Even the most well-constructed dock will need repair at some point. Regular inspection can help identify and treat problems before they get out of hand.
A dock inspection will examine the wooden planks and railings that make up the dock itself, as well as the frame, for rust or damage. Click Dock Repair to learn more.
Floating docks are constantly subjected to rough water pressure and saltwater exposure, which can damage their structure over time. Inspecting the dock regularly is important, so any damage can be repaired before it escalates into bigger issues. The first step is to evaluate the level of damage and decide what steps are needed to repair it. This may include taking out a damaged float or replacing it altogether. In any case, it’s important to use quality materials, such as foam-filled dock floats, that are designed for rough atmospheric conditions and marine environments.
It’s also important to wear the right protective gear and work in a safe environment when performing floating dock repair. Make sure that any tools and materials are arranged in an orderly fashion to avoid accident or injury. Additionally, let people who are using the dock know that you’re working on it so they can avoid getting in your way or disturbing your repairs.
Another common problem with floats is their deflation, which can be caused by a variety of factors. Exposure to high heat, for example, can cause the floats to expand and contract in different directions. This can weaken the material and cause air leaks.
The best way to prevent this from happening is by making sure that the floats are properly installed. This means ensuring that they are fastened to the existing structure with marine-grade bolts and nuts. Moreover, it’s crucial to choose the right screws and nuts, as these can significantly impact the durability of the floats and the overall structure of the floating dock.
A good floating dock repair strategy is to focus on the most vulnerable parts of the structure, such as the floats and the deck panels. In any case, it’s important that the deck is secured with screws and nails that are resistant to corrosion, especially if the floating dock will be used in harsh atmospheric or saltwater environments. It’s also a good idea to use stainless steel hardware when replacing or installing new deck panels. This will ensure that the panels can withstand rough weather and heavy usage.
Leaks and Cracks
Leaks and cracks in the concrete of your loading dock can result from a variety of factors. Weathering is one common cause, as rain and other precipitation seeps through the pores of the concrete to weaken it. Over time, this can lead to damage and eventually structural failure.
Another major cause of leaks and cracks is poor maintenance. When small cracks and potholes go unrepaired, they can grow larger over time and compromise the structure of your dock. This can create safety hazards for workers and equipment, as well as increase repair costs.
Other potential causes of damage include human error and the use of improper equipment. Drivers and operators should be trained to follow proper safety protocols to avoid accidents that can damage your dock. In addition, the use of equipment like forklifts and pallet jacks can cause damage to the dock surface.
If the lip extension of your dock leveler is uneven, it can create a tripping hazard and even damage the trailer. This issue can often be prevented by regularly inspecting the hinges and pins that connect the lip extension to the dock leveler. Ensure these are free of wear and tear, and replace any worn or damaged parts immediately.
Polyurethane grout injection is a fast and effective way to repair concrete dock cracks and voids. This process involves drilling holes at regular intervals along the length of each crack or void. Then, the polyurethane grout is injected through the holes until it begins to flow out of adjacent ports. This method is also cost-effective and can be completed in a variety of weather conditions.
Deck Panels
Deck panels, or precast concrete slabs, are an alternative to traditional wood or steel beams. They can be used on both new construction and rehabilitation projects. The panels are cast in a factory and then delivered to the site, ready for installation. They are generally stronger and more cost effective than traditional wood or steel decking, however they do require periodic replacement due to deterioration.
Wood Damage
Wood will inevitably be damaged over time by exposure to the elements, use and natural aging. Inspecting the deck on a regular basis and regularly applying a quality waterproof sealer can help slow the degradation process.
Water Damage
Moisture accumulation, often resulting from poor drainage, can contribute to sagging and wood rot or termite infestation. Wood rot and termite infestation can be treated with chemical treatments or by replacing the affected boards.
Loose Nails, Screws and Bolts
Constant use and weather fluctuations can cause fasteners to loosen. Regular inspections can help catch loose fasteners before they become a safety hazard or damage the structural integrity of the deck.
Joist Blocks
Blocks installed between joists can help reduce deflection and prevent an individual joist made of unstable lumber from bowing up or down, causing a hump or dip on the deck surface. They can also improve a deck’s overall stiffness.
Cracking of Deck Panels
Although not common, some cracking can occur during the handling and shipment of deck panels. The panels can be designed to be crack-free by using transverse prestressing. The deck panels can also be connected to the girders using longitudinal post tensioning. This approach is particularly useful for continuous-span bridges and integral connections in high seismic regions.
Deck panels are available in several different forms, including a type F deck (similar to a traditional RC slab), type A deck and a type B deck. The type B deck is the most commonly used. Depending on the application, the type of deck can be modified to meet specific design requirements such as roadway crowns. Roadway crowns can be incorporated into the deck panel by using a special form or they can be cast into the panel during fabrication. The latter can be a more cost-effective option when fabrication is done on a large scale, but it requires that the panel be cut to accommodate the roadway crown.
Supports
While docks are often considered an afterthought of waterbodies, their regular maintenance ensures that they remain a safe and convenient feature for boating, fishing, swimming, and socializing. Even so, all docks eventually require repair or replacement. Fortunately, understanding when it’s time for a full replacement can save money and prevent dangerous conditions.
The frame of a dock is crucial to its safety and stability, so it’s essential to keep an eye out for any signs of damage to the structure. This can include noticeable bends in the frame or cracks, especially in metal frames. In addition, look for signs of rot or decay in wood frames. If these issues aren’t repaired quickly, they may compromise the integrity of the entire dock.
If the foundation of your dock is in a state of severe deterioration, it’s usually time for full replacement. This is because a damaged foundation can make your dock unstable and dangerous, which can lead to injuries for anyone who uses it. It’s usually due to years of exposure to ocean waves and underwater creatures that cause this issue, but in some cases it can be caused by a major accident or other event.
Wood and water aren’t a natural combination, so it’s essential to inspect your dock regularly for any signs of rot or decay. Small areas of rot are usually treatable by sanding them, but if the rotting has reached any major load-bearing parts of the dock then it’s best to replace it instead.
Another important aspect of dock repair is replacing any hardware that has been damaged or rusted over time. This can include bolts, screws, and other fasteners that connect various components of the dock. These components can be easy to fix with a little bit of effort and the right tools, but it’s also worth having a supply of replacement parts available for emergencies.
As you’re assessing the condition of your dock, it’s a good idea to compile a list of all the materials and tools needed for repairs or replacements. This will help you determine what kind of lumber, screws, or bolts to purchase in advance, and it will ensure that you have everything you need on hand when the repairs are underway.
