The Best Plastic Materials for Boatbuilders
Boatbuilders have long relied on traditional materials like wood, aluminum and steel. While these materials have served the industry well, they come with inherent challenges—wood rots, metal corrodes, and both require ongoing maintenance. As a result, the marine industry has increasingly turned to advanced plastics for their durability, low maintenance, and resistance to harsh marine environments. Among these advanced materials, the King StarBoard® family of products has set the standard for marine-grade high-density polyethylene (HDPE). With over 35 years of innovation and expertise, King StarBoard® is the trusted choice for boat manufacturers, fabricators and marine professionals.
Why Choose King StarBoard® Over Traditional Materials?
King StarBoard® and its family of products provide numerous advantages over conventional boat building materials. These benefits include:
- Unmatched Durability – Unlike wood and metal, King StarBoard® will not rust, delaminate, or rot when exposed to UV, moisture, or saltwater.
- Low Maintenance – The polymer sheets never require painting, sealing, or refinishing, reducing the time and costs associated with upkeep.
- Ease of Fabrication – Works like wood and can be machined with standard woodworking tools.
- Lightweight Options – Variants like King StarBoard® XL and King StarLite® XL offer up to 35% weight reduction compared to the original King StarBoard®, improving fuel efficiency and ease of handling.
- Specialized Performance – Products like King StarBoard® AS provide anti-skid surfaces for high-traffic areas, improving safety on board.
The King StarBoard® Family of Products
King Plastic Corporation offers a full range of marine-grade HDPE sheets, each engineered to meet specific boat-building needs.
1. King StarBoard® – The Original Marine-Grade HDPE
King StarBoard® is the industry’s leading marine-grade HDPE sheet. Manufactured using the proprietary K-Stran™ process, it offers superior flatness and consistency, making it the go-to material for a variety of marine applications, including, but not limited to:
- Frames and Trim
- Hatches and Doors
- Rod and Cup Holders
- Steps and Dock Boxes
Its matte finish on both sides provides an attractive appearance, while its environmental stabilization ensures resistance to harsh marine conditions.
2. King StarBoard® AS – Anti-Skid for High-Traffic Areas
Designed for decking, swim platforms and ladder steps. King StarBoard® AS features a high-friction dot or diamond pattern on one side and a matte finish on the other. This anti-skid surface enhances safety by reducing the risk of slipping while also promoting drainage.
3. King StarBoard® XL – Lightweight Marine-Grade HDPE
For applications where weight is a concern, King StarBoard® XL is up to 30% lighter than standard King StarBoard®. While maintaining the same durability and resistance to the elements, it is ideal for:
- Cockpit Covers
- Deck Component and Equipment Mounts
- Tackle Centers
4. King StarLite® XL – The Lightweight, Cost-Effective Solution
As an economical alternative, King StarLite® XL is a closed-cell utility sheet made from high-grade recycled King StarBoard® HDPE. Up to 35% lighter than the original King StarBoard®, it is best suited for:
- Boat Components
- Upholstery substrates
- Behind-the-scenes applications
The Future of Boat Building with King StarBoard®
As the marine industry evolves, boat manufacturers seek materials that offer durability, efficiency and long-term value. The King StarBoard® family of products is a proven, high-performance alternative to traditional materials, helping professionals build stronger and more reliable vessels.
Whether for structural components, anti-skid decking, or lightweight applications, King StarBoard® family of products deliver the best combination of performance, longevity, and ease of fabrication—making them the industry standard.
King Plastic Corporation pioneered the first marine-grade polymer sheet, empowering boat builders with premium materials to create exceptional boats and yachts. With over 35 years of innovation, trusted globally, King StarBoard® continues to lead the way in boat construction excellence.
Looking for King StarBoard® Family of Products?
King Plastic Corporation partners with a global network of top plastics distributors to provide easy access to King StarBoard® products. Contact your local authorized distributor to learn more about how King StarBoard® family of products can improve your next boat-building project.
