How To Cover a Pontoon Boat
Pontoon boats are a great choice for anyone who wants to spend their time on the water. They are inexpensive and easy to maintain, but they do still require some upkeep and maintenance.
This includes using a cover when storing the boat away after using it. Luckily, putting a cover on a pontoon boat can be quick and easy. Just follow these steps to get it done.
Clean Up The Inside Of The Boat
First, the inside of the boat should be cleaned and free of any items that could puncture the cover or cause any issues closing up the boat.
We always recommend decluttering the boat before covering it. This includes deep cleaning for any food or drinks as well if time permits it.
Identify Any Sharp Points Or Edges
Next, identify the sharp edges of the boat. All pontoon boats have one or two, and it's critical to make a note of them to avoid the cover from ripping on them.
Locate The Bow End Of The Cover
Now it’s time to get the cover ready. We like to lay out the cover as flatly as possible to identify each end, including the bow end of the cover.
The bow end is the first side we will focus on when putting the cover on the pontoon boat.
Place The Cover’s Bow End On The Boat
After finding the right end on the cover can be placed over the bow end of the boat. Try to secure the straps on this end first, so it’s easier to move the cover across the boat.
Pull Cover Over The Boat To The End
Next, pull the cover over the boat to the other end. Depending on the cover type, straps can be installed during this step or aftward.
Be careful to complete all areas, and try to pull the cover tightly to ensure a proper fit in all areas on the boat.
Get Rid Of Sagging Areas
After the cover is completely over the boat, look for any sagging or uneven areas. It’s best to address these because any unexpected bad weather can cause leaks into the boat if the cover is sagging.
Use The Tie Down Straps
All covers are different, but most use tie-down or ratchet straps. This step is when all straps are used to fit the cover around the boat securely.
Pontoon boats have a larger deck, so it can take some time to do this, which is why we recommend using the straps on the bow end first, so the cover doesn’t move around while pulling on it.
Tie The Straps And Finish Closing The Cover
Finish tying the straps and close up the last area of the cover from the dock.
How To Cover a Pontoon Boat For Winter
When winter approaches, a slightly different approach is required to prepare a pontoon boat for the cold weather. This includes using a winter cover and taking a few extra steps because the boat will be stored away for longer.
Covering a pontoon boat for winter is a great way to protect the boat from the cold and snow. The cover will also help to keep the water from freezing and causing damage to the boat.
To prepare the pontoon boat for winter storage, it needs to be covered with a tarp or protective covering. Use these tips to do it properly to ensure maximum protection and durability.
Take Precise Measurements
For winter storage, the measurements need to be a bit more precise. The cover needs to fit perfectly so the edges can be tighter, so no sagging occurs.
The type of cover will also depend on the measurements. For example, a winter cover needs to be more precise than someone simply using a plastic tarp.
Choose A Cover Based On Storage Location
Before choosing a cover, choose a storage location and pick the cover based on those conditions. Outdoor storage will require additional support compared to indoor storage.
For example, many boat owners can fit it inside their garage while others can only keep it stored in the driveway or backyard.
Take Care Of The Engine And Battery
Depending on the storage location, consider doing something with the engine and the battery to protect both from the cold.
Follow The Same Covering Steps Mentioned
To install the cover, follow the same steps we mentioned earlier. Begin with the bow end of the cover and gradually make the way to the front of the boat while ensuring the cover fits tightly.
Why It’s Important To Cover A Pontoon Boat
Pontoon boats are very popular because they are easy to maneuver and tons of fun to use. But they also require regular maintenance and care. And this includes covering them after use.
Covering a pontoon boat is important because it provides added sunlight protection, scratch resistance, reduced storage costs, and reduced theft risk.
UV And Sunlight Protect
Covering a pontoon boat is important because it provides excellent UV and sunlight protection. This helps boats last longer to avoid potential damage and fade on the exterior.
Excessive sunlight exposure is not good for a boat. It’s bad for the exterior paint, and after so long, it leads to damage and fading, which can be a costly fix.
Scratch And Damage Resistance
Another reason why putting a cover on a pontoon boat is the smart idea is to protect against scratches and damages. The surface of the boat is susceptible to knicks when it’s left out all the time with no protection.
Reduced Storage Costs
Storage costs can add up quickly, but because it’s so easy to use a cover with this boat, this is a cost that can be avoided.
This is another example of why pontoon boats are so affordable to maintain, making them popular among many who love boating but don’t want to spend too much money.
This means only when winter comes around does the boat need storage. Whether at a paid location or at home, it’s much easier to handle than regular storage after each use.
Reduced Risk Of Theft
Lastly, there is a reduced risk of petty theft on a pontoon boat when it gets covered after use. Without a cover, there is easier access for someone to board a boat and steal things.
A cover makes it more difficult and hides anything that might be valuable left on the boat too.
