When a pontoon has seen better days, most owners tend to buy and install a new one. However, you can repair and restore a pontoon in your private lake, and thus, save a lot of money in the process. For example, the deck can be damaged or rotten due to the harsh conditions in a lake. This article examines a few restoration tips for pontoons.

Inspection — Pontoons, just like any other type of deck, can soak up water over time and start to rot. If the pontoon's support posts are not treated properly, they will start to rot and eventually lose their strength. Consequently, the base will not manage to support the weight of the whole pontoon. Therefore, regular and thorough inspection of your pontoon is an essential regimen that helps to keep it in optimal shape. Additionally, check the pontoon for loose fasteners or missing screws or nails.

Permit — Check with your jurisdiction whether you need a permit to do repair works on your pontoon. Notably, you might not need a license to work on your pontoon in most states. Nonetheless, you might need to check with your local authority to confirm if there are any issues, such as underground utility lines or sensitive habitats, that might be disturbed during the restoration project.

Sinking Pontoon — Sometimes, a pontoon may start to sink because of various reasons. For instance, the harsh winter conditions can increase the frost line, which affects the foundation of a deck. Also, the constant contraction and expansion of soils in the water can affect the stability of the deck. Another reason is that the floater might be damaged and water may be penetrating the pontoon, weighing it down. Contact an expert to do repair work on the sinking pontoon if you are not a DIY person. The expert will repair or replace the faulty components that are causing the sinking problem and restore your pontoon to its pristine condition.

High-Quality Restoration Materials — If you want your pontoon to last longer, then you should never skimp on the quality of materials used for the restoration project. Some pontoon owners go for cheap and low-quality materials that lead to frequent damage and resultant repairs. If your pontoon is made of timber, for example, go for pressure-treated wood that is resistant to wear, tear, and water damage. You can also aim for aluminium and high-grade composites that can tolerate the harsh weather conditions in a lake. Furthermore, using such replacement components saves you money in the long term because of reduced maintenance costs.

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