Screw into a Plastic Kayak
Step 1. Find the appropriate position to attach the accessory to your kayak. Professionals recommend attaching the accessory to the back of the kayak. Please consider the balance of the whole kayak first.
Step 2. Use the marker pen to mark the position of the first hole. Creating a mark will help you to handle the drill on the plastic.
Step 3. Fit the appropriate drill bit in the drill. The drill bit will depend on the size of the screws. A wrong drill bit can easily create a crack when screwing into the plastic.
Step 4. Now drill the first hole. Firmly hold the drill to prevent it from moving around. Also, ensure the hole does not go too deep into the plastic.
Step 5. Then take your accessory and set it on the first hole. Mark the remaining holes with the marker pen. Ensure you are satisfied with the positioning of the accessory. The remaining holes must go in hand with the accessory.
Step 6. Drill the rest of the holes. Always maintain a steady hand and firmly hold the drill on the kayak plastic. Do not sweep away the drill shavings as they will help you seal the drilled holes.
Step 7. Time to attach the accessory to the kayak. Dip the screws in a waterproof silicone sealant and use a screwdriver to lock up the screws. The silicon sealant will fill the space as the threads turn into the hole. Remember to smear some of the silicon sealants on the head of the screw to reinforce the seal.
9 Types of Screws for a Plastic Kayak
1. Self-tapping screws
Research shows that self-tapping screws are the best for a plastic kayak because they create their holes. You do not have to pre-drill the holes on the kayak. However, these screws can easily snap when tightening and will create a leakage when they get old.
2. Sheet metal screws
These are the best screws when attaching a heavy accessory to the plastic kayak. They also come in different sizes and materials. Furthermore, this type of screw contains stainless steel that prevents rust. The type of threads will ensure a strong bond with the plastic. The downside is that these screws can be expensive.
3. MDF screws
While constructing bookshelves, you will always see these screws, but they can also work on plastic kayaks. They are strong types of screws that can hold solid and heavy kayak accessories. They also come in stainless steel hence protecting them from corrosion. They have star-drive heads that are easy to screw into the plastic.
4. Decking screws
These screws are always found on the floor of your deck. Nevertheless, they can also work on a plastic kayak with the same strength as on the deck. Of course, they are outdoors screws designed to resist corrosion and rust. In addition, these screws can be self-tapping, but it is best to at least drill a hole in the kayak.
5. Masonry screws
They are made to hold concrete to other materials like plastic and wood. This is why they are best for attaching heavy accessories to your plastic kayak. Moreover, they are unique types of screws because they don’t have a pointed end. With these screws, you must pre-drill the plastic surface using a sharp drill bit.
6. Wood screws
As the name suggests, they are good screws for wood. They are still good when attaching a wooden accessory to your plastic kayak. They come in bronze or steel. But steel is the best when working with a plastic kayak. Pre-drill the surface to protect the plastic from cracking. And slowly screw into the surface with a screwdriver.
7. Drywall screws
Yes, this type of screw can also work on the plastic kayak. Experts recommend it because it comes with different types of threads. It can be coarsely threaded, which is best for heavy accessories. Or W-threaded that can hold sliding materials. They have very sharp points that will help you while screwing into the plastic.
8. Chipboard screws
Many people call them twin-fast screws. They are good on chipboard hence recommended when attaching chipboard to the plastic kayak. In addition, they are also self-tapping, and you can use an ordinary drill bit to drive them into the plastic. The screw heads are perfect for preventing you from splitting the board.
9. Tamper-proof screws
The common name is security screws because of the extraordinary head that does not allow all screwdrivers. You will require a special tool to remove or attach the screws to the surface. It is the best type of screw when attaching a toolbox to your kayak. However, these screws are not fully secure; as a result, you have to add more security features.
Wrapping up
How to screw into a plastic kayak is easy, but you must have steady hands. It is best to be extra careful when handling this type of work. Always consider the type of screw you are using to avoid simple future problems. Make sure you use a sealant, and your plastic kayak will have a longer useful life.