Best Flooring Types For Pontoon Boat? Prices, Installation Cost, Pros and Cons

Selecting the right flooring for your pontoon boat is a crucial decision that impacts not only aesthetics but also comfort, durability, and maintenance requirements. The flooring on your pontoon endures constant exposure to water, sun, and foot traffic, making material selection particularly important. From traditional marine carpet to modern vinyl and composite options, today’s market offers diverse solutions to fit various budgets and preferences. Each flooring type comes with distinct advantages, installation requirements, and price points that boat owners should carefully consider before making an investment. This guide examines the most popular pontoon boat flooring options, comparing their costs, installation process, and long-term performance to help you make an informed decision.

Marine carpet remains one of the most traditional and widely used pontoon boat flooring options. This specially designed carpet features synthetic fibers (typically polypropylene or polyester) that resist mildew, fading, and water damage better than standard residential carpets.

Marine carpet typically costs between $8 and $20 per square foot, including materials. Professional installation adds approximately $3-$7 per square foot, bringing the total for an average pontoon boat (around 200 square feet of deck space) to $2,200-$5,400.

Pros of Marine Carpet

• Provides comfortable, non-slip surface for barefoot walking
• Offers noise dampening properties
• Available in numerous colors and patterns
• Relatively affordable compared to higher-end options
• Familiar feel that many boat owners prefer

Cons of Marine Carpet

• Requires more maintenance as it can trap dirt, sand, and debris
• Typically needs replacement every 5-7 years with regular use
• Can develop mold and mildew if not properly dried
• Fades over time from sun exposure
• More difficult to clean thoroughly than hard surfaces

Vinyl Pontoon Flooring

Marine-grade vinyl has become increasingly popular for pontoon boats due to its durability and low maintenance requirements. Modern vinyl options include woven vinyl products like Infinity Luxury Woven Vinyl and similar brands that combine aesthetics with performance.

Quality marine vinyl flooring costs between $15 and $30 per square foot for materials. Installation runs approximately $4-$8 per square foot, making the total investment for an average pontoon around $3,800-$7,600.

Pros of Vinyl Flooring

• Highly water-resistant and quick-drying
• Exceptional durability with 10+ year lifespan potential
• Easy to clean with just soap and water
• UV-resistant properties minimize fading
• Available in designs that mimic teak or other premium materials
• Minimal maintenance requirements

Cons of Vinyl Flooring

• Higher initial investment than carpet
• Can become hot underfoot in direct sunlight
• Premium vinyl products can be costly
• Some designs may appear less “boaty” than traditional options
• Professional installation recommended for best results

Aluminum Pontoon Flooring

Aluminum flooring represents a durable, lightweight option that’s becoming more common on modern pontoon boats. These systems typically feature marine-grade aluminum sheets with anti-slip texturing.

Materials for aluminum flooring range from $12 to $25 per square foot. Installation costs approximately $5-$10 per square foot due to the specialized work required, bringing the total to $3,400-$7,000 for a typical pontoon boat.

Pros of Aluminum Flooring

• Exceptional durability and longevity (20+ years with proper care)
• Lightweight compared to some alternatives
• Completely waterproof and won’t harbor mold or mildew
• Minimal maintenance requirements
• Environmentally sustainable and recyclable
• Fire-resistant properties

Cons of Aluminum Flooring

• Can become extremely hot in direct sunlight
• Provides less comfort underfoot than softer options
• Creates more noise when walking or during rain
• Limited aesthetic options compared to carpet or vinyl
• Can be slippery when wet unless properly textured

Composite Decking for Pontoons

Composite decking materials, similar to those used for residential decks, have adapted for marine applications. These products combine plastic polymers with wood fibers to create durable, water-resistant planks.

Marine-grade composite decking typically costs $18 to $35 per square foot for materials. Installation adds $6-$12 per square foot due to the precise fitting required, bringing the total investment to approximately $4,800-$9,400.

Pros of Composite Decking

• Exceptional durability with 15-25 year lifespans possible
• Resists rotting, warping, and splintering
• Low maintenance requirements
• Available in various colors and wood-like finishes
• Environmentally friendly options available using recycled materials
• Good traction even when wet

Cons of Composite Decking

• Among the most expensive flooring options
• Heavier than some alternatives, adding weight to the boat
• Can retain heat in direct sunlight
• Installation can be complex and time-consuming
• Some products may fade over time despite UV protection

Marine-Grade Plywood with Sealant

Marine-grade plywood with proper sealing and finishing represents a more traditional pontoon flooring approach. This option typically uses pressure-treated plywood designed to resist moisture and rot, finished with multiple coats of marine-grade sealant.

Materials for this approach cost approximately $8 to $15 per square foot, depending on wood quality and finish. Installation adds $4-$8 per square foot, totaling $2,400-$4,600 for an average pontoon boat.

Pros of Marine Plywood

• Can be finished in various ways (paint, stain, additional coverings)
• More affordable than composite or premium vinyl options
• Relatively easy to repair or replace damaged sections
• Provides a traditional wood boat feel
• Moderate weight compared to other options

Cons of Marine Plywood

• Requires regular maintenance and resealing
• Shorter lifespan than synthetic alternatives (typically 7-10 years)
• More vulnerable to water damage if the seal is compromised
• Can be slippery unless properly textured or covered
• Susceptible to scratches and cosmetic damage

Foam Decking (SeaDek and Alternatives)

Foam decking products like SeaDek, MarineMat, and similar options utilize closed-cell EVA foam to create comfortable, customizable pontoon flooring. These materials are frequently used in high-end boats and can be custom-cut to fit specific deck layouts.

Premium foam decking costs between $25 and $45 per square foot for materials, making it one of the most expensive options. Professional installation adds $5-$10 per square foot, bringing the total to $6,000-$11,000 for a typical pontoon boat.

Pros of Foam Decking

• Exceptional comfort underfoot and cushioning effect
• Superior non-slip properties even when wet
• Excellent noise and vibration dampening
• Available in custom colors, patterns, and thicknesses
• UV-stable formulations resist fading
• Can be customized with logos or designs

Cons of Foam Decking

• Highest cost option for pontoon flooring
• Can be damaged by sharp objects or improper cleaning chemicals
• Professional installation highly recommended for best results
• May require specialized cleaning products
• Complex custom designs increase costs significantly

DIY vs. Professional Installation

Many pontoon owners consider DIY installation to reduce costs, but the difficulty varies significantly by material. Professional installation typically adds 30-40% to the material cost but provides warranty coverage and expert results.

Carpet and vinyl installations are more DIY-friendly for experienced boat owners, while composite, aluminum, and custom foam installations generally benefit from professional expertise. Most manufacturers provide detailed installation guidelines, and numerous online resources offer step-by-step instructions for common flooring types.

Installation Cost Comparison Table

Flooring Type	DIY-Friendly	Professional Installation Cost	Tools Required
Marine Carpet	Moderate	$3-$7/sq ft	Utility knife, adhesive, roller, staple gun
Vinyl	Moderate	$4-$8/sq ft	Utility knife, marine adhesive, roller, heat gun
Aluminum	Difficult	$5-$10/sq ft	Metal cutting tools, specialized fasteners, sealants
Composite	Difficult	$6-$12/sq ft	Specialized saws, fasteners, jigs
Marine Plywood	Moderate	$4-$8/sq ft	Saw, drill, sealants, finishing materials
Foam Decking	Very Difficult	$5-$10/sq ft	Precision cutting tools, templates, adhesives

Maintenance Requirements and Longevity

The maintenance requirements for pontoon flooring directly impact the total ownership cost. High-maintenance options like carpet may have lower upfront costs but higher long-term expenses due to more frequent replacement needs.

Vinyl, composite, and aluminum options typically provide the best return on investment when considering their longer lifespan (10-25 years) compared to carpet (5-7 years). Regular cleaning appropriate to the material type is essential for maximizing lifespan regardless of flooring choice.

For all flooring types, covering the boat when not in use, promptly cleaning spills, and performing manufacturer-recommended maintenance will significantly extend the useful life of your pontoon flooring investment.