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Dock Care

Maintaining a dock is essential to ensure its longevity, safety, and functionality. Regular maintenance can help prevent deterioration, structural damage, and safety hazards. Here are some key maintenance tasks typically required for dock systems:

Winterization

Proper winterization of your dock cannot be overemphasized! We’ve intentionally placed it before anything else because it is the primary factor affecting the lifespan of your dock system. Even though floating docks can be left in the ice for winter, there are still things that must be done to prepare every dock for winter:

All Dock Systems
  1. Before winter, remove any furniture, equipment, structures, or accessories from the dock surface that were not initially designed into the dock.
  2. Disconnect and store removable sections of the dock to prevent damage from ice movement ie: (PWC docks, seasonal boat lifts, ) 
  3. Disconnect your ramp system by taking out all removable deck panels, disconnect the ramp from the fixed structure, and then remove the ramp to be placed on the shore deck, dock, or somewhere safe for winter. (Even land-on ramps should be removed for the winter to protect from possible damage) 
  4. Install dock visibility markers at the ends of the dock system such as, orange pylons, flashing lights, or reflective markers that would make seeing the dock system easy once it is covered in snow. 

Floating Dock Systems
  1. Disconnect your ramp system by taking out all the removable boards and then remove the ramp and place it on the shore deck or somewhere safe for winter.
  2. Loosen all anchor chain approx. 12”-24” (based on expected water fluctuations) to allow dock movement in the ice.
  3. Fasten a “safety” line back to shore (in the event of a large water fluctuation this will help prevent the dock system from “lifting” the anchors and floating away)
  4. Ensure the dock pontoons will not come into contact with the lakebed, rocks, or sharp surfaces.
Fixed/Permanent Dock Systems
  1. Protect the dock pilings, bracing and sub-structure from ice damage by installing ice protection measures, such as bubblers, de-icers, or internal heating coils.
  2. Install all required “Open Water” signs and lighting based on current regulations, by-laws, and Transport Canada procedures.

Summerization

As you prepare for summertime use, you will do the opposite of what you did for winterization (remove/disconnect de-icing elements, re-attach ramps, re-tension chains/cables, etc)

Floating Dock Systems Note: It is very important to properly tension dock chains/cables every year based on the anticipated seasonal water levels. Monitor tension throughout the season to ensure optimal performance of the floating dock system. ((too much tension can cause short jerky motion or cause the chains/cables to pull down on the dock system, while too much slack can cause excessive and sloppy movement))


Dock System Maintenance

Regular Cleaning:

  • Sweep or rinse the dock surfaces to remove dirt, debris, leaves, and other organic matter. This promotes proper drainage and can prevent staining.
  • Use a mild detergent or specialized material cleaner and a soft-bristle brush to gently scrub the dock surface. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the surface material.

Prevent Vegetation Growth:

  • Keep vegetation and plant growth around the dock system components trimmed to prevent moisture accumulation, obstructed access, and potential damage to the structure.
  • Remove algae, moss, and other vegetation from the dock surface to prevent slips and falls.

Inspect and Repair Structural Components:

  • Regularly inspect the dock structure, including piles, beams, joists, decking, and hardware.
  • Look for signs of wear, damage, corrosion, rot, or decay. Check for loose or missing fasteners, cracked boards, and deteriorating wood.
  • Repair or replace any damaged or deteriorated structural components, including support posts, beams, joists, and decking.
  • Secure loose or sagging boards, tighten fasteners, and reinforce connections as needed to ensure stability and safety.

Prevent Pest Infestation:

  • Take measures to deter pests such as insects, rodents, and marine organisms that may cause damage the dock system over time.
  • Consider using non-toxic pest repellents, installing screens or barriers, or implementing other pest control methods as needed.

Protective Coatings (for cedar only):

  • Apply a cedar-specific protective coating or sealant to protect against moisture, UV rays, fungal growth, and insect damage.
  • Reapply sealant or stain as needed according to the manufacturer's instructions to maintain the integrity and appearance of the wood.

Inspect Electrical Systems:

  • If the dock is equipped with electrical systems, such as lighting, outlets, or boat lifts, inspect them regularly for signs of damage, corrosion, or malfunction.
  • Ensure that electrical connections are secure, wiring is intact, and fixtures are in good working condition. Always hire a licensed electrician for any repairs or upgrades.

By performing these maintenance tasks regularly and proactively addressing any issues that arise, you can prolong the lifespan, safety, and functionality of your dock system, ensuring years of enjoyment on your waterfront property.

If you have any other dock care questions, we can be reached at 705-816-2245 or info@canadianwaterfrontservices.com