{"id":6437,"date":"2020-10-02T17:14:21","date_gmt":"2020-10-02T17:14:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/decideoutside.com\/?p=4339"},"modified":"2022-06-28T07:29:04","modified_gmt":"2022-06-28T12:29:04","slug":"how-to-clean-pontoons-on-pontoon-boat","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/decideoutside.com\/how-to-clean-pontoons-on-pontoon-boat\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Clean Pontoons on Pontoon Boat: Oxidation, Polishing, and More"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Like it or not, bare aluminum is always subject to surface oxidation. Add to that the algae and mineral buildup, and you\u2019ll be amazed by the amount of dullness and discoloration that can happen to your pontoons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Luckily, dirty pontoons aren\u2019t less durable than clean ones. However, your luxury furniture and railings will look their best over shiny pontoons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this guide, I\u2019ll show you how to clean pontoons on a pontoon boat. The process is fairly easy; it won\u2019t take more than 3 hours max. Without any further ado, let\u2019s \u201cdive\u201d right in!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How <\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Step 1: Give It a Quick Wash<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

As you may already know, the aluminum oxidation and buildup will need a specialized cleaning solution. But before that, I always recommend starting with a quick spray with a pressure washer<\/a>. This should remove any algae or soft buildup, which would increase the efficacy of the cleaner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/a>\"\"\n\n\n\n

If you don\u2019t have access to a pressure washer, use a wet rag with a spray bottle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Boaters who dock their pontoons for days at a marina will probably need to invest more time and effort in this step. If you trailer your boat after each use, the amount of buildup will be minimal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 2: Pick a Cleaner <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Luckily, there are dozens of different cleaners on the market for you to choose from. (these items are from Amazon)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I don\u2019t want to be decisive, but I think Bio-Kleen\u2019s Aluma-Kleen<\/a> and Sharkhide\u2019s Aluminum Cleaner<\/a> are the best. The latter is a bit more expensive, but it\u2019s also more concentrated. I\u2019d highly recommend it if you haven\u2019t cleaned your pontoons for years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some boaters prefer to stay on the affordable extreme by using a toilet bowl cleaner<\/a>. However, this will likely work your fingers to the bone!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 3: Wear Safety Equipment<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Since most cleaners are based on corrosive acids, you\u2019ll need to wear the following safety equipment before starting. (these items are from Amazon)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

  1. Sleeved rubber gloves<\/a>: to safely brush the cleaner while protecting your clothes<\/li>
  2. Vapor respirator<\/a>: to protect your lungs from the acid mist<\/li>
  3. Eye goggles<\/a>: to block accidental acid splashes<\/li>
  4. Long sleeves and pants: to shield your skin from acid burns<\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    If the acidic solution comes in contact with your bare skin or hair, stop working at once. Flush with fresh water for at least 15 minutes to make sure no acid remains over your body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    If your eyes were splashed, hold your face under running water for 15-20 minutes while letting the stream flood your eye. It\u2019s also advised to retract your lower eyelid with your finger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Whether you have symptoms or not, it\u2019s a good idea to consult a doctor after acid injuries. You may have to use special drops and ointments to prevent long-term damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Step 4: Apply the Cleaner <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    Whatever cleaner you choose, the process is similar. You\u2019ll need to apply the cleaner, scrub it with a brush and let it sit for a while before rinsing it off. (these items are from Amazon)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    If you can spare some cash, investing in a 1-gallon pump sprayer<\/a> would be ideal if you want to clean a whole pontoon in one pass. If you\u2019ll work with a rag, divide each pontoon into small sections. Asking a friend for help should make the job much more fun and manageable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    For optimal safety, I recommend getting a brush with an extending handle<\/a>. This should keep acid splashes at bay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    After brushing, leave the acid in contact with the aluminum surface for 5 to 10 minutes. It\u2019s important to never let it dry. If it dries, it\u2019ll harden up and form new deposits that are much harder to clean. To be safe, check the suggested setting time on the cleaner package.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    For extra grimy pontoons, applying a single acid coat probably won\u2019t cut it. Contrary to common belief, leaving the cleaner on for additional minutes won\u2019t make any difference. Instead, rinse the old cleaner and repeat the steps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Step 5: Polishing (Optional)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    By now, your pontoons should be free of discoloration, buildup, and algae. For some boaters, this may be more than enough. But if you want your pontoons to shine like mirrors, polishing would be the answer. (these items are from Amazon)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    First of all, you\u2019ll need to get a polisher<\/a>. Choose whatever brand you like, but make sure there\u2019s a speed dial that can fine-tune the speed according to your preferences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    For the polish solution, I haven\u2019t seen anything more effective than Sharkhide Metal Polish<\/a> and Bio-Kleen S07401 Metal Polish<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    How to Apply<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n