Docks take a beating. There’s no just getting around it, and without routine maintenance and some general “freshening up” from time to time, your dock may become dilapidated and potentially unsafe.
Breathe new life into your dock, increase its longevity, and keep it looking sharp by trying some of these easy dock upgrades, many of which can be done as a weekend DIY.
Do it Yourself Dock Upgrades
- Start with your decking – Maybe all you need is a fresh coat of stain to make your wood dock look as good as new, or instead, you might be interested in replacing your decking with more weather-resistant materials. At least once a year, check your decking for wear, tear and rotting. Damaged wood can pose safety hazards. If you unearth more extensive damage as you begin digging into the project, it may be worth starting fresh on a new dock design.
- Evaluate your dock accessories – Even the most durable materials eventually need replacing. Check the shape of your dock accessories and consider whether to add any new ones. Is your dock bumper still in good shape? How about your cleats and dock lines? Investing in solid-cast aluminum materials will improve the longevity and durability of your dock accessories, which means less maintenance for you down the road.
- Consider other dock upgrades – In addition to making sure your existing dock hardware is still safe and functional, maybe it’s time to add that bench you’ve always wanted or install lighting to illuminate your waterfront at night. You could also consider enhancing it with improved accessibility features for people with disabilities.
Your dock should be safe, functional and a place of enjoyment for family and friends. If you have questions about upgrading your dock or the best ways to maintain and care for your dock, contact us at RDS Dock Hardware anytime.