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Why regular dock piling repair and maintenance is important

Amara Rocio • Sep 23, 2022

The dock is valuable for your waterfront property as it optimizes the benefits of living beside
a water body. For example, it serves as a place where you can anchor your boat, prepare for
a swim, or clean the fishes you catch.

You thus probably want to keep its surface clean and in good condition to serve your
purpose.

However, did you know that the dock pilings also require proper maintenance?
Pilings are the foundations that keep a dock from collapsing into the water or being pushed
by the waves. Thus giving reasons to keep them in good condition for years to come.
This post explains these reasons for proper Dock piling repair and maintenance.

Why Dock Pilings Require Proper Maintenance and Repair

Dock pilings face constant exposure to harsh elements that may cause damage, like waves,
extreme heat, rain, snow, and marine organisms. Proper maintenance and repair offer these
significant benefits to submerged piles:

1. Retain Structure Stability
Regular check-ups and maintenance ensure the foundations still stand firm under the deck.
Remember that particular damage may affect the piles' stability, causing the structure to
move along with the waves or when you walk on it.
Immediately repair or replace the foundations if you notice your waterfront structure has
become too shaky to prevent further damage.

2. Prevent Collapse
Proper maintenance can help you immediately spot and fix damage before they grow and
cause accidents.
As mentioned earlier, the piles naturally sustain damage from different factors. These
damages may start small but could grow and cause the structure to collapse. The collapse
may even result in devastating accidents if people were on the dock at the time.

3. Make the Dock Last Longer
Keeping the foundations in good condition with proper maintenance prolongs the life of the
entire marine structure. It could thus serve your waterfront property for decades without
requiring significant replacements in just a few years.

4. Avoid Unexpected Huge Expenses
Regular foundation repair and maintenance help you avoid significant damage that could
require intensive fixes or replacements. You can thus prevent the sudden hassles and
expenses these major repairs may bring, especially when the damage causes structural
collapse.

Dock Piling Repair and Maintenance Tips to Remember

Keeping the pilings in good condition proves helpful for your entire waterfront structure. And
here´s how you should maintain and repair your dock foundation:

1. Regularly Clean the Pilings
First, clean the piles annually to minimize wear and tear. Remember these points as a
general guide:

  • Remove algae, grime, and slime with a stiff brush and baking soda solutions
  • Use a putty knife to scrape off marine organisms like vegetation and barnacles
  • Remove rust on metal parts with the use of sandpaper and vinegar

Moreover, inspect while cleaning the foundation to spot any damage immediately.

2. Properly Fix Any Damage You Notice

As mentioned above, you must immediately repair the damage to prevent it from causing
further problems. For example, immediately replace loose and rusty nails and screws to
maintain the foundation's stability.
Remember also to use appropriate materials when repairing marine structures. For instance,
use marine grout to seal cracks on concrete piles to ensure the fix will last long underwater.
3. Apply Protective Features

Wrap the piles with sleeves and caps to protect them from harsh elements and avoid
damage. Also, replace this protective equipment every few years or when they acquire
significant wear and tear.
Moreover, you can also place bumpers or old tires at the sides of the dock to prevent
damage from boat impact.
4. Consult a Professional Marine Contractor
You can handle simple maintenance tasks like cleaning and replacing old screws.  However,
you need the help of a marine contractor for complex repairs, especially if you have to
replace the piles.
You may consult them just to get advice like knowing the best materials to repair particular
piling damage. However, it is better to hire their complete assistance to handle repairs or
replacements for the best outcomes.

Hire an Expert Marine Contractor for Reliable Dock

Piling Repair Service
Proper piling maintenance and repair requires effort but will significantly benefit your dock. It
keeps the structure in excellent condition so you can enjoy your waterfront property for a
long time.
So, remember the tips above to guide you in maintaining your marine structure's foundation.
Consulting a professional dock piling repair and maintenance service also helps you get
high-quality results.

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