By Hank Ozzy
The floating dock is a great asset to anyone who enjoys waterfront living and boating. They are a great way to access the water and enhance the beauty of the shoreline. They can also be used for swimming, fishing or just relaxing on the water. Floating docks, just like any other structure that is exposed to the weather, require regular maintenance in order to stay functional, safe and attractive. You can extend the life span of your dock by taking a few proactive measures.
1. Regularly inspect your home or business
Routine inspections will help you prevent dock degradation. Take a walk around the floating dock at least once a week and check for signs of wear such as loose boards or rusty hardware. Also, look out for any algae growth, cracked floatation device, or cracked floatation device. Be alert to any strange sounds, movements, or instability. Early detection of minor problems can prevent them from turning into major repairs in the future.
2. Cleaning Your Docks Seasonally
Cleaning your floating dock will not only enhance its appearance, but it will also protect it from damage over the long term. Dirt, bird droppings, and algae can cause materials to degrade over time. Scrub the surface with a soft bristle brush, mild detergent, or dock-safe cleaning solution. Power washers can be used to remove stubborn stains and mold. However, they should only be used with caution as high pressure settings could damage wood or composite material.
It is important to clean the docks at the start and end of every season and even more often during the peak months. This is especially true in humid and rainy climates, where mildew and mold are more prevalent.
3. Protect and check the Floatation System
Your dock will remain stable and level if you use a floatation system. If your dock is using foam blocks, plastic barrels, or air cells, make sure they are not damaged, waterlogged, deteriorating, or punctured. You may need to replace or repair a dock float if you notice that your dock is leaning in one place.
You should also check periodically for any marine growth around or on the flotation devices. This can cause them to become heavier and reduce their buoyancy.
4. Check and tighten hardware
Over time, exposure to water or weather can cause bolts, nuts and brackets to loosen. All hardware that connects your dock sections, anchors, or attachments should be inspected periodically. To prevent corrosion and rust, use marine-grade stainless or galvanized steel hardware.
To maintain structural integrity of the dock and to prevent accidents, immediately replace any worn or broken parts.
5. Maintenance of Decking Materials
The maintenance requirements for different decking materials, such as wood, composite or plastic, are unique. Every 1-2 years, wooden docks need to be stained or sealed against insects, UV rays and moisture. Replace warped or cracked wood and sand down any rough patches or splinters.
Check for cracks and brittleness in composite or plastic decking. Clean regularly to prevent fading or staining. For safety, anti-slip mats or coatings can be applied to areas with high traffic or in wet conditions.
6. Protect Your Dock from Storm Damage
The ice and high winds can cause floating docks to break. Protect your dock from storms or in the off-season.
- All loose items such as ladders, bumpers or accessories should be secured.
- Check and reinforce anchor chains or lines.
- If extreme weather is predicted, consider storing and detaching your dock. This is especially important in cold climates when ice could damage the structure.
7. Adjust for seasonal changes in water level
It’s important to keep track of how the changes in water levels affect dock position and accessibility. Make sure that ramps and gangways are easily adjusted and the dock is kept aligned with safety and security as water levels change.
Floating docks are convenient, enjoyable, and offer a closer connection with the water. However, they require regular maintenance. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning, inspections and seasonal preparation, can help you extend the life of your dock and prevent expensive repairs. You will also enjoy hassle-free, safe access to the water. It only takes a little care throughout the year to protect your dock and enhance your waterfront experience.
This post was written by a professional at Supreme Marine Floating Docks. Supreme Marine Floating Docks is dedicated to providing top-quality floating docks and marine accessories that combine durability, innovation, and superior performance. While we are a new brand, our team brings over 50 years of combined industry experience, making us a trusted name in the marine world. We are passionate about designing and delivering products that meet the highest standards, ensuring reliability and longevity in all marine environments. Whether for residential, commercial, or recreational use, our docks are crafted with precision and care, setting a new benchmark in the industry. At Supreme Marine, we don’t just build docks—we create lasting solutions.
