Modular Pontoons — What They Are, How They’re Priced, and What To Consider.
Modular Pontoons — What They Are, How They’re Priced, and What To Consider.
Usually priced by the square metre (m²)
Modular pontoons are interlocking HDPE floats that build into stable floating platforms. They assemble quickly, can be shaped to your job, and pack down cleanly when you’re finished. Ideal for short-term access, work platforms and events where permanent structures don’t make sense.
Where they shine
- Access & work platforms for outfalls, bridge works, survey and piling support
- Temporary docks & marinas for tenders or PWC
- Events: stages, camera platforms, safety walkways
- Emergency & resilience: flood access, temporary crossings
How pricing is normally built up
- Base hire: £/m² per day or per week
- Mobilisation & demobilisation: delivery, crew and setup/removal time
- Anchoring: deadmen, screw anchors, chains/warps, or piles/spud legs
- Accessories: handrails, ramps, ladders, cleats/bollards, fenders, lighting, anti-slip mats
- Site factors: depth and range, current/wave exposure, access, permits, environmental controls
Sizing, buoyancy & loads (kept simple)
Many cube systems use modules around 500 × 500 mm with a depth around 350–400 mm (manufacturer dependent). Fresh water provides ~1,000 kg buoyancy per m³. A 0.5 × 0.5 × 0.4 m float displaces ~0.1 m³ ≈ 100 kg theoretical buoyancy. For safe working we design well under that to preserve freeboard and stability.
Typical pedestrian platforms end up in the ~150–300 kg/m² envelope depending on configuration and bracing. Anything heavier (generators, compressors, small plant) needs a specific load plan and stability check.
Anchoring & station-keeping
- Sheltered water: corner anchors/deadmen with cross-bracing
- Flowing water: upstream/downstream angled moorings; consider spud legs/piles for positional control
- Exposed sites: more scope and heavier hardware, add fendering, or choose a lee position
Always allow for water-level change (tides, rainfall, sluice releases). Chafe protection saves call-outs.
Install, removal & logistics
Modules go in fast: small platforms can be ready in hours, larger layouts typically in one to two days plus anchoring, subject to access and weather. We can launch from shore, slip, or by small craft; tight sites are fine — components are man-portable.
Safety & compliance
- Non-slip surfaces, toeboards and handrails for crew/public areas
- Ladders for water recovery and safe egress
- Lighting/marking for navigation and night work
- RAMS, rescue planning, and environmental controls to suit the site
Useful add-ons
- Ramps to match quay/bank levels
- Cleats, bollards and fenders for boat handling
- Cable trays and pipe saddles for utilities
- Edge protection and public-facing barriers
What we need to quote accurately
- Length × width (m), location and dates
- Intended use & loads (people/plant) and required freeboard
- Water depth and range; current/wave exposure
- Access for equipment, anchoring preference, permits/conditions
Note: Figures above are typical for guidance. Final specifications and safe working loads depend on configuration, environmental conditions and the chosen pontoon system.
FAQs
Can it take a small machine?
Yes — the pontoons are rated for around 350 kg per m² in their standard configuration, which easily supports small plant and machinery when loads are spread evenly. For heavier equipment or concentrated loads, they can be double-layered to increase buoyancy and maintain freeboard. Share the machine weight, footprint, and lift plan, and we’ll design a safe layout to suit — safety and stability first
What about tides and current?
We design for range and flow, then choose moorings or spud legs accordingly. Good station-keeping avoids chafe and saves call-outs.
How fast can you install?
Small platforms: often same day. Larger layouts: typically 1–2 days plus anchoring, subject to access and weather.