EPDM Rubber Strip – 60 x 2 mm, Black (Reinforcement Strip for Keel and Hull)

The 60 x 2 mm EPDM strip is a versatile solution for protecting and reinforcing critical areas of your boat. It’s commonly used as a keel guard strip on inflatable boats and RIBs, as well as for covering long seams or edges that are exposed to constant friction or impact. Made of the same premium EPDM rubber as larger rub rails, it carries all the benefits – exceptional environmental resistance and flexibility.

Primary uses:

• Keel protection: On inflatable boats, the keel section (especially if it’s inflatable or fabric-covered) takes a lot of abuse when dragging over sand or gravel. By bonding an EPDM strip along the entire length of the keel, you add an extra sacrificial layer that takes the scratches instead of the original material. This helps prevent wear-through that could otherwise lead to leaks.
• Reinforcing seams and joints: Along the seams between a RIB’s tube and hull, or around the transom edges, this strip can act as a “reinforcement tape.” It covers and seals joints, helps prevent delamination, and simultaneously shields them from external stress (for example, from the outboard motor or oars that might rub).
• Guarding gunwales: For hard hulls (fiberglass), the EPDM strip can serve as a temporary or permanent rub strip along the gunwale. Although flat, the 60 mm width provides a buffer zone that absorbs minor impacts or chafing from ropes and fenders. Since the strip is thin (2 mm), it’s barely noticeable visually but effectively acts as an “invisible” guard.

Durability and installation: The EPDM material is highly resistant to saltwater, chemicals, and UV – it won’t harden or degrade over time. This means even if the strip is constantly submerged or in the sun, it will remain flexible and intact for years. Its operating temperature range (from deep cold to high heat) ensures it won’t peel off or crack even during winter storage or intense summer heat. Installation requires cleaning and prepping the target surface, applying a suitable adhesive (e.g., a 2-part polyurethane glue for PVC/Hypalon or marine epoxy for fiberglass), and firmly pressing the strip along the length. Thanks to its slim profile, it adheres without bubbles or wrinkles. For bends, it can be gently warmed to ease it around curves.

Why choose an EPDM strip:

• Handles heavy use: The EPDM strip is designed to endure continuous friction – for instance, a boat that is frequently beached will not wear through its keel if that keel is protected by this strip.
• Saves on repairs: Instead of regularly patching and fixing worn spots, you invest upfront in prevention. The cost of one roll of strip is far less than potential repairs for punctures or opened seams.
• DIY-friendly: Application doesn’t require special tools – with basic skills, any boat owner can cut and glue the strip exactly where needed. The result looks neat, and functionally – you immediately gain an extra armor layer.
• Multi-purpose: Beyond boats, this EPDM strip can be used in other marine settings – lining the edges of docks or platforms (so they won’t scrape boats), as a gasket between structures, or even on a trailer bunks where the boat rests to avoid scuffing the hull’s finish.

In summary, the 60x2 mm EPDM rubber strip is a small investment that yields a big return by keeping your boat robust and protected. It works “behind the scenes,” invisibly taking the hits and stresses so you can enjoy boating without worrying about damage.