Dock Restoration is a comprehensive service that enhances the safety and performance of your dock. The first step in this process involves inspecting the foundation of your dock. Any deterioration of the foundation necessitates total dock replacement.
Next, professionals will look at rot and decay in the wood planks that make up your dock. Any rotten areas must be replaced with new treated wood to avoid future problems.
The natural and unpredictably fluctuating environment that a dock sits in can cause its structures to quickly become damaged. It is critical to regularly perform safety and quality inspections of your dock so that these issues can be addressed before they worsen. This process can involve checking for cracks, warping, rusting and more. These inspections can be performed by yourself or by a professional. A professional can provide you with a thorough evaluation of your dock to determine whether it requires a full replacement or only minor repairs.
One of the biggest signs that a dock is in need of repair or replacement is wood rot. This is caused by a fungus that can eat away at the wood, causing it to decay and crumble. The best way to fix this issue is by replacing the affected boards with new treated wood that has been put through a preservation process.
Rust is another common problem with docks. The corrosive salt water can eat away at metal components like beams and supports, causing them to break or crack. This type of damage is hard to fix, so it is important to keep an eye out for any areas where rusting has occurred. If it is found in major load-bearing areas of your dock, it may be necessary to replace it altogether for safety and structural integrity.
A floating dock is built on a foundational support structure known as a piling. If this concrete structure becomes damaged, it is usually time to do a complete dock replacement. This is because the foundation of a dock is what holds it up, and if it is compromised, it will come falling down into the water at the slightest nudge.
Wooden docks can also develop warps over time due to constant pressure on the surface from waves, currents and vessels that pass by. In order to prevent warping, you should clean your wooden dock at least once a year. Use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the entire surface, paying special attention to any areas that are showing visible dirt or stains. Once the cleaning has been completed, rinse the dock thoroughly using a hose to remove all of the cleaning solution and loosened dirt.
Rot
When wood decays, it can compromise the structural integrity of a dock and create safety hazards. Regular inspections can identify rotted areas of the dock and allow for timely replacement to prevent further damage and reduce safety risks. Staining the dock can also enhance aesthetics and extend its lifespan. To maximize the benefits of staining, it’s important to choose a water-based stain that is safer for marine life and won’t leave toxic pigments in the water. Re-staining in the fall is a great time to tackle this task, as water levels are typically lower.
Other common issues in dock restoration projects include rusted hardware and loose or damaged planks. These can be easily addressed by tightening or replacing corroded screws and bolts. It is especially important to check the hardware that connects the dock to its supports and ensure that it is secure. If a piece of hardware is lost or damaged, it can lead to significant problems that may require the complete replacement of the dock.
The frame of a dock provides structure and support, so it’s essential that it remains stable and in good condition. Damage to the frame can be costly, and it’s often more cost-effective to replace a dock when significant damage is found. For example, a damaged piling can cause the entire dock to become unstable and unsafe for use.
A professional will inspect the whole dock for signs of deterioration, including underwater components. These are often overlooked by dock owners, but they can be just as important to the health and longevity of a dock as above-water components. The professional will check for rust, cracks, or rot in both the wooden and metal parts of the dock, including underwater platforms and pilings.
Over the years, your boating needs and social gatherings might change, and you may find that your current dock no longer meets your needs. Retrofitting or expanding your dock is an option, but it’s important to consult with a dock services professional to ensure that the structure can support the new load and space requirements.
Leaks and Cracks
When water seeps into cracks in the dock and the foundation, it can cause severe damage to the structure that needs to be addressed immediately. The best way to repair this is by having a professional come in and examine the situation. They will be able to tell whether the cracks are a simple fix or if a more extensive rebuild is needed. In most cases, it is necessary to have the entire foundation of the dock re-floated and anchored down properly.
The deterioration of the foundation can be very dangerous as it affects the overall stability of the dock. A slight nudge can send the entire structure crashing down into the water. Fortunately, there are several steps that can be taken to repair the foundation before it is too late. For example, it may be necessary to replace the screws and bolts with long-lasting marine grade hardware that is more resistant to corrosion in rough waters. It is also important to inspect the metal components of the dock for signs of rust. These can be treated with rust inhibitors and cleaned with a metal polish to prevent further corrosion.
Another common problem is that wood will rot over time if it is in contact with salt water. It is important to inspect the dock regularly for rotting areas and have any rotted wood replaced with new boards. This can be done easily if it is caught early, before the problem escalates.
Keeping up with regular maintenance and inspections will catch many problems before they become serious issues. This will save you money on repairs, and ensure that your dock is safe for use. Be sure to check it frequently for splinters, cracks, warped boards, and any other damages that can be easily repaired. In addition, be sure to inspect the foundation and floats of the dock and have any necessary repairs made as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your family and friends safe on the lake.
Insects
While docks might help us access the water, they also create an environment where unwanted pests thrive. Whether it’s spider webs that impede the use of your boat dock, or arachnids that mar the gelcoat on your watercraft, these pests aren’t welcome on any vessel.
Fortunately, there are ways to keep these unwanted guests at bay. You can start by choosing environmentally friendly cleaning products. For example, a solution of three parts olive oil to one part white vinegar can remove tough stains from wooden docks, while a paste of baking soda and water can remove minor messes.
Another way to prevent pests is by regularly removing webs and other hiding spots from your boat dock. You can also plant flowers that attract beneficial insects, such as marigolds and sunflowers. Alternatively, you can use an automatic misting system from Bugs Be Gone to control spiders and other bugs on your dock.
A final way to reduce pests is by avoiding unnecessary chemical spraying. This can be particularly important when working in a sensitive habitat, such as a natural shoreline. For instance, spraying chemicals can easily drift into the water and contaminate it. In addition, chemicals can be stored in the fat of aquatic organisms. When a bird or mammal eats that animal, the contaminants are passed on to its offspring and so on, creating a biomagnification effect.
As a result, it’s important to carefully consider the potential impact of a dock restoration project before applying any chemical pesticides or herbicides. Additionally, it’s a good idea to consult with local experts before spraying to ensure that the chemicals are safe for your ecosystem and the aquatic life it supports.
Fiddle dock (Bartramia triculata) is an excellent choice for boat dock restoration projects because of its ability to stabilize dunes, increase wildlife habitat, and reduce erosion. It also provides a great food source for birds, mammals, and butterflies, and it’s easy to grow from seed or cuttings. Its versatility and beauty make it a valuable ornamental and a useful species for wetland restoration. For these reasons and others, we encourage you to give this beautiful flower a try on your own property!