Price, Hull Design, and Other Factors
Learn The Difference Between Fiberglass and Aluminum
When it comes to choosing a houseboat for saltwater, you have to choose between fiberglass and aluminum boats. Now note that boats have been constructed from all kinds of materials such as steel, wood, concrete etc. But all these materials are quite heavy and subject to rust and rot. Concrete is extremely heavy, making navigation difficult.
Then you have plastic boats that although do not rust, are not strong enough for use on rough seas. So that leaves us with aluminum and fiberglass. Both have their differences, and pros and cons. The first difference that most buyers see is of course the price tag. Aluminum boats are cheaper than fiberglass ones. So if you are on a strict budget, aluminum is the way to go.
However, putting a boat in saltwater requires that you consider a host of factors, such as performance, maintenance costs, quality of rigging, durability, and hull design etc. In aluminum boats, steel corrosion can be a big problem, causing leakage and weakening of the hull. Secondly, an aluminum boat, even when it’s welded, is subject to a crack or breakage of seam sooner or later. Yes, it can be welded back, but the heat from the operation will further deteriorate the structure.
But fiberglass boats don’t have these problems. And this is where the difference of price becomes apparent. Since aluminum boats are less expensive and are mostly modeled for use in fresh water, they are rigged accordingly. This makes them subject to extreme corrosion, cracking, and breaking, more than fiberglass boats. And since you are going to pay for maintenance in the long-run, it makes sense to invest in a fiberglass boat.
Hopefully you found this information useful. Now go ahead and get the best boat for a saltwater river.
Fatima M.
Freelance Blogger
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