Choosing the Right Floating Swim Platform for Aquatic Ecosystems

ByBNW TEAM

Most people buy a floating platform thinking only about one thing: where they will use it in the summer months! But the body of water significantly affects the platform’s performance and durability.

Using the platforms on the rivers

Using a floating platform on a river can be tricky. The obvious issue is current. Even a mild flow puts constant lateral pressure on an anchored platform. So, if the platform connects to your boat via D-rings and dock lines, the current will keep pulling it sideways and downstream.

This may not always lead to risks. But it creates a drag effect that a calm lake doesn’t have. You will need a fixed boat or sandbar to tie to, or else the platform will drift. Circular platforms spin constantly in moving water, but rectangular platforms fare better.

Lakes are ideal

What is the ideal place to use a floating platform? The clear answer is a calm freshwater lake. You need not worry about tying the platform to a boat or anchoring. However, you still have to keep a few things in mind before using a floating swim platform on a lake.

  • Wind drift replaces the current in a lake, and on some bigger lakes, afternoon wind comes up fast.
  • There are saltwater and freshwater lakes. On a practical note, a platform used mostly on freshwater lakes will last longer than one used mostly on saltwater lakes. The PVC and seams don’t take well to salt exposure.
  • With Sandbars and swim coves, you can easily anchor in shallow water.

Remember that lakes are often more crowded than other waterbodies. So, think of the weight capacity of a swim platform before using it on lakes.

Ocean usage needs better durability

When you use a swim platform on any ocean, durability matters a lot. Salt is hard on everything, including ropes, hardware, PVC, and seams.

  • Using Stainless steel D-rings is a must in seawater. Standard steel corrodes quickly, but 316 stainless steel holds up better to marine exposure.
  • Reinforced seams last longer, and you should go for platforms with double-layer sidewalls and a third protective seam layer. Using single-layer construction does not make sense.
  • Not many users think of it, but rinsing a swim platform with clean water after every use helps extend its lifespan. A quick freshwater rinse before deflating and packing helps remove salt residue well.
  • In ocean usage, choppy waves are a factor. A thicker sidewall offers you much better stability. You will observe it when someone climbs back onto the platform from the water, and the platform doesn’t tilt too much.

Making the right choice

To make the right platform choice for lake, river, or ocean use, consider practical considerations. Look into features like shape, weight capacity, wind-resistant tie-downs, and reinforced seams.

Also, you should research brands that sell these swim platforms. Find out whether they offer a partial or complete warranty on their products. On sites like furthercustoms.com, you will find suitable platforms for use on any water. Check out their collection today!