Pontoon Boat & Deck Boat Forum

Ok, getting ready to start a rebuild. I was planning on getting the plywood and everything else from pontoon stuff. But, I got to thinking about the plywood. I would rather buy it locally, just so I can see it. Make sure the edges are in good shape, that kind of thing. I did find some marine grade plywood at a hardwood distribution center. I also found this "Roseburg" brand marine grade plywood at menards. And it's about $30 cheaper a sheet. Now I do want to build the boat right, but I also like saving money. So does anybody have any ideas about the menards plywood?

I wood (he he) say that the Marine Grade plywood from Menards, wood (sorry) be fine! I've used it for bases for tiled ponds and a hot tub. Never had a rot issue.

The Roseburg Marine Ply at my local Menards is not a treated product. This is good because "green treat" or standard pressure treated lumber will react with aluminum. It is also 7 ply vs. 5 ply, which is also good because you want the extra strength especially with 24" o.c. cross members. However, it will not last as long as CCA treated marine ply, which is the marine industry standard for pontoon builders.

I used the Marine grade plywood from Menards in my rebuild last year. The pontoon sat in the water all last summer and then in the back yard on the trailer all winter and it still looks like new on the underside.

I am really wanting this to be a "one and done" type of boat. Meaning fix it one time and be done with it. So, I think I will go ahead and get the CCA wood from PS.com. But, thanks for the info.

I used Arauco Ply from Menards on my rebuild. Its Non-treated 7 ply with VERY few voids and is made from a rot resistant pine with the same glue used in Marine ply. I'm on year 5 since my rebuild an not a single complaint. I also used in on the deck of my snowmobile trailer 10 years ago and its holding up VERY well despite being exposed to the elements 24/7. Its not Marine grade but a very close second.

Wow. So are you treating the plywood with any kind of sealer? Or just leaving as is from the store?

Who cares about Marine Grade Plywood?

I want Air Force grade plywood!!!

From what I've read, you only need air force grade plywood if your boat can catch air. I only have a 40 HP motor, so no air for me......

Some of us keep our heads in the air! no matter the speed!

BobG wrote:Who cares about Marine Grade Plywood?

I want Air Force grade plywood!!!

Since chairs will be mounted to it, the Chairforce plywood sounds like a suitable alternative.