Have you ever wondered how long a pontoon boat will last? Or do you own a pontoon boat? If so, you might want to know how long a pontoon boat lasts.
If you’re planning to buy a pontoon boat, you might want to consider how long it will last. But most pontoon boat manufacturers don’t provide an estimate of how long a pontoon boat will last.
You should know that the lifespan of a pontoon boat is very different from boat to boat and from the type of material it’s made out of. Well, in this post, we’re going to explore the lifespan of pontoon boats.
Here’s The Answer To How Long Do Pontoon Boats Last?
The lifespan of a pontoon boat depends on its age, use, maintenance, conditions, and build quality. Your pontoon boat can last anywhere from 8 to more than 20 years, but some can even last longer. Like any other vehicle, proper care and maintenance can help extend its life.
Pontoon Boat Lifespan Explained:
Pontoon boats are an excellent investment for anyone who loves spending time on the water. Pontoon boats are typically made from abrasion-resistant PVC or fabric aluminum combo, both of which are durable materials.
With proper care and maintenance, your pontoon boat can last for many years. The average lifespan of a pontoon boat is around 20 years, but some can last even longer.
There are a few factors that can have an impact on how long the pontoon boat last, including:
- The material it’s made from
- The quality of the craftsmanship
- How well it’s been maintained
- How often it’s used
If you take good care of your pontoon boat and don’t use it too often, it could last for decades. But if you neglect it or use it very frequently, it might only last a few years. No matter how long your pontoon boat lasts, you’re sure to enjoy many great memories of it.
Average Lifespan of A Pontoon Boat
As with any boat, how long a pontoon boat lasts depends on many factors. But on average, you can expect a pontoon boat to have a lifespan of 10 to 20 years.
One of the most crucial elements in predicting the lifespan of a pontoon boat is how it is used. If you use your pontoon boat in rough water or in the open ocean, it will not last as long as if you use it on a calm lake.
Do Pontoon Boats Last Longer than Other Types?
In rare cases, they might, but it really depends on a lot of factors, such as the type of boat, the tubing, the versatility, and more. The National Marine Manufacturers Association reports that pontoon boats have a lifespan of around 20 years.
However, this can vary depending on how well you take care of it and what kind of environment it’s in. For example, if you keep your pontoon boat in saltwater, it’s going to corrode and age faster than if you keep it in freshwater.
Similarly, if you don’t take care of the exterior, it’s going to age faster. This includes things like dents and scratches. Additionally, pontoon boats are a lot heavier than other types of boats, so they can take a beating.
However, the flip side is that pontoon boats are a great choice for people who want a lightweight boat. They’re also a great choice for people who want a boat that can handle a lot of weight. Additionally, pontoon boats are a great choice for people who want a less hassle and portable boat that can go fast.
Over-Extending the Life of A Pontoon Boat
Yes, you can over-extend the life of a pontoon boat with good maintenance and by taking care of it. Most pontoon boats have a gel coat that needs to be cleaned and waxed regularly. You should also check the hull for any cracks or damage. If you keep your pontoon boat in good condition, it will last longer.
You can also make a pontoon boat last longer by not taking it on long ocean voyages. The saltwater can damage the hull and the foam inside the pontoon boat. If you only use it for short outings, it will last longer.
Pontoon boats are a lot of money, so you want to make sure that you take care of them. With proper maintenance, you can over-extend the life of your pontoon boat and get many years of use out of it.
Here are a few suggestions to help extend the lifespan of your pontoon boat:
- Clean the boat regularly, inside and out
- Wax the boat regularly to protect the finish
- Cover the boat when it’s not in use
- Inspect the boat regularly for any damage or wear and tear
- Repair any damage immediately
- Store the boat in a safe, dry place
Lifespan of A Pontoon Boat and Its Value
This is a question that many boat owners ask, and it is a valid question. A pontoon boat is a big investment, and you want to make sure that you are getting a good deal when you purchase one.
The lifespan of a pontoon boat can have a big effect on its value. If you’re looking at buying a new pontoon boat, the amount of time it will last is an important consideration. On the other hand, if you’re looking at buying a used pontoon boat, the lifespan of the boat is already somewhat known and can be factored into the price.
The monetary value of a pontoon boat can vary depending on a few different factors. The first factor is how well the boat is made. A well-made pontoon boat can last for many years, while a poorly made pontoon boat may only last for a few years and plummet its value.
The second factor is how well the boat is maintained. A pontoon boat that is well-maintained will last longer than one that is not.
The third factor is the weather. If the pontoon boat is used in harsh weather conditions, it will degrade faster and cost more on its maintenance as one that is used in milder conditions.
Pontoon Boat Manufacturers: Boat’s Lifespan
Most pontoon boat manufacturers list the lifespan of their boats at around 20 years. This number, however, will fluctuate depending on how well the boat is maintained and how often it is used. With proper care and maintenance, a pontoon boat can last much longer.
Boat Manufacturers list these factors that can affect the lifespan of a pontoon boat include:
- The quality of the materials used in the construction of the boat
- The quality of the workmanship
- The way the boat is used
- The frequency of use
- The way the boat is stored
- The environment in which the boat is used
How Long Do Pontoon Boats Stay Waterproof?
PVC and fabric pontoon boats are two of the most popular types of pontoon boats. PVC pontoon boats are made with a PVC material that is resistant to UV rays and saltwater. PVC pontoon boats can last for many years if they are properly cared for.
Fabric pontoon boats are made with a fabric that is coated with a gel or wax. This coating helps to protect the fabric from cracking and drying out and stay waterproof. Fabric pontoon boats can also last for many years if they are properly cared for.
There are some cons to owning a pontoon boat. Pontoon boat owners need to be aware of the fact that their boat may not last as long as they would like. The waterproofing of a pontoon boat can be shortened by UV rays, saltwater, and lack of care.
Why Do Pontoon Boats Leak and Deflate?
Pontoon boats are a great idea for boaters who want to enjoy the water without having to worry about major repairs. However, they are not immune to leaking and deflation.
One reason why pontoon boats may leak is because of the seams. The tubes that make up the pontoon boat are joined together with seams, and these seams can sometimes come undone. This is more likely to happen in rough waters.
Another reason why pontoon boats may leak is because of the flooring. The flooring on pontoon boats is usually made of plywood, and this plywood can sometimes get waterlogged and start to rot. This is why it’s important to check the flooring regularly for signs of water damage.
Finally, pontoon boats may leak because of the tubes themselves. The tubes can sometimes get punctured, and this can cause the pontoon boat to lose air and start to deflate.
Pontoon boats are a fun way to spend time on the lake, but they do require some maintenance. Be sure to check the seams, flooring, and tubes regularly to make sure they are in good condition.
Materials Used in A Pontoon Boat
There are three basic materials that go into making a pontoon boat: PVC, fabric with coating, and fiberglass bottom. Each of these materials has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
- PVC is the most inexpensive option and is easy to work with. However, it is not as durable as the other two materials and is not as resistant to UV rays.
- Fabric with the coating is more durable than PVC and is resistant to UV rays. However, it is more expensive and can be difficult to work with.
- Fiberglass bottom is the most durable and resistant to UV rays of the three materials. However, it is also the most expensive and can be difficult to work with.
When choosing a material for your pontoon boat, you will need to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each option to decide which is best for you. If you are new to boating, you may want to choose a material that is easy to work with.
If you are looking for a durable boat that will last for many years, you may want to choose a material that is more expensive but will hold up better over time.
Boat Inspectors: About the Lifespan of Pontoon Boats
Boat inspectors say that the average lifespan of a pontoon boat is around 10 to 20 years. This does not, however, imply that the boat will not need any maintenance during this time.
Pontoon boats are known for their durability, but they still need to be properly maintained in order to stay in good shape. There are suggestions from the Inspectors to prolong its lifespan:
- First, you need to make sure that the pontoon is properly winterized. This means that you should drain all the water from the boat and then store it in a dry, enclosed space. You should also cover the boat to protect it from the elements.
- Second, you need to regularly inspect the boat for any damage. This includes checking the hull for any cracks or holes. You should also check the frames, which are the support structures that the pontoon floats are attached to. These frames can become damaged over time, so it is important to inspect them regularly.
- Third, you need to keep the pontoon clean. This entails clearing any debris or dirt that has accumulated on the hull. You should also regularly wax the hull to protect it from the sun and elements.
- Fourth, you need to keep the pontoon in good working order. This means regularly servicing the engine and other mechanical parts. You should also check the electrical system and make sure that all the lights are working properly.
What Does Boat Insurance Cover?
Most pontoon boat insurance policies will cover damages to your boat caused by things like weather, fire, theft, and collision with another vessel. Some policies will also cover accidental damage, like if you hit a submerged object while out on the water.
Depending on the insurer, you may be able to add on additional coverage for things like accidental tear, towing, and labor costs or for rental reimbursement if your boat is being repaired.
It’s also important to know that most boat insurance policies have a deductible, which is the amount you’ll have to spend out of pocket. Deductibles can range from $250 to $1,000, so be sure to choose an amount that you’re comfortable with.
Final Thoughts
Pontoon is a great investment for anyone who loves spending time on the water. They are versatile and can be used for a variety of water sports, making them a great choice for a family that enjoys spending time together outdoors.
There are a few things you need to know in order to make sure your pontoon boat lasts as long as possible. First, it is important to always maintain your boat and keep it clean. This will help to extend the life of the boat and keep it looking its best.
Second, it is important to choose the right accessories for your boat. There are a variety of accessories available, and it is important to choose those that are durable and of good quality.
Third, it is important to purchase a pontoon boat with a good warranty. This will give you peace of mind in knowing that you are covered in case of any problems.
