IBEX 365 News

2021 IBEX Innovation Award Interview with Gibco Flex-Mold

News Date: March 7, 2022

Re-Deck

Re-Deck by Gibco Flex-Mold is a polyester, resin-based customized permanent non-skid replacement solution. It’s available in 1’x1’ and 4’ x 12’ sheets in a copyrighted, UL-listed series of 100 patterns. Re-Deck is applied by using either pressure-sensitive adhesive or it can be epoxied for a true bond-to-deck surface.

What problem does this product solve?
Re-Deck is a permanent professional non-skid replacement for new or pre-owned boats. It may be used in large and small repair applications and is also perfect for prototypes.

How did you become aware of this problem?
Flex-Mold has over 30 years of marine industry experience which has made us aware of the need for an easy-to-use, sustainable, professional non-skid option for boat builders, repair facilities, and DIYers,” says J.B. Currell, owner of Gibco Flex-Mold.

What audience is this product designed to reach?
Repair facilities and boat manufacturers as well as DIY boaters can use this product in new build or aftermarket applications.

What is noteworthy about the technology used?
Re-Deck is easily applied, it can be color-matched and it’s a permanent solution. It’s approximately 1/16th to 1/18th of an inch thick and can be cut with shears or on a CNC machine. Re-Deck matches the original non-skid pattern and may be applied with pressure-sensitive adhesive or epoxy.

How is it different from any other solution on the market?
Re-Deck is not a sand-filled paint or a foam. It’s a permanent polyester solution. This material has the same properties as a molded non-skid and is more durable than EVA foam non-skid.

What obstacles did you encounter in the R&D process?
“Figuring out how to design a resin system that was flexible yet hard enough to match the gelcoat surface of a boat was key,” adds Currell. “It’s both a chemistry and manufacturing issue.”

What customizations can be enabled to personalize this product?
Re-Deck is currently available in Oyster White, White, and Pigeon Blue. Custom colors are available upon request for an additional charge. You can color match by spraying with the desired gelcoat or paint. Customized repeatable patterns are also available upon request.

How has the product been received?
“Re-Deck has been received extremely well,” says Currell. “It has performed well beyond our expectations. Repair facilities that have been using Re-Deck say it is a game-changer!”

Is there anything else we should know or that you’d like to share?
The peel-and-stick adhesive version isn’t technically permanent. This solution is only permanent when adhered using epoxy resin.

For more information about the 2021 IBEX Innovation Award winners, click here.