If you have a waterfront property, you likely want to ensure that the property is always in good condition. One way to do this is to improve the appearance and safety of the dock. A safe dock that looks good can create an outdoor space to do lots of activities with your family and friends.
The guide below outlines tips that can help you enhance the safety and appearance of your dock.
Have Dock Accessories
Dock accessories can add visual appeal or enhance the functions of the dock. Add dock accessories depending on what you will use your dock for and what the size of your dock is. For example, if your dock is for recreational purposes, add a gazebo for sun protection, as well as chairs and tables for your guests to sit on.
Also, add some LED lights to light your deck at night and prevent injuries from happening, as well as a ladder to help you climb up to your dock when you come from the lake. A dock box will also help you store and organize your valuables, such as towels. Other accessories you could add include bumpers, handrails, or solar panels.
Repaint or Restain Your Dock
Sometimes, you only need to repaint or restain your dock to give the dock a completely new look. Repainting helps to stop any corrosion and rusting to metals in the dock, while restaining protects your dock from harsh weather elements.
Also, ensure you use high-quality, non-slip, and non-toxic paints and stains to avoid any injuries at the dock, whether to humans or pets.
Install a Dock Bumper
Dock bumpers are devices that attach to your dock to absorb impact shock. Dock bumpers will help protect your boat from impacts and dents from the boat repeatedly hitting the dock while docking. Have bumpers where you will anchor your boat. And when the existing bumpers wear out, replace them as fast as possible.
Bumpers in good condition can help you avoid costly repairs. In addition, you can customize dock bumpers depending on the size of your boat and the location of your dock. For example, if you have a big boat, it could potentially have a more significant impact on the dock compared to a smaller boat.
Thus, you could use a bumper made from heavier material such as rubber or polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
Secure Your Boat to the Dock
Dock lines and cleats can help you temporarily tie up your boat. They ensure that you will not have to keep lifting your boat out of the water whenever you want to take a short break.
Dock lines are nylon ropes that keep your boat in place at the dock. The best way to choose the size of your dock lines for your dock is to consider how much exposure your waterfront has to currents, waves, and wind, as well as what the size of your boat is.
A dock cleat is another device to secure your dock lines so your boat does not move away. The size of your dock cleats depends on the size of the dock lines you use. The materials for dock cleats are wood, aluminum, nylon, galvanized steel, and stainless steel. The most recommended cleat type is stainless steel because stainless steel is aesthetically appealing and strong and does not rust.
Make a habit of checking for any wear and tear on your dock lines. Regular checking of your dock lines will help you identify any damaged lines and replace them in advance — not only when you want to use the ropes.
If you want to add more life to your dock by enhancing its functionality and appearance,
get in touch with us today for quality marine services.
