The basics of keeping your boat docks in excellent shape

by | Apr 13, 2017 | Construction and Maintenance

If you are a boat owner, one of your bigger worries will be the dock. Thankfully for most people, most lakeside properties in the market come equipped with docks. Even then, these docks require occasional repair and maintenance to remain as picturesque as most lakeside property owners want. Keeping docks in shape requires the following;

The wood
Most companies will tell the property owner to use treated wood for their dock, which is well and good. However, many people find themselves tempted to stock up on sealants and other lumber treatment products. This should not be the case. Applying sealants will only have you in a cycle where you will likely be forced to be applying sealants every six or so months. Remember, though, that when treated, timber can handle water just fine and will dry out naturally, a condition which enhances its longevity. With sealants applied, after a while it will allow some water in, but the sealant will not allow water out entirely.

Flotation barrels and chains
Floating docks can be as problematic as they are simple. One of the keys to their maintenance is the floatation barrel. If you have the floating type, then you are in luck. These are also some of the easiest parts to replace. It does not take too long to have them replaced by an expert hand, and will not require tools that are too complex. The maintenance of the chains, however, is slightly more work. Make sure they are properly lubricated in order to have them running smoothly and to prevent the accumulation of dust. Do not forget about the fasteners, which after a while are often the first to deteriorate.  When they wear out, screws and nails tend to fall out, leaving the dock owner none the wiser.

The boards
Those beautiful Boardwalks and Beach Access in Charleston, SC do not come easy. With repeated use, they tend to splinter, which runs the risk of causing injuries. Luckily, removal or replacement of old splinters is not too difficult. Sand down any splinters that are underfoot, and run your hand over them to make sure everything is okay.

Work on your docks, seawalls and boardwalk has never been this easy. With Carolina Dock and marine, you get the very best of dock related service in Charleston, SC. Contact us at 843.557.1234.

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