If you own boats, you already know they require a lot of care and maintenance. But besides the boats, you also need to take care of the dock itself. Here, your boat deck is what serves as an entryway to the water. They not only offer convenient water access but also ensure a secure home for boats. Not to mention, they also shield your boats from harsh weather, waves, and currents. This is why you should take the time to keep your dock in a well-maintained position.
Why is dock maintenance important?
You might not realize this, but docks are an essential part of the nautical lifestyle. It is quite crucial to keep up with the good health of your boats. Keep in mind the safety of everyone on the boat depends entirely on a well-kept dock. It will offer a safe and sturdy place to enter and exit the boat. Now, when you have broken docks, it can cause falling, tripping, or even collapsing. This is why regular maintenance is extremely important.
When you maintain your docks properly it will help increase the safety and will also prolong the life span of the dock. So, if you are ready for it, consider reading ahead to get a clear idea about the tips that you can follow for proper maintenance.
Tips for dock maintenance
- Clean your dock
You might say this is the most basic thing you can do, but wait, there is something to be clear of. You should never clean your dock with a pressure washer. It can chip away the deck material and also cost spinsters in the wood. Instead, it’s always better to use a garden hose with environmentally friendly mild soap to remove any algae or debris. Also you should always give your dock a thorough cleaning once a year. Make sure you aim to inspect for damage and also clean stains.
- Regularly inspect for required dock repair
Instead of regretting later, it’s always better to keep a check on the health of your dock. You need to look for signs on the structure, including rusty hardware or damaged handrails. Make sure all the screws, bolts, and nails are tied and not corroded. If you find any issue here, it’s always better to call professionals for dock repair service. You need to follow a good habit of checking your docks quarterly. This way, you can avoid any significant issues that could cause a lot of trouble later on.
- Sand and stain in your dock
When you are doing regular inspections of your dock, make sure you look for areas that require some care. Afterward, you can sand and stain the docks to repair any loose parts. Keep in mind you should always sand the dock before staining. If you don’t follow this, then the stain will not adhere properly and can easily chip off.
In addition to this, most boaters also use a sealant on the stain for better protection. You can also consider installing bumpers and rub rails to the edges of the dock. This will prevent dock damage from boats and other objects.
- Cover it up in winter month
After you are done enjoying the warmer months and improving the functionality and appearance of your dock, it’s always good to cover it up for the winter. To do so, make sure you cover the wood with a tarp or plastic. Here, make sure to secure it properly so that it does not get blown away in harsh weather conditions.
- Maintain dock lines
It is always better to invest in good protection for dock lines. It is great for ensuring your boat stays attached to the docks, especially during the harsh winter conditions. No doubt you should replace them every 2 to 3 years, but you should also consider using specific dock lines for the winter time.
- Get professional help
When it comes to boats or docks, it’s always better to get a professional who knows the maintenance job properly. This is especially true for older people who cannot manage it on their own. Even if you can, getting professional assistance will make a huge difference. This way, you will be able to spend your time on other things that are important while the experts are there to take care of something that you love.
Conclusion
No doubt, dock maintenance is quite important, which is now clear. So, if you are ready to get professional help for dock repair maintenance services, consider trusting CVS Restorations. They have skilled professionals who know the job well. No matter the type of services you are looking for, they can easily provide you with the best. You can consult with them anytime you require the services. They will reach the location timely and complete the job with proper care and precision. Not to mention, you will be getting affordable services with them.