Telltale Signs Your Boat Dock Needs TLC Or Replacement
Do you own a boat dock? If so, you likely have concerns each year about the safety of your dock as well as about knowing when you need to repair or replace it. Professional inspections are the best option for making this determination, but the following are telltale signs that you can use as cues for imminent replacement.
Damaged Foundation
Deteriorating dock foundations are hazardous. This is why it is important to inspect your dock routinely to ensure that the foundation is intact. You should be looking for cracks and warping in the materials. This is the area that is prone to be impacted by erosion.
Rotting Wood
Individuals who own wooden docks can expect to see rotting at some point. As long as the rotting wood does not impact a significant area of the dock, it can likely be repaired. However, it is important not to ignore small areas of rotting wood because the deterioration can spread and make your dock unsafe. If your dock already has a significant amount of rotting wood, it is sensible to get a dock builder to replace the entire dock rather than just the rotting portions.
Significant Rust
Rust is something else that is to be expected. This is because your dock has metal portions that are being exposed to water, even when your dock is not in use. Rust becomes an issue when there is a significant amount of it present on metal parts. Rusted parts can break away from docks, making them unsafe to use. You can reduce the negative impact of rust by routinely inspecting your dock for rusted parts and replacing them before they worsen.
Unstable Posts
Posts must be driven into the ground at a certain level in order for docks to be considered stable. Over time changes in the water, the underlying rock, and the sandbed can make driven posts unstable. Using your deck under these circumstances could result in bodily injuries or damages. If posts cannot be driven into the ground due to natural changes, it is ideal to change to a floating dock, which will not require driven posts.
A dock builder is a good resource to use to determine whether a few repairs can extend the life of your dock. They can also determine if your dock is unsafe and needs to be replaced. If a replacement is needed, they can help you select the best type of dock based on your location and other factors. For example, a composite, floating dock might be a better option than a wooden dock with posts.