How to Measure and Install New Pontoon Boat Fencing

Does your pontoon fencing need an upgrade? PontoonStuff has everything you need for a total overhaul of your pontoon perimeter with our all-in-one railing kits. 

Bring the life (and safety) back to your old pontoon boat with our affordable and durable die-cast aluminum railings in a variety of finishes.

Best Way to Measure for New Fencing for Pontoon Boats

First things first: to accurately measure for pontoon fencing, you need to determine the length and width of your deck and specific measurements for existing gates or radius curves. Keep in mind that with new railings you have the freedom to completely change gate location and seating layouts.

Consider the desired height of your new pontoon fence and any potential obstructions (like motor pods or ladders), and follow the steps below to get your most accurate measurement. 

Tip: Make sure you account for the distance that the outboard motor tilts forward and the motor's height above the deck when choosing railings.

Measure Your Pontoon Deck Dimensions

Measure the width of your pontoon deck by starting from the outermost edge of the deck on one side to the farthest edge on the other. You’ll do the same to measure the length of the deck. Be sure to include any swim platforms or other features you want the fencing to cover that may extend outward. 

Tip: We recommend including the deck trim in your measurement, as well. It’s important to note that most decks will either measure 96 inches or 102 inches, however, there are pontoon manufacturers who use 100 inches and 101 inches widths for their 8.5 foot-wide boats.

Measuring for Gates and Radius Curves

If you have gates that you want to fall in the same place on the deck as your old railings, measure the width of the opening for each gate and account for it in your final measurement. Otherwise, the only measurement needed is the length and width of the deck to start fresh with new railing kit and a new layout. 

If your pontoon has a radius curve (i.e., curved front or rear corners), measure the radius of the curve from the point where the straight railing transitions into the curve. 

Taking these factors into consideration from the start will ensure the most flawless installation possible. 

Ensure You Have the Right Fence Height for Your Pontoon

PontoonStuff's new railing kits are the industry standard of 26 inches tall. Most pontoon fencing is around 24-30 inches high, which is good to consider when switching from an old railing that might be taller or shorter. 

Additional Measurements to Consider

• Motor Pods/Inboards: If you have an inboard/outboard motor or a longer motor pod, you may need to take additional measurements to ensure the fencing fits properly.
• Stern Area: Some older pontoon boats may have smaller stern areas. Be sure to measure this area specifically.

Installing Your New Pontoon Fencing 

Proactively plan the layout of the fencing, including the placement of gates, to set yourself up for the easiest installation possible. 

Measure for Pontoon Gate Gaps

Ensure proper gaps are left for the gates to swing freely and that the door catch fits correctly. Using a plastic fence riser between the door and railing panel will provide the proper spacing.

Make Sure You Have Your Boat Fencing Hardware

Verify that all installation hardware is ready to go (our railing kits include all necessary hardware to install successfully by yourself).

Pontoon Fence Installation in Five Steps

1. Place front corner panels on the bow of the boat, and assemble any stern entry sundeck portion and place on the deck.

2. Loosely attach straight panels to determine the layout and spacing for seats, gates, and your preferred layout. Tighten railing bolts when railing position is decided on.

3. Install all hinges and gates, then clamp gates to railings with a 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch spacer (fence riser works great!).

4. With railing panels intact and gates installed (and clamped shut), adjust the railing kit on the deck to meet your decided layout and positioning (remember to account for the deck trim and install that first, if necessary!).

5. Once the position is determined and measurements have been made for the kit to be square, drill holes and bolt railings to the deck with fence risers between the railings and the flooring or deck trim. Install any sundeck cushions and railing supports to finalize your railing kit installation.

Not sure where to start? Check out our digital 3D Builder to plan your custom pontoon layout for free.

Fencing Tips From the Experts

1. If you’re building your boat from the ground up, you’ll want to install fencing before furniture so that you can install your boat seats as close as possible to the fence for additional support.

2. Double-check that you account for crossmembers so bolts will either pass through them cleanly or miss them completely. Nothing is worse than having a bolt too close to the vertical part of a crossmember to install a nut on it!

3. When installing fence risers, place them under each fence bolt to allow water to run off your boat deck. Allow the floor to dry when covered to prevent mold and mildew on your upholstery.

If you need additional guidance on measuring and installing pontoon boat fencing, check out videos from our trusted expert, Tom, from Tom’s Toons. 

Shop PontoonStuff for marine-grade seats, flooring, accessories, and more to keep your pontoon boat safe and stylish for years to come!