Boat docks add value to your property but must be inspected and maintained regularly. A well-maintained dock will prevent serious issues, such as rot, splintering, and cracking, from developing.
If you own a composite or aluminum dock, inspect it regularly for rust. A rusted section signifies it’s time to replace the entire dock. Contact a Boat Dock Repair now!
In general, the process of boat dock repair involves several steps. These include determining the damage, prepping tools and materials, taking safety precautions, and performing the actual repair. It is important to remember that repairing a floating dock is not just about making it look good but also about ensuring its structural integrity and durability.
A common problem that occurs in floating docks is leakage and cracking. These can be caused by a variety of factors. If a leak is due to a damaged or faulty seal, it can usually be fixed by using silicone sealant. In some cases, however, the leak may be due to a structural weakness that requires replacement of a particular dock section or the entire dock structure.
Another common issue that occurs in docks is wood rot. This can be caused by a fungal decay that attacks and deteriorates the wooden boards that make up the deck of the dock. The most common way to deal with this is to replace the damaged boards with new treated wood. However, in some cases, replacing the entire dock can be a more cost-effective solution.
Other issues that may occur in a floating dock include rust and corrosion. If the dock is located in a saltwater area, it can be prone to rust and corrosion from repeated exposure to saltwater and humidity. In such a case, it would be best to use a waterproof barrier to protect the dock from moisture and salt.
Additionally, a floating dock should be periodically washed with fresh water to remove salts and other contaminants. It is also a good idea to install anodes that will serve as sacrificial metals and prevent the corroding of the main steel dock structure.
Floating docks are subject to powerful forces from the waves and can start to warp or bend over time. If this happens, it can become a tripping hazard for boats and people using the dock. This can also cause the floats to become dislodged. The simplest way to address this is to re-tighten the connection at the stern and the bow, but if it continues to happen, it may be time to consider replacing the floats.
Damaged Floats
When dock floats are damaged, they can affect the structural integrity of the entire system. Inspecting the floats regularly for punctures, cracks, and other damage can help prevent further deterioration and instability. Damaged floats can be easily replaced to restore stability and buoyancy to the dock.
Floating docks are constantly exposed to water and harsh weather conditions. This constant exposure can cause wood to rot and deteriorate over time. The appearance of rot and rotting is an indicator that the protective coatings on your dock are starting to break down, leaving the wood vulnerable to further wear. Repainting and resealing can help extend the life of your dock, but it’s a good idea to consider replacing the wooden components if they’re significantly damaged or rotted.
In addition to rotting and deteriorating wood, boat docks may experience hardware corrosion from repeated exposure to saltwater. Checking bolts, screws, and connections regularly for rust can help prevent further damage. In some cases, simply removing the metal parts and re-tightening them can repair the problem. Using stainless steel hardware is recommended because it offers resistance to corrosion in harsh water environments.
If you’re doing an inspection on your floating dock, be sure to wear proper safety equipment and create a safe working environment. It’s also a good idea to let other people on the dock know that you’re doing an inspection so they can stay clear of the area while you’re working.
Another common issue that arises during a dock inspection is the condition of the deck boards. These can be loose, which poses a tripping hazard and allows water to seep into the underside of the dock, potentially causing further damage. Inspecting the boards regularly and re-securing them as needed can minimize tripping hazards and keep water from seeping into the underside of the dock. In severe cases, it’s a good idea to replace the deck boards completely. It’s also a good idea for owners to consider installing bumpers on their docks to absorb impacts from boats and other objects. These can be a cost-effective way to improve safety and durability of your dock system.
Cracks and Warps
When a dock starts to warp or bend, it is a sign of serious problems. It can be caused by a number of issues, including water damage and weak joints. In some cases, it can be repaired by replacing a few boards or beams. However, if major load-bearing areas are experiencing significant breakage, it may be necessary to replace the entire dock to ensure its structural integrity.
If you suspect any signs of bending or warping, it is best to get a professional out as soon as possible. They will be able to determine if the problem is isolated and repairable, or if it will require more extensive work.
In general, wooden docks are prone to cracking and warping over time, regardless of how well they are maintained. In fact, they are often more prone to this than concrete slipways because they are more likely to absorb moisture and expand. Wooden docks should be sealed yearly to help prevent moisture absorption and the related problems.
Metal docks are usually less prone to bending and warping, but they can also experience corrosion from the water and weather elements. It is important to have any metal parts of your dock regularly rinsed with fresh water to remove salt and other chemicals that can cause corrosion. They should also be checked for rust spots and replaced as needed.
Possibly the most common type of dock damage is rot. This is often caused by a fungal decay in the wood that can be difficult to detect without a close inspection. The most effective way to address this is by replacing the damaged boards with new, treated wood that can withstand water damage and fungal decay better than traditional untreated lumber.
Another common issue with boat docks is loose boards or nails. These are easily fixed, but it is important to use the proper fasteners that are meant for outdoor, waterproof use. Loose boards are a safety hazard and can create falling hazards for people on the dock. It is also a good idea to inspect the dock for any holes or other damage that might allow water or debris to enter the structure.
Hardware
All dock hardware needs to be inspected on a regular basis for signs of wear and tear. If you notice any rusting or looseness, have them repaired immediately to prevent further damage to the dock.
It’s also important to check the condition of all dock accessories, such as ladders, stairs and handrails. They should all be free of splinters and cracks and have non-skid surfaces. Also be sure to examine the safety and security of any lighting on your dock.
If you have a movable dock, such as a lift-in dock, then it’s worth inspecting it regularly for issues like damage to the wheels and posts that allow it to be rolled in and out of the water for the winter. You should also check the cables and winch system to make sure they’re working correctly.
Floating docks typically cost between $250 and $1,500 to fix. They’re commonly used on lakes that have varying water levels or soft bottoms that wouldn’t support a fixed dock.
The location of the dock can have a big impact on repair costs. A private pond, for example, will have lower repairs costs than a lake with rocky shorelines and high tides.
Piling docks typically have wood pilings that anchor them in the water and need to be repaired or replaced if they’re damaged or rotting. The skeleton of the dock can also suffer from other issues like splintering and rot, so it’s important to keep an eye out for these problems.
Pipe docks are a different type of floating dock that’s often made from PVC pipes filled with concrete. They’re more durable than traditional wooden docks, but they can still have problems like rot and splintering. In addition, the pipes can be affected by the constant flow of water and may need to be repaired or replaced.
A well-maintained boat dock can add value to your home, but even the best-kept ones will eventually need to be replaced. Knowing the difference between a dock that’s repairable and one that’s ready for replacement will help you make a wise decision.