I've found a nice looking boat but it has some damage to the carpet on the rear deck which will require the carpet to be replaced, if the wood beneath that carpet is in good shape still should the damaged carpet be a deal breaker? Obviously one of my first questions will be how did the carpet get damaged to begin with but assuming that is all that's wrong with the boat should i pass it bye or seriously entertain buying it?

Tough to say for sure but visible damage (otherwise known as Neglect) is often only a small percentage compared to what may be "Unseen".

http://www.bassresource.com/bass-fishing-forums/search/?&q=carpet&type=forums_topic&search_in=titles

A-Jay

With the age boat you've been looking at, it won't be uncommon at all for the carpet to be worn. Years of being walked on and out in the elements will wear even the best carpets out. Other things that can wear it out are hooks getting caught in it, or some sort of sharp object slicing it. Glue can also release and create a loose spot which is more likely to get damaged. If you're willing to pay the price to replace it, or have it done, it's not a deal breaker, but look things over well to make sure there aren't other issues. 

The worst part is removing the old glue and being careful not to get the new glue where you don't want it.

On ‎4‎/‎13‎/‎2016 at 11:31 AM, A-Jay said:

Tough to say for sure but visible damage (otherwise known as Neglect) is often only a small percentage compared to what may be "Unseen".

http://www.bassresource.com/bass-fishing-forums/search/?&q=carpet&type=forums_topic&search_in=titles

A-Jay

Or well used

I don't know how the boat is laid out, but re carpeting a bass boat isnt easy work. Working around all the compartments and corners is not easy. One wrong cut and its over. Mine is peeling up and rotting out on a 96 ranger, it needs to be replaced. Twice a year I am spraying new adhesive in places the carpet is peeling up. I asked a few places what it would cost for medium marine carpet (not high end, not cheap astro turf) and they said about $500 for the carpet and $500 labor for tearing old out and putting new down. 

you should buy it and be done.

 

Buy it, tear out the old carpet and replace with Rhino LIner, go fishing and never worry about carpet again. 

Better use the color match stuff and get the lightest color you can find! The black is going to cook you in your boat. 

I have two boats.  In one boat the carpet is light gray, the other is black.  When it's hot, it's hot.  Carpet color doesn't make it any better or worse.  Black alumininum or gel coat? That will burn your hand.  Both boats have that.