HOW TO INSTALL GATORSTEP

Important Safety Information

Before beginning installation, always follow all safety instructions related to the tools and chemicals used.

Receiving and Pre-Installation

  • When your GatorStep arrives, it will be securely packaged in a box with all components sealed inside a transparent plastic bag.
  • Upon receiving the shipment, immediately remove the material from the box and lay it flat in an air-conditioned space or fully shaded area.
  • Do not leave the material boxed, as this can cause foam compression, which may lead to fitment issues during installation.
  • Never expose the bagged GatorStep to direct sunlight. Excessive heat while in the bag can damage the material.
  • If you need to store your GatorStep prior to installation, please make sure that the storage location temperature is 60-80° F and humidity is between 40-60%. The shelf life of the adhesive is 18mo.
  • Before installation, perform a full parts audit by matching each piece to the parts map included in the clear bag to ensure everything is present.

Tools and Installation Conditions

Tools & Materials Checklist:

  • Large Carpet Roller
  • Small Carpet Roller
  • 100% Terry Cloth Towels
  • Microfiber Towels
  • Chemical Bucket Garbage Bags
  • Blue Painter's Tape
  • #11 Hobby Knife or Thumb Tack
  • Acetone or lsopropyl Alcohol(99%)
  • 3M Primer 94
  • Measuring Tape
  • The ideal temperature for installation is between 60° F and 90° F. Humidity should be below 65%.
  • Avoid installing in direct sunlight or immediately after rainstorms, as humidity can interfere with adhesion.
  • Set up portable fans to increase airflow and keep the surface cool, which helps reduce humidity and improve installation quality.

Surface Preparation

  • Pre-Installation Preparation (24 Hours Prior): Wash the installation area thoroughly using marine safe soap, gel wash, or comparable products. Allow a minimum of 24 hours to dry completely, as hidden moisture can compromise adhesion.
  • Surface Cleaning: Once the area is fully dry, prep the surface using either Acetone or lsopropyl Alcohol.
    • Use lsopropyl Alcohol if: The surface is clean, smooth, and in good condition, or the area is painted. Do not use on vinyl, stainless steel, or other sensitive finishes.
    • Use Acetone if: The surface is older, chalky, or heavily stained, the area has not been detailed recently, or you suspect the surface was previously ceramic coated. Acetone is essential to break down ceramic coatings and ensure strong adhesion. Do not use Acetone on painted areas, PVC plastics, starboard, coolers, or vinyl, as it can damage or strip these surfaces.
  • Use only 100% terry cloth towels with your chosen chemical to avoid residue from dyes. Soak a towel, wring it out, and wipe the surface from stern to bow.
  • Glue Residue Warning: Any glue residue from a previous flooring installation must be fully removed, as it will compromise adhesion and lead to product failure.

The GatorStep warranty will be void if product failure results from improper surface prep or failure to remove old adhesives.

3m Primer 94 Adhesion Promoter

  • Complete coverage of Primer 94 is recommended for challenging surfaces like plastics, coolers, and starboard.
  • Perimeter coverage of Primer 94 is recommended for aggressive non-skid textures.
  • Apply a thin, even coat and allow it to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once dry, apply the GatorStep directly. This creates an immediate bond, and repositioning will not be possible after contact.

Installation Process

  • Organize all GatorStep material on your project according to the parts map and lay the pieces in their general positions without peeling any adhesive.
  • Begin installation in area with the most pieces. In boats, start in the aft (rear) section or the main body, as starting in the bow can lead to misalignment.
  • Dry fit the first piece to verify fit and alignment. Once satisfied, flip it over and peel back the PSA wax paper about 1/4 to 1/2 of the way. Lightly tap the exposed adhesive area into place, then verify the rest of the part aligns properly before slowly peeling off the remaining wax paper and pressing the piece down. Pulling the material will cause stretching and potential fitment issues. Some stretching and material manipulation is normal to achieve desired fitment.
  • Press around the edges firmly with your hands to temporarily set the part. Do not use a roller until all parts have been installed.
  • Maintain even gaps between parts or as the design intended. Use blue painter's tape to secure adjacent pieces during a dry fit to prevent movement and check alignment.
  • Work methodically from one part to the next; never skip around or have separate people installing from opposite ends.
  • Water Intrusion: If water appears in an area where you are working, immediately lift the material, dry the surface completely with a clean microfiber towel.

Final Steps and Curing

  • After all pieces are installed, use your small roller to apply firm pressure along all edges, holes, and interior cut features of each part.
  • Then, use the large roller to roll the full surface of each part with the grain of the material to ensure even compression.
  • Dealing with Bubbles: If a bubble forms, do not try to force it down with the roller. Instead, use a sharp #11 hobby knife or thumb tack to puncture it vertically, aligned with the grain direction. Gently press the air out by hand and then use the roller to reseal the area.
  • The adhesive requires 48 to 72 hours to fully bond to the surface depending on the ambient temperature. Avoid moisture and submersion until after the bonding period.
  • Bubbles can continue to form for up to two weeks after installation, so stay vigilant and address any issues as they arise. For stubborn bubbles, use the "heel trick" by standing on the bubble for about one minute to apply body weight, which helps the pressure-sensitive adhesive bond fully.

Proper Care and Maintenance

  • GatorStep has a non-porous surface, so dirt, debris, or other messes will sit on top rather than soaking in. If there is a spill, it is best to clean before it dries.
  • For daily cleaning, use marine-safe products like Hula, Boat Juice, or Deck Sauce, or Dawn dish soap, water, and a soft to medium-bristle brush. Be sure to rinse well after cleaning to remove any excess soap.
  • Never use bleach or bleach-based cleaners, as they can discolor the material, dry it out, and void your warranty.
  • For tough contaminants like oil or fuel, use a marine-safe degreaser or WD-40 followed by soap and water.
  • To help repel dirt and UV exposure, wash with gel washes that contain SiO2 (ceramic).
  • Cover your GatorStep when not in use to protect your investment and maximize the lifespan of your flooring.

Now that your GatorStep is expertly installed and you know how to take care of it, it is time to get out and enjoy it!

*A downloadable PDF of these instructions can be accessed HERE