How to keep your pontoon in good condition
A pontoon is a lightweight, durable boat, consisting of a pair of tubular components (called pontoons) and a wide, flat decking area. It is often favoured by those looking for a robust, economical watercraft. Whilst this type of boat is relatively low-maintenance, it does need some upkeep in order to perform efficiently and remain seaworthy. Here are two things you can do to keep your pontoon in good condition.
Check for leaks regularly
Whilst pontoons are fairly durable, they can sometimes sustain minor damage; it's very easy to hit a log or a rock when you're out on the water or to bump into the pier when you're bringing it in and out of the dock. Even the smallest of leaks can have a detrimental effect on a pontoon's performance. For example, when the (normally airtight) chambers are damaged, water can gradually accumulate inside them. This can create additional weight which, although it may not actually sink the craft, will place extra pressure on its engine and negatively affect its fuel economy.
As such, it's a good idea to check your boat for holes on a regular basis (ideally, after each outing in it). It's important to note that some damaged areas may not be visually accessible. This is why, in addition to looking for obvious holes in the pontoon, you should keep an eye out for other signs of damage, such as the craft sitting farther below the water's surface than it normally does. If you spot any issues, it's crucial to have them dealt with immediately by a company like Coastal Pontoon & Jetty Repairs that specialises in pontoon repair work.
There are a few things you can do to reduce the chance of a leak occurring. Don't rush when entering and leaving the dock (particularly if there are strong waves), as you'll be more likely to slam into the pier. Additionally, try to be gentle when placing hefty cargo onto the pontoon, and store it securely so that it doesn't fall around and hit the boat's interior when you make sharp turns on the water.
Prevent salt-water damage
Some people use their pontoons exclusively on fresh-water lakes and rivers. However, if you enjoy taking yours out onto the sea or if you store your craft in a coastal location, it's crucial to be aware of the impact that salt water may have on the pontoon. If allowed to dry and crystallise inside the engine block, salt water can cause severe corrosion and, ultimately, engine failure. Moreover, whilst salt water will not usually affect the surface of a boat that's in good condition (as most pontoons are made from rust-resistant aluminium), it will cause corrosion if there are dents or scratches which have removed flakes of the boat's protective coating.
To prevent these problems, you should flush the engine clean each time it is used in the ocean to remove salt deposits and quickly repair any scratches or chips that appear on the boat's surface. Lastly, when storing the boat in a coastal area, always use a mooring cover to prevent salt-water spray from causing damage.