Should You Re-Upholster or Replace Your Pontoon Seats?

Pontoon boats provide the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure, but their upholstery can wear out over time due to sun exposure, moisture, and frequent use. When your seats start to fade, crack, or tear, you face an important decision: Should you re-upholster your current seats or replace them with pre-made upholstered pedestals?

Both options have their advantages and drawbacks, and the best choice depends on your budget, skill level, and long-term goals for your boat’s restoration. Let’s compare the two options.

1. Re-Upholstering Your Existing Pontoon Seats

Full set of skins for a typical pontoon like the one above will average $5900/set.

Why are pontoons so much to re-upholster?
Pontoon furniture requires approx 30% more vinyl than most average boats, because the vinyl skins cover more than just the front facing edges of the seats/pedestals. They require very large "sleeves" to go over the pedestals where vinyl shows thru the outside fencing, etc - all those large sections of the vinyl skins amounts to substantially more material costs, time, and labor.

Pros:

✅ Customization – Choose fabric type, colors, and padding to match your style and comfort needs.
✅ Preserves Original Layout – If you like your current seating arrangement, re-upholstering ensures you keep the same setup.
✅ Quality Material Options – You can opt for high-grade marine vinyl or other upgraded materials that offer better durability than factory-installed upholstery.

Cons:

🚫 Labor-Intensive – Removing old upholstery and re-covering seats can be a time-consuming process, especially if you DIY.
🚫 Potential Structural Issues – Once the old material is removed, you may discover deteriorated foam, rusted fasteners, or rotting wood, increasing costs.
🚫 Costs May Be Higher Than Expected – If additional materials or professional labor is needed, expenses can exceed the cost of replacing seats entirely.

2. Buying New Pre-Made Upholstered Pedestals

Complete Interiors like the one above in 4 different color options: $4900 (including shipping)

This option allows you to simply remove the existing bases, and put brand new pedestals ready-to-use in their place. Several different configurations and seating shapes to accomodate 90% of the pontoons on the market.

Pros:

✅ Cost-Effective – New pedestal seats often come at a lower price than professional re-upholstering services.
✅ Quick & Easy Installation – Instead of stripping and re-covering seats, you simply swap in brand-new ones.
✅ Modern Features – Many pre-made pedestal seats have improved ergonomics, built-in cup holders, storage compartments, and armrests.
✅ No Hidden Repairs – Unlike re-upholstering, new seats provide a fresh start with strong, reliable construction.

Cons:

🚫 Limited Customization – Pre-made pedestal seats are available in standard colors and designs, which may not perfectly match your boat’s aesthetic.
🚫 Potential Fitment Issues – If your pontoon has a unique seating arrangement, replacing with standard pedestal seats may require adjustments or storage modifications.

Which Option Is Best for You?

Opt for Re-Upholstering If:

✔️ You want a custom design, enjoy DIY projects, and your existing seat frames are in good condition.

Opt for New Pre-Made Pedestals If:

✔️ You prefer a hassle-free upgrade, modern styling, and want to avoid potential hidden damage in existing seats.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget, time, and vision for your pontoon. If you’re restoring an older boat for long-term enjoyment, replacing with new pedestal seating might be a wise investment. However, if your seats are structurally sound and you prefer a factory-looking refresh, re-upholstering can bring new life to your boat.

No matter which path you take, upgrading your pontoon’s seating improves comfort, aesthetics, and resale value—making it a worthwhile investment either way! 🚤✨