Pontoon Boat & Deck Boat Forum

I have a 2019 Harris that has underskinning.

There is no underskinning outside the outside toons.

If that plywood was covered, would that help protect it? Increase its life?

Thanks.

I can't offer an opinion because my 20-year-old pontoon boat is not under skinned and the wood appears to be rock solid where I can see it. My boat lives in my carport style boathouse hanging on a sling, so it does not get rained on. We use our boat all year, but in the summer it's 3-4 times per week. I do hang the boat with the bow a few degrees high to ensure good drainage.

I thought that underskinning was just intended to reduce the drag of water hitting the cross members while underway. I can't help but wonder if residual moisture could get temporarily trapped behind the aluminum skin, thus slowing the drying process? Having the outer edges uncovered might help the moisture escape.

Marc

Marc K wrote: ↑

Mon Jul 27, 2020 4:56 pm

I can't offer an opinion because my 20-year-old pontoon boat is not under skinned and the wood appears to be rock solid where I can see it.
Marc

Agree with Marc. My 17 year old was untouched on the lift for many years (before I owned it). When we rebuilt this year, the decking was still in really good shape. It was the carpet that created the need to use new decking, not the wood. Also not under-skinned.

-Paul

Good to hear.

Thanks guys.