Pontoon Boat Aluminum Extrusions

Pontoon boats are an extremely popular choice for boat enthusiasts of all ages due to their smooth and comfortable rides. While the pontoon design allows for a spacious deck and stability on the water, the construction materials are just as important as the design to ensure the integrity of the vessel. The numerous benefits of pontoon aluminum extrusions make them a standout choice for boat manufacturers seeking durability, performance, and versatility in their creations.

Aluminum Pontoons

Traditionally, pontoons are made entirely with aluminum. Aluminum is key for an exceptional pontoon from the tubes on the bottom to the channels, decking, rub rails, and even the paneling (known as the fence). Its low density ensures that the boat remains buoyant and easy to maneuver, improving fuel efficiency and reducing operational costs. Aluminum is corrosion-resistant, flexible, durable, and affordable, making it ideal for aquatic environments. Its flexibility and ductility allow designers to create original and visually pleasing boat designs.

Aluminum C Channels and Hat Channels

Despite its lightweight nature, aluminum offers a strength-to-weight ratio which provides crucial structural support for pontoon boats to withstand the rigors of boating, including waves, impacts, and heavy loads. Selecting aluminum channels for the structural support system in your pontoon boat allows for a lightweight, noncorrosive, and strong frame. Most pontoon manufacturers choose to use C channels and U channels in their construction, although a few have recently shifted towards using Hat channels instead. For added support, some manufacturers incorporate extruded aluminum tubing for pontoon Bimini top frames. All these options provide excellent support and strength to the pontoon’s framework.

Aluminum Pontoon Boat Deck

Pontoons decks are made in a variety of materials including plywood, composite, and aluminum. While all these materials are suitable for pontoon decking, aluminum stands out due to its exceptional corrosion resistance. Plywood pontoon decking requires a sealant because it is not inherently waterproof or water resistant. Although composite decking can be waterproof, it is extremely susceptible to mold and mildew and is an expensive choice. Aluminum pontoon decking is corrosion-resistant, lightweight, easy to maintain, and affordable. With aluminum pontoon decking, you can be confident that your boat will stand the test of time. The addition of vinyl flooring or carpet to the aluminum decking allows for comfort and customization.

Aluminum Pontoon Deck Trim with Rub Rails

What is the purpose of pontoon rub rails? The rub rail is the buffer between the boat decking and anything it touches. This includes docks, lifts, or in unfortunate circumstances, other boats. Aesthetically, rub rails cover the seam between the deck and hull of the boat. Aluminum is a popular pontoon rub rail choice for many reasons. Its flexibility allows the rub rails to be shaped and formed to fit the boat’s contours while its durability ensures minimal damage when it encounters other objects. Aluminum’s corrosion resistance guarantees the boat maintains its integrity and appearance over time.

Aluminum trims serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, enhancing the pontoon boat’s performance, longevity, and visual appearance. Commonly, aluminum extrusions are used to add structural support to the overall pontoon design. F channels and angles are also used as a finishing edge for aluminum decking to provide a neat and clean appearance while also protecting the deck’s edges from wear and tear. Furthermore, aluminum pontoon trims come in a variety of finishes and styles, adding a decorative element to the overall design.

Pontoon Manufacturing with Eagle

At Eagle Aluminum, we take pride in offering a comprehensive range of high-quality aluminum extrusions tailored to meet the specific needs of pontoon boat manufacturers. Our product line includes a variety of marine-grade aluminum angles, channels, tees, hat channels, rub rails and rub rail inserts to fit your specific needs. Additionally, we specialize in custom aluminum extrusions and our dedicated team of experts is available to collaborate with you on your design and engineering plans. By relying on our dependable and innovative aluminum solutions, you can guarantee a high-quality pontoon boat. Visit our online catalog or contact us today to discuss the aluminum pontoon extrusion options available.