The long-term effect of saltwater and freshwater can damage your pontoon boat if you\u2019re not serious about inspecting and maintaining it. Let’s take a look at how to better protect your pontoons and your investment.<\/p>\n\n\n
![\"Do](\"https:\/\/decideoutside.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Do-Pontoon-Boats-Need-Bottom-Paint.jpg\")
<\/picture><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nDo All Pontoon Boats Need Bottom Paint?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Yes, however, some boats will need more frequent reapplication. There are several factors that affect the life of the bottom paint on your boat. The type of water you\u2019re boating in will affect the quality of the paint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Freshwater can damage the paint in the long run. However, saltwater will cause more damage in the same period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You should also think about how long your boat has been moored<\/a>. In general, pontoon boats that are taken out on the ocean need a good quality bottom paint to protect the boat’s body. It\u2019s recommended to apply bottom paint to your pontoon boat even if you\u2019re using it in freshwater. However, if you don\u2019t keep it in the water for extended periods, the paint might not be that critical.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To sum it up, bottom paint is applied in the following cases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, you should clean the boat thoroughly using pressured water once you\u2019ve removed it from the water. This will protect the hull from algae buildup and will keep the body in perfect condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Paint creates a protective layer that prevents the growth of bacteria, algae, and the accumulation of salt on the body of the boat. These fouling agents affect the speed and overall performance of your boat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Most manufacturers recommend the use of antifouling paints that work for various types of boats. You can try to do the job yourself after buying the tools from a marine shop, or you can hire a professional to do the job on your behalf.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can always contact the manufacturer of your pontoon boat and ask about the most recommended paint type. Although there are several types of bottom paints on the market, some of them might actually harm the body of the boat.<\/p>\n\n\n You should look for a bottom paint<\/a> that contains a biocide. This chemical is slowly released into the water and prevents algae, slime, plants, and other forms of aquatic life from attaching to the bottom of your boat and ruining it in the long run.<\/p>\n\n\n Some bottom paints contain copper oxide, which is a common biocide. If your boat is made of aluminum, you should avoid this kind of paint. Copper and aluminum react together to cause corrosion, which damages the body of your pontoon boat<\/a>. Make sure that you\u2019re picking a copper-free paint<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Painting the bottom of your boat isn\u2019t a difficult task. As a matter of fact, it can be a fun DIY project that you can complete with your friends and family. You\u2019ll need to shop for some tools at the marine shop to make sure that everything you\u2019ll need will be available while you\u2019re doing the job. You will need the following tools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Before you apply a new layer of paint, you need to remove the old layers of paint and primer. Use sandpaper to sand down the old layers until you are completely sure that there\u2019s no paint left.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Use a piece of cloth or an air compressor to clean the surface by removing all the particles, dust, debris, or residue. Applying the paint to a dirty surface will affect how the paint will look and its overall quality. If there\u2019s algae or mud, use a chemical solvent<\/a> to get rid of the grease and dirt. <\/p>\n\n\n\nHow Does Paint Work?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Which Paint Is Best For a Pontoon Boat Bottom?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Rust-Oleum](\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/51ff+4InItL._SL160_.jpg\" "\\"Rust-Oleum")
<\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n![\"TotalBoat](\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/51C3Ax7QfNL._SL160_.jpg\" "\\"TotalBoat")
<\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n![\"Bottom](\"https:\/\/decideoutside.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Do-Pontoon-Boats-Need-Bottom-Paint-1.webp)
<\/picture><\/h2>\n\n\n\nHow to Apply Bottom Paint to a Pontoon Boat<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Step 1: Start by Prepping<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Step 2: Clean the Surface<\/h3>\n\n\n
![\"Star](\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41FMMdKLkML._SL160_.jpg\" "\\"Star")
<\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nStep 3: Apply the Primer<\/h3>\n\n\n
![\"TotalBoat](\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/51n4YmV64LL._SL160_.jpg\" "\\"TotalBoat")
<\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n