How to Replace a Worn-Out Snap in 3 Simple Steps

Having trouble with a snap that won’t stay closed? Snap fasteners are widely used on marine applications like boat covers, dodgers and tarps because they are strong and easy to use. However, these high-traffic snaps can lose their tenacity over time. It’s a common problem and one that you can easily and affordably fix yourself.

What causes snaps to stop holding? Here’s a little snap anatomy. The stud (bottom) of a snap is often secured into a hard surface, like the side of a boat. It holds the socket (top), which is riveted to the underside of the button cap. Inside the socket is a tight wire spring that expands and contracts around the stud as it is pressed on and pulled off. Eventually, the spring loses its strength, causing the fastener to fail.

Snap Replacement in 3 Simple Steps

1. Determine the size and type of the existing snaps.

There are two main types of sockets: Normal- and hard-action sockets and Pull-the-DOT® (one-way) sockets. Most fasteners come in two materials: either nickel-plated brass or stainless steel.

Nickel-plated brass and stainless steel will look alike at first glance. The best way to tell the difference is to remove the socket and cut it in half with tin snips. Nickel-plated brass fasteners are visibly brass in color on the inside. Do not mix nickel-plated brass and stainless steel fastener parts.

If using a nickel-plated socket, select between hard-action and normal-action snap strength. Hard-action sockets require extra force to pull apart, while normal-action sockets need only a regular amount of force. Use hard-action sockets for applications that need an extra-strong hold.

Pull-the-DOT fasteners only open from one direction. You can tell if you have a Pull-the-DOT by looking at the socket for a ramped inside edge (looks like a protrusion). If you are still unsure, look on the embossed cap for the Pull-the-DOT name.

If you are unsure what size cap you need, take a measurement. Sailrite carries snap fasteners that are the standard size for marine applications with a 5/8" diameter cap.

2. Remove the old socket.

Remove the old socket by drilling off the rivet. Use a 3/16" drill bit (or another size, as long as it is bigger than the rivet) and drill from the rolled side of the rivet. It doesn’t take much drilling for the button and socket to separate.

3. Install the new socket.

Use a snap fastener installation tool to install the new socket. All you need is a basic installation tool to do a few snaps. If replacing a large number of sockets or fasteners, you might want to invest in the Pres-N-Snap® Installation Tool, which is a professional installation tool that punches the hole and installs the fastener in one step. Another professional option is the Sailrite® SnapRite® System. This complete kit has everything you need to install a variety of snaps with more ease and efficiency than ever before. Read about these two fastener installation systems in our blog "Comparing the Sailrite® SnapRite® System & Pres-N-Snap® Installation Tool."