Important Dock Repairs for the Boating Season

Like most boat owners, your excitement before the boating season is most likely palpable. While it brings forth a lot of anticipation, you should conduct some dock repairs for a seamless season. Boat docks brave harsh elements, ranging from extremely heated sun rays and beating lake waves during storms to constant contact with moisture.

As such, without proper maintenance, the appearance and resilience of your previously sturdy boat dock start deteriorating. If left unchecked, extensive deterioration of boat docks makes them unsafe for docking. Fortunately, conducting regular repairs and maintenance can save complimentary replacement. Below are a few important dock repairs to consider before any boating season.

1. Dock Piling Repairs

Dock pilings are among the essential components of a boat dock. Therefore, you should inspect and repair dock pilings before the season kicks in. Piling repair is especially important for boat owners who use wood pilings on their docks.

Constant contact with water predisposes wood pilings to rot. Marine organisms also chew wood. If the condition of your piling has deteriorated, a wood bumper can provide an additional layer of protection. Fortunately, learning how to repair dock pilings is not challenging.

Nonetheless, you should remember several things when repairing or replacing dock pilings. First, you should ensure that you’ve chosen the correct size. You should also account for dock piling height and width of dock surface, slope, and depth of the water during low tides. Similarly, remember to install dock pilings in pairs if you are replacing your old pilings.

As for the costs, replacing dock pilings can prove quite expensive. However, the general costs vary based on dock replacement needs and location. On average, dock pile replacement ranges from $200 to $600 per pile. Costs also depend on the amount of labor required and the contracted company.

2. Replace Dock Hardware

Dock hardware, specifically the screws, support braces, and corner brackets, rust and weaken over time. After a few seasons, your boat might come across compromised parts, such as stripped screws, which require replacement. Like dock pilings, replacing and repairing dock hardware isn’t challenging. You should only ensure that you purchase the correct materials that fit. For non-DIY enthusiasts, hiring a professional dock installation and repair company is prudent.

3. Replace Dock Bumpers

Bumpers act as fenders for boat docks. They reduce or soften the impact when the boat hits the dock, preventing holes, scratches, and other damages. Fixing boat damage is expensive and time-consuming, making it prudent to fix bumpers. Most dock bumpers can last for several years depending on their material make.

However, exposure to harsh environments weakens them, making them susceptible to damage. You should replace your dock bumper immediately if you notice cracks and dents. Like dock pilings and hardware, you can replace them yourself or hire professionals.

4. Replace the Damaged Sections

After a lengthy off-period, it shouldn’t be surprising to find damaged parts of your wooden boat dock. Fortunately, damaged sections don’t necessarily mean replacing the entire dock. Depending on the extent of the damage, you can save a lot by replacing the affected parts. The best way is to purchase a dock panel and fix it on your dock. Finding panels that can match your dock isn’t difficult. However, you should consider replacing the entire boat dock if multiple sections sustain extensive damage.

Conclusion

Dock piling is a crucial component of your boat dock or pier. As such, you should adhere to strict maintenance and repair schedules to maintain its integrity. Maintaining the excellent state of dock piling also increases your property value and marketability. Tonka Built offers exceptional dock installation, repairs, and maintenance services. Call us today!