Having to repair and replace your boat dock after years of use is expected over time, regardless of the material it is made from. Whether your dock is aluminum or wooden, determining if it is unfit for use is paramount to ensuring your safety as well as the safety of your neighbors. After all, your dock is where many boating adventures have begun over the lifetime of you owning it, so you want to keep it in tip-top condition to enjoy over the next several years to come. Boat Lift Warehouse understands that your boats and boat lifts depend on a sturdy dock to function properly. Docks that hit a certain stage of deterioration can be dangerous and unreliable so that one bad step could end in injury or even death. Not sure when is the right time to replace your dock? Here are the 5 telltale signs that your dock needs to be replaced:
Dock Foundation Is Damaged – If you find that areas of your dock are cracking, investigate further to see if a larger issue is the culprit. If you find that the underwater foundation is damaged, your dock should be replaced.
Rusted Supports And Platforms – If your boat dock has metal components in the supports, platforms, or where your boat lifts are mounted, corrosive salt water will eat away at the metal over time. While small rust spots can often be easily repaired, rust that is prevalent or spreads to multiple areas means your dock requires a replacement.
Warps And Cracks In Dock Supports – Currents and waves can cause your dock to warp over time due to sustained pressure. Constant pressure can even lead to a break or crack in the supports. Other factors such as collisions can also lead to cracking and warping. Depending on your dock’s material, a few minor cracks in a small area of your dock can be repaired by replacing individual boards or beams. On the other hand, if major load-bearing areas are experiencing breakage in multiple places, your dock will need to be replaced to ensure its safety and structural integrity.
Wood Is Noticeably Rotting – Wooden boat docks are prone to rot. If you find the wood is rotting in multiple areas, it’s time for a replacement. It is not uncommon for fungus from the water to create dry rot and decay within wooden components. Sometimes, repairing the damage with new lumber can be a simple fix — if the decay is contained to small areas. However, when the rot shows up in several areas of your dock at the same time, a replacement is warranted.
Loose Decking Boards – Loose decking boards are easy to spot and will create an unsafe situation for anyone walking on the dock. Because you walk, sit, and spend lots of time on your dock, it’s imperative that you address any loose sections immediately. A few loose boards may not require a complete replacement, but more extensive damage could mean it’s time to replace your dock.
Boat Lifts That Will Last
Once you have repaired or replaced your dock, you will certainly have peace of mind knowing that you, your family, and friends will all be safe when in use. If you also want to replace your boat lifts, contact Boat Lift Warehouse today. We offer a huge selection of boathouse lifts, pile or dock mounted lifts, free-standing lifts, PWC lifts, and davits, to cater to your specific needs that will last for years of family fun!
