When it comes time to choose flooring for your pontoon boat, the question often arises: should you opt for vinyl or carpet?
With fall and winter setting in, humidity variations are an important factor to consider when making a sustainable and comfortable choice.
To help you make your decision, here is a brief comparison guide.
Carpets for comfort
Advantages:
◦ Pleasant underfoot, especially in summer when walking barefoot.
◦ Brings a warmer atmosphere to the interior of the pontoon boat.
Disadvantages:
◦ Moisture is its greatest enemy: temperature variations between seasons cause condensation that can seep into the fibers.
◦ More difficult to clean: stains and odors easily set in.
◦ Over time, it may develop mold or lose its comfort.
Vinyl for durability and easy maintenance
Advantages:
◦ Water and moisture resistant, making it a very practical choice as winter approaches.
◦ Easy to maintain: just sweep or hose it down and you're done.
◦ Offers a modern and elegant look, available in several finishes (wood, textures, etc.)
◦ Longer life than carpet: vinyl retains its appearance longer.
Disadvantages:
◦ May be slightly more slippery when wet (but non-slip finishes are available)..
◦ Less comfortable than carpet for walking barefoot.
The humidity factor as winter approaches
In Quebec, we know that humidity varies greatly between seasons. Your pontoon boat can go from hot, dry days to colder, wetter periods in a short period of time.
This is where vinyl clearly stands out. Unlike carpet, which retains water, vinyl repels it, helping to keep your floor in good condition for longer.
Verdict: which coating should you choose?
• If you're looking for flooring that's easy to maintain, durable, and resistant to climate changes, vinyl is the winning choice.
• If comfort is your priority, carpet may still be an attractive option... but it will require more maintenance.
At Canada Pontoon, we offer a beautiful selection of flooring options to suit your needs and lifestyle.
Come see us and we'll help you choose the best option for your boat!