Extend the Life of Your Dock

Extend the Life of Your Dock

 

The Importance of Dock Maintenance

Boat docks are vulnerable to many environmental factors that can affect their condition and lifespan. For example, dirt and debris that collect on your dock can stain the deck if left untreated. Algae and barnacles can also grow on your dock as it sits in the water. Regular dock maintenance helps you maintain the integrity and safety of your dock for years to come. Maintenance also helps prevent damage to your dock that may result in necessary repairs later down the line.
A floating dock offers convenience and versatility. As a bonus, Kroeger Marine docks are also easy to maintain. While our docks are extremely durable and built to withstand heavy use, some cleaning and maintenance can go a long way in helping to preserve your dock.

 

Spring cleaning isn’t just for your house!

Your dock is used just as frequently as your boat is. Docks also need a bit of TLC as the boating season swings back into action.

An annual spring cleaning and inspection of your dock is a great way to ensure that it remains well-maintained.

Learn how to maintain and care for your floating dock through cleaning, proper storage, inspections and other maintenance tips you can use to extend the life of your dock.

 

3 Things You Can Do to Extend the Life of Your Dock

1) Conduct Regular Inspections

2) Perform Routine Cleaning

3) Consider Resealing/Re-Staining

 

Conduct Regular Inspections

You should be inspecting the entire structure for loose boards, nails, and bolts. Any boards that are rotting, dried out, or have excessive splinters should be replaced. Highly corroded and rusted hardware, such as nails, screws, and bolts should be replaced as well. Loose nails and bolts need to be tightened and screwed down.

 

Perform Routine Cleaning

Wood materials are prone to collecting mineral buildup, stains, and mildew, it’s important to give the dock a thorough cleaning by using an environmentally friendly dock cleaner. The type of solution you should use to clean your dock depends on what material your dock is made from.

 

If your dock can withstand it, pressure washing can help flush out and dissolve hard to remove stains and other build up. Power washing a dock should be done carefully. You have to consider the shape of the wand and pressure valve so that the integrity of the wood is not compromised during the process.

 

Consider a Reseal

Once you have inspected and cleaned your boating dock, you might want to reseal it as a preventative measure to protect the surfaces from outdoor detriments. Look for a sealer that contains ingredients that actively ward off mildew. Furthermore, it’s crucial to use a sealer that will not harm your lake’s ecosystem.

 

Are you looking for some help with this? At Kroeger Marine, we have over 37 years of experience in building and maintaining boat docks. Contact our Service Department at service@kroegermarine.com for assistance with your dock inspection, cleaning, and oiling.