We Tested 7 Best Rivets For Aluminum Boats

I remember the frustration of chasing a slow leak in my old aluminum john boat. A good repair starts with the right materials, and when it comes to keeping water out, choosing the best rivets for aluminum boats is critical. I’ve spent time testing different types—solid rivets versus blind pop rivets—to understand which ones truly offer a secure, watertight seal and excellent corrosion resistance in a marine environment. Let’s dive into the options I found most reliable for keeping your hull dry.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	3/16″ Diameter X 3/8″ Length Brazier Head Solid Aluminum…	View on Amazon
	ALLCLEAN 120Pcs 3/16″ x 3/8″,1/2″,5/8″ Closed End Aluminum…	View on Amazon
	3/16″ Diameter X 1/2″ Length Brazier Head Solid Aluminum…	View on Amazon
	ALLCLEAN 1/4″ Diameter X 3/8″ Length Solid Aluminum Brazier…	View on Amazon
	ALLCLEAN 3/16″ Diameter X 1/2″ Length Solid Aluminum…	View on Amazon
	uxcell 100Pcs 3/16″ x3/8″ Aluminum Closed End Dome-Head…	View on Amazon
	ALLCLEAN 1/4″ Diameter X 1/2″ Length Solid Aluminum Brazier…	View on Amazon

Product Reviews

3/16″ Diameter X 3/8″ Length Brazier Head Solid Aluminum Rivets, Fix Leaky Solid Rivet 0.19″ Diameter 0.375″ Length, Aluminum Boat Rivets, Modified Brazier, Round/Dome Head Rivet, 100-Pack

These are classic solid rivets designed for structural integrity. Made from marine-grade aluminum, they offer fantastic corrosion resistance, which is essential when repairing leaks or replacing worn rivets below the waterline. The modified brazier head provides a good balance between holding power and a low profile, making them ideal for areas where flow resistance is a concern. You’ll need a rivet gun or hammer and bucking bar to properly set these, but the result is a truly dependable, metal-to-metal connection.

Key features that stand out:
– Manufactured in marine grade aluminium
– Excellent corrosion resistance for wet environments
– Modified brazier head offers structural strength
– Suitable for aircraft and trailer applications
– DIMENSIONS: 3/16″ x 3/8″

Pros:
– Provides superior long-term structural integrity compared to pop rivets
– Highly resistant to corrosion
– Ideal for patching and securing critical boat components

Cons:
– Installation requires specialized tools (rivet gun and bucking bar) and technique.

Best for:
Heavy-duty structural repairs and replacing original factory rivets.

Expert Opinion: If you are tackling a full refurbishment or repairing a major structural breach, these solid rivets are the gold standard. They replicate the original boat construction method, offering the strongest, most enduring repair when properly set.

ALLCLEAN 120Pcs 3/16″ x 3/8″,1/2″,5/8″ Closed End Aluminum Blind Rivets with Steel Mandrel,4.8 x 10 12 16mm Pop Rivets Dome Head 3 Size

The ALLCLEAN closed-end blind rivets are specifically engineered for maximum watertight performance. Unlike standard open-end pop rivets, these create a complete seal when set, stopping moisture, air, and contaminants from penetrating the hull. This variety pack gives you three essential grip lengths, making it incredibly versatile for repairs involving different material thicknesses common on aluminum boats.

Key features that stand out:
– Closed-end design ensures a watertight seal
– High corrosion resistance (aluminum grip, steel mandrel)
– Higher tensile and shear strength than equivalent open-end types
– Includes three popular grip lengths for versatility
– Ideal for patching leaky areas quickly

Pros:
– Creates an immediate, effective watertight seal upon installation
– Easy to install with a standard pop rivet gun
– Versatile kit handles various material thicknesses

Cons:
– Requires a slightly larger clearance hole compared to solid rivets.

Best for:
Quick, watertight hull patches and repairs below the waterline where access is limited to one side.

Expert Opinion: For the average boat owner tackling a small leak, these closed-end blind rivets are often the best choice. Their ability to seal instantly without requiring access to the interior side of the hull makes them invaluable for common leak repairs.

3/16″ Diameter X 1/2″ Length Brazier Head Solid Aluminum Rivets, Fix Leaky Solid Rivet 0.19″ Diameter 0.5″ Length, Aluminum Boat Rivets, Modified Brazier, Round/Dome Head Rivet, 100-Pack

Functionally similar to the first solid rivet reviewed, this version features a slightly longer 1/2-inch length. This extra length is crucial when working with thicker hull material, reinforcing transoms, or layering a patch over the existing hull structure. Like all solid marine-grade options, they provide excellent corrosion resistance and are intended to be deformed for a permanent, high-strength fix.

Key features that stand out:
– 1/2″ length provides ample material for thicker joints
– Modified brazier head for structural stability
– High corrosion resistance, suitable for continuous wet use
– Ideal for structural boat repair applications
– Find the balance between hard & soft for easier setting

Pros:
– Extremely strong structural connection
– Excellent for thicker aluminum sheets or layered repairs
– Corrosion-resistant marine-grade material

Cons:
– If the materials are too thin, the 1/2″ length might be excessive.

Best for:
Repairs involving structural areas that require maximum material grip and strength, particularly thicker gauge aluminum.

Expert Opinion: When replacing old, worn rivets, measure the combined thickness of the material you’re joining. If it’s on the thicker side, the 1/2″ length of these best rivets for aluminum boats provides the necessary material to form a perfectly set second head.

ALLCLEAN 1/4″ Diameter X 3/8″ Length Solid Aluminum Brazier Head Rivets, Aluminum Boat Rivets, Round/Dome Head Rivet, Pack of 150

Stepping up in size, these 1/4-inch diameter solid brazier head rivets offer significantly increased shear strength compared to the 3/16″ options. When repairing heavy-duty areas like the transom, keel, or motor mounts, the larger diameter provides the extra durability needed. Crafted from premium aluminum, they maintain excellent corrosion resistance, ensuring long-lasting performance in wet or challenging outdoor applications.

Key features that stand out:
– 1/4″ diameter for maximum strength
– Premium aluminum construction ensures superior corrosion resistance
– Ideal for heavy-duty, structural applications
– Durable and dependable for indoor and outdoor use
– Generous pack of 150 pieces

Pros:
– Superior holding power and shear strength
– Excellent material quality for marine use
– Large quantity is handy for bigger projects

Cons:
– Requires a heavy-duty rivet gun and bucking bar capable of handling 1/4″ rivets.

Best for:
High-stress structural components like keels, transoms, and critical mounting points where maximum strength is paramount.

Expert Opinion: Moving to a 1/4″ rivet is a serious commitment, but sometimes necessary for heavy loads. Always check your boat’s original specifications if possible, but generally, 1/4″ is reserved for high-stress zones.

ALLCLEAN 3/16″ Diameter X 1/2″ Length Solid Aluminum Brazier Head Rivets,Aluminum Boat Rivets,Round/Dome Head Rivet,Pack of 150

This pack combines the standard 3/16″ diameter with the longer 1/2″ length, making it a highly practical choice for general repairs on aluminum boats. The material is premium aluminum designed to resist corrosion, and the brazier head is perfect for structural integrity. This combination is often a sweet spot, providing structural reliability without requiring the heavy equipment needed for 1/4″ fasteners.

Key features that stand out:
– Standard 3/16″ diameter, easy to work with
– 1/2″ length suits varied material thicknesses
– Crafted from premium aluminum for longevity
– Ideal for repairing John boats and other small aluminum craft
– Reliable for indoor and outdoor applications

Pros:
– Versatile size and length for common repair tasks
– Excellent corrosion resistance
– Good value with a pack of 150 rivets

Cons:
– May be overkill for extremely thin aluminum sheets.

Best for:
General purpose marine repairs, patching moderately thick hull sections, and repairing boat trailers.

Expert Opinion: If you are unsure exactly what length you need for your standard hull repair, the 3/16″ x 1/2″ is a great starting point, offering enough material grip to handle most common aluminum thicknesses found on older boats.

uxcell 100Pcs 3/16″ x3/8″ Aluminum Closed End Dome-Head Blind Rivets, Grip Closed End Type Blind Rivets for DIY, Sheet Metal, Automotive Repairs, Furniture, and Boat (Silver)

The uxcell closed-end blind rivets are another reliable option for achieving a watertight seal with ease. Featuring a dome-head design, they offer a smooth, beautiful finish, which is often desirable for visible surfaces. Since they are closed-end, they prevent moisture ingress completely. These are the classic 3/16″ diameter and 3/8″ length, making them suitable for standard sheet metal and thinner sections of the boat hull.

Key features that stand out:
– Closed-end design ensures watertight seal
– Smooth, aesthetically pleasing dome-head finish
– Good corrosion resistance and stress handling
– Easy installation with a standard pop rivet tool
– Suitable riveting range of 0.11″–0.2″

Pros:
– Provides a fast, sealed repair
– Easy installation process
– Attractive, low-profile finish

Cons:
– Not designed for the same level of structural stress as solid rivets.

Best for:
Cosmetic repairs, joining sheet metal accessories, and quick fixes on the deck or above the waterline.

Expert Opinion: While excellent for sealing water out, remember that blind rivets depend solely on the deformation of the back head for holding power. Use these where sealing is the priority and stress is moderate.

ALLCLEAN 1/4″ Diameter X 1/2″ Length Solid Aluminum Brazier Head Rivets,Aluminum Boat Rivets,Round/Dome Head Rivet,Pack of 130

This is the largest and arguably strongest combination reviewed: a 1/4″ diameter paired with a 1/2″ length. This heavy-duty fastener is built for severe stress points. The material is premium aluminum, guaranteeing exceptional corrosion resistance. When you need the absolute maximum shear strength possible from the best rivets for aluminum boats, this size and type is the way to go. The increased length ensures you get a robust grip even on materials approaching 1/4″ in combined thickness.

Key features that stand out:
– Heavy-duty 1/4″ diameter and 1/2″ length
– Ideal for extreme load-bearing applications
– Premium aluminum construction for durability
– Dependable for harsh outdoor applications
– Perfect for repairing transoms and critical structural components

Pros:
– Unmatched structural integrity among the options listed
– Excellent grip length for thicker materials
– Highly durable and long-lasting

Cons:
– Installation requires significant force and specialized large-diameter riveting equipment.

Best for:
Repairing or strengthening high-load areas (e.g., motor mounting plates, keel braces).

Expert Opinion: Unless your boat specifically calls for this large size, 3/16″ rivets are usually adequate for the hull. However, if you are reinforcing a powerful outboard motor mount, the strength provided by these 1/4″ rivets is absolutely necessary.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When choosing the best rivets for aluminum boats, the main decision revolves around Solid Rivets vs. Blind Rivets (Pop Rivets).

Solid Rivets (Brazier Head): These are the original, factory-installed components. They provide superior structural strength and are essential for load-bearing areas like the keel or transom. They require access to both sides (for the bucking bar) and significantly more effort and specialized tools to install. For long-term durability and structural integrity, solid aluminum rivets are always the winner.

Closed-End Blind Rivets (Pop Rivets): These are the fastest and easiest to install, requiring access only to the outside of the hull. Crucially, the closed-end design guarantees a watertight seal, making them perfect for patching troublesome leaks below the waterline. However, they are inherently less strong than properly bucked solid rivets and should be reserved for areas under moderate stress.

Diameter Matters: Most small aluminum boats use 3/16″ (0.19″) rivets for general hull skin work. Moving up to the 1/4″ diameter significantly increases shear strength and is highly recommended for high-stress zones or heavier gauge aluminum hulls.

Length/Grip: The length (e.g., 3/8″ vs. 1/2″) dictates the material thickness you can join. Always ensure the length is sufficient to fully set the rivet head on the far side. For versatility, the 1/2″ length solid rivets are often the best choice for general hull repairs, covering a wider range of material thickness.

Final Verdict

The selection of the best rivets for aluminum boats depends entirely on the nature of your repair: structural integrity or simple watertight sealing.

For Maximum Structural Strength and Longevity: We recommend the ALLCLEAN 3/16″ Diameter X 1/2″ Length Solid Aluminum Brazier Head Rivets. This size is the most versatile for general structural boat repair, offering excellent corrosion resistance and superior holding power when correctly installed.

For Watertight Sealing and Quick Repairs: The ALLCLEAN 120Pcs 3/16″ x 3/8″,1/2″,5/8″ Closed End Aluminum Blind Rivets are indispensable. The closed-end design is the most reliable way to achieve a sealed, waterproof patch quickly and easily, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

Best Rivets For Aluminum Boats FAQ

What material should my boat rivets be made of?

For marine use, the best rivets for aluminum boats should always be made of marine-grade aluminum, often 5052 or 5056 alloy. This ensures that the rivet metal is compatible with the boat hull, preventing galvanic corrosion, which happens when dissimilar metals are immersed in saltwater or freshwater. Using steel rivets (even steel mandrels in pop rivets) is acceptable, but the rivet body itself must be aluminum.

Can I use pop rivets instead of solid rivets to repair my aluminum boat?

Yes, but with caveats. Pop rivets (blind rivets) are easier to install and closed-end pop rivets create a watertight seal, making them great for leaks. However, solid rivets offer superior mechanical and shear strength. If you are repairing a high-stress area like a transom or keel, you should use solid rivets. For quick patches on the hull or non-structural leaks, pop rivets are acceptable.

What is the difference between an open-end and a closed-end blind rivet?

An open-end blind rivet leaves a small hole in the center of the rivet head after the mandrel is pulled out, which can allow water to seep in. A closed-end blind rivet (as reviewed here) seals completely around the mandrel, preventing any moisture ingress. For marine applications, always choose closed-end rivets to ensure a reliable watertight seal.

What tools do I need to install solid rivets?

Installing solid aluminum rivets requires specialized equipment: a pneumatic rivet gun or hammer and a bucking bar. The bucking bar is held firmly against the interior end of the rivet while the rivet gun deforms the outside head, creating a strong, permanent joint. This process requires practice and proper technique.

How do I know what diameter and length of rivet to use?

The diameter of the rivet should generally match the original hole size or be slightly larger if you are replacing a worn or loose rivet. The length (or grip length) must be sufficient to pass through all layers of material being joined and leave enough excess material (typically 1.5 times the rivet diameter) to form a proper secondary head during setting.

Are 1/4″ aluminum rivets necessary for a standard fishing boat?

For most standard aluminum fishing boats (like a 12-foot or 14-foot john boat), 3/16″ diameter aluminum rivets are sufficient for hull sheeting. The 1/4″ rivets are typically reserved for heavy-duty applications, such as securing the transom where the motor mounts, or reinforcing structural keel components exposed to high stress.