How to Cover a Fiberglass Patio Deck

Covering a fiberglass patio is sometimes necessary to provide more traction. Fiberglass that doesn't have enough texture is slippery when wet. Carpet is an effective solution to providing traction, and it can also complement your outdoor decor. Use exterior-grade carpet that is durable and can withstand the elements. It comes in faux grass styles or replicates the fibers found in indoor carpets. You can easily install outdoor carpet, because it doesn't need to be stretched and tacked down.

Outdoor carpet
Straightedge
Utility knife
Double-sided tape
75-pound roller

Instructions

- 1
  Remove all furniture and accessories from the patio so it is completely empty.
- 2
  Roll the carpet out onto the patio so it loosely covers the area. Determine how to lay the carpet so you only need to make as few cuts as possible.
- 3
  Leave the carpet to rest on the patio for an hour. This allows the carpet to expand slightly as it adjusts to the outdoor temperature.
- 4
  Line up the carpet along the edge by the house. Press a straightedge into the carpet, forcing it against the wall of the house. Cut along the edge using a utility knife, making the cut as straight as possible.
- 5
  Apply heavy-duty, double-sided tape around the perimeter of the patio. Stick more tape under each section of carpet to form an "X."
- 6
  Peel off the paper covering on the tape, and press the carpet down. Work in small sections, peeling about 2 feet of tape at a time.
- 7
  Force the tape and carpet together using a 75-pound roller that you can rent from a home supply store. Use the weight of the roller to create a strong bond between the tape and the carpet.
- 8
  Cut the remaining edges around the patio using a straightedge and utility knife. Apply more tape as needed to the edges.

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