Why is Alumetron the best option for Protecting my Pontoons than Toon-Brite?

Skipper January 30, 2025 Ask The Skipper

Helen Jelinek asked:

I am debating whether to use Alumetron or Toon-Brite to seal my aluminum pontoons. Why would Alumetron be better than Toon-Brite? Thank you!

Answer:

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Hi Helen,

We are not the manufacture of Toon-Brite sealant so we don’t know the composition or features of their product. I can, however, tell you about the features and benefits of Alumetron^®.

Alumetron^® is a unique clear coating because it bonds chemically to the aluminum. To the best of my knowledge all other coatings are resins or lacquers and are superficial.

One of the benefits of Alumetron^® is that you can use it below the waterline as well as above and it’s guaranteed not to crack, peel or yellow for up to 3 years (when overcoated with VS721^® low surface energy fouling release coating). Some authorized Aurora Dealers offer up to a 5 year factory warranty. Alumetron^® can last up to 10 years in fresh as well as salt water.

Toon-Brite as well as other lacquers and resins are not recommended for use below the waterline. Iin a short period of time they will yellow and crack. When water penetrates, it will wick and cause it to peel away. This type of coating typically requires stripping and refinishing every couple of years or annually.

Other benefits of Alumetron^® are; it’s water based so there are no toxic fumes that you need to deal with when applying and there are no VOC’s emitted that can harm the environment. Alumetron^® is a green product. Toon-Brite is solvent based.

Since you are applying long term protection to your pontoons and possibly a fouling release product to reduce biofouling, you may also wish to consider restoring your pontoons to their original finish. You can do this with Alumabuff^®. It only takes about 1 hour per pontoon to do this. Acid cleaners tend to etch and streak the finish on the pontoons, that’s why you shouldn’t use them. Restoring your pontoons to the original finish can add $5,000 to $20,000 to the value of your boat.

Here are some links to show you what’s possible:
Grizzly Ridge Honda’s Shiny Pontoon
Nelson’s Pontoon – Before and After Using Alumetron
Protective Clear Coat for Aluminum Pontoon Boats

Alumetron^® is easy to apply, just wipe it on with a cotton cloth and let it dry. This How to Video will show you how.

Now that you have this information, you can check and compare to see if Toon-Brite protectant offers the same benefits and then make up your mind.

Thanks for your question,
Captain Aurora
Richard Kittar