Having a reliable pontoon dock for your boat or vessel is essential. But when considering buying second-hand pontoons for sale, you may be unsure of the pros and cons of this decision. That’s why at Micks Marine Maintenance, we are here to help.
Our team has decades of experience in the marine industry and specialises in repairing and maintaining pontoon docks. We want you to make an informed choice when deciding between second-hand pontoons and brand-new ones so that you get exactly what you need without any unexpected surprises down the line.
Having worked on and around pontoons and marinas for so many years, I know that having a reliable pontoon dock for your boat is essential. However, as with most things, when considering second-hand pontoons for sale, there are many advantages and disadvantages to consider. In this blog post, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of second-hand pontoons as well as offer our expert advice on making sure that whatever option you choose is right for your needs.
Pros of buying second-hand pontoon docks
Buying anything second-hand comes with its own set of advantages. Let’s take a look at what advantages second-hand pontoon docks for sale have to offer:
Cost-effective
One of the greatest pros of buying second-hand docks is the cost-effectiveness they offer. When buying a second-hand pontoon, you may find you save thousands compared to the price of a new pontoon, making it an ideal choice for those on a budget who want to save money on their pontoon purchase.
No lead time
In addition, there’s no lead time waiting for the pontoon to be made when you buy second-hand; you can typically get your hands on the dock much faster than having to wait for a new one to be manufactured and delivered. This can be especially beneficial for those who need their pontoon quickly.
It may be in good condition
Additionally, second-hand pontoons may be in good condition if properly maintained; if the previous owner took good care of the pontoon, it might be in great shape and ready to use immediately. This is especially true if the pontoon has been well-maintained and regularly serviced.
Cons of buying second-hand pontoon docks
Of course, you can’t have pros without cons, and second-hand pontoons come with a few drawbacks of their own.
May have hidden damage or repairs needed
When buying second-hand, it can be difficult to determine the dock’s history or usage. This can result in hidden damage or costly repairs that may not be immediately apparent. A few things to check for include corrosion, damage to the pontoon liner or foams, rot and structural damage.
Limited warranty or support
Second-hand pontoon docks for sale come with no warranty or support from the original installer or manufacturer. This can be a concern for those who want a level of protection or assistance in case their pontoon dock experiences unexpected issues.
It can be difficult to determine the dock’s history or usage
As previously mentioned, it can be difficult to determine the dock’s history or usage when buying second-hand. This can make it hard to predict potential future issues or problems with the dock. What seemed like a good buy at the time can ultimately cost you more money in repairs down the line.
It may not be suitable for your location
Not all pontoons are suitable for all locations. For example, a second-hand piled pontoon may not be ideal for an area with a rocky seabed, and a cabled pontoon won’t be suitable for areas that experience high winds and rough seas. If the pontoon comes with a gangway, this may not suit the quay line applicable to your location. The pontoon may also be too big for your water allocation. It’s important to consider the environmental factors of your location when buying second-hand pontoons. Read our blog post, ‘Floating Jetty System Location Considerations‘, for more information regarding locations.
Consider installation costs
Whilst you may have saved on the cost of the pontoon, gangway, pile brackets etc., everything else required to install the pontoon at your location has the same costs as a new one. For example, approvals cost the same whether the pontoon is new or old. If you require a new set of piles, this is the same cost. Relocation of the pontoon will incur a cost. You might decide you want to tidy up the second hand pontoon with new carpet, so again, incurring further costs. So, the money you might have saved on the pontoon may not weigh up, considering the second hand pontoon comes with no warranty, could potentially have underlying issues and looks nowhere near as good as a new one.
It may not be suitable for your boat
Finally, the size, weight, and type of your boat can affect the suitability of a second-hand pontoon dock. If a second-hand dock is not large enough to accommodate your boat or is not rated for the weight of your vessel, it may not be suitable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, second-hand pontoons for sale can be an excellent option if you are lucky enough to find one in good condition and the right specifications for your location. However, second-hand docks have several potential drawbacks, including hidden damage and repairs, limited warranty and support, difficulty in determining the dock’s history or usage, associated installation costs and suitability for your boat and location. If you’re looking to buy second-hand pontoons, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons carefully and make an informed decision.
At Micks Marine Maintenance, we understand that deciding between second-hand pontoons for sale and new ones is a big decision. This is why we strive to provide you with all the information and advice you need to make the best decision for your waterfront needs. Whether you decide to buy second-hand or new pontoons, you can rest assured that our team will be here to help with repairs, maintenance, and installation services when needed.