Category: Deck Building

How to Avoid Common Dock Repair Problems

Frankie Sharp Deck Building , , , , , ,

A dock is a structure that allows boats to be docked or moored. Like other structures, docks need to be repaired regularly to prevent structural damage and maintain safety.

Dock Repair

During routine inspections, owners should check for issues like foundation cracks or frame damage. Repairing these problems quickly can save money and time. Contact Lake Norman Dock Builder for professional help.

Wood rot is one of the most common problems that docks face. This is a fungal disease that eats away at the wood, and it can be difficult to spot in its early stages. It is also hard to repair and may require replacement of parts of your dock. If a large area of your dock has rot, you should call in a professional to assess the damage and determine the best course of action for repair or replacement.

While it is impossible to prevent wood rot completely, you can take steps to slow down the process. You can do this by regularly cleaning your wooden dock with an environmentally friendly cleaner, and resealing any boards that have an open end. This will help to keep moisture from penetrating the wood and making it a breeding ground for wet rot fungus.

It is also a good idea to keep a wood filler on hand in case you need to patch up any damaged areas of your dock. These products, which look like cookie dough, are easy to pack into the holes left by rot and will bond tightly. You can find these products online or at any home improvement store. Once the rot is removed and the filler has set, you can sand the surface and paint or stain it to match the rest of your dock.

Another way to slow down the process is by replacing any rotting pieces of your dock immediately. This will avoid the rot from spreading and make the rest of your dock look better.

You should also regularly inspect your dock for cracking or sagging. These signs of deterioration are an indicator that the foundation of your dock is starting to fail, and it will need to be replaced as soon as possible. This could mean piering or polyjacking, both of which should be done by a qualified professional to ensure your dock is safe for boats and people to use for years to come.

Lastly, if you notice any rust on metal components of your dock, this is an indication that they are starting to corrode and need to be replaced. This can be an expensive project, but it is vital to keeping your dock safe for boats and people to use for years.

Cracks and Warps

Whether they’re made of wood, concrete or metal, docks are susceptible to damage caused by waves, currents, wind and other environmental conditions. This can cause cracks, warps and other deterioration that may lead to the need for repairs or even replacement of the entire dock. Oftentimes, these types of issues can be repaired by professionals, but in other cases, it’s simply a matter of replacing the dock entirely to prevent further damage and ensure safety for anyone who uses it.

Regardless of the material used, all docks must be regularly inspected for damage and to determine if it’s time for a repair or replacement. Cracks in the foundation of a dock or on the surface should be addressed immediately as they pose a serious safety hazard. Generally, the foundation of a dock can be repaired fairly easily by adding a new layer of concrete over the existing one to stabilize it. This can be done without disrupting any of the existing structure, which makes it a relatively inexpensive and quick solution to a major problem.

For docks that have wood components, the most common issue is wood rot caused by a fungus that can spread rapidly. In some cases, rotting wood can be repaired by replacing individual boards with new treated wood that has gone through a preservation process. It’s also a good idea to stain any replaced board to match the color of the existing ones on the dock to help conceal the repair work.

Warps and bends in the supports of a dock are caused by constant pressure from waves and currents that can be exacerbated by people running boats into the structure or hitting them while docking. Depending on the severity and where these problems are located, it may be possible to repair or replace individual sections of the dock, but in some cases, the whole structure needs to be replaced.

For metal docks, rust is another common problem that can quickly deteriorate the integrity of the structure. In some cases, rust can be repaired by repainting the affected areas with a high-quality marine paint. However, if rust is spreading to multiple parts of the dock or the foundation, it’s likely time for a replacement.

Rust

Docks are exposed to water, sun, rain and wind on a constant basis. Over time, these elements can cause wear and tear that requires repair. A well-established maintenance plan will keep your loading dock equipment functioning properly and reduce downtime and operational costs.

Dock maintenance includes regular inspections for rot, cracks and rust. Inspecting the structure at the beginning and end of each season is a great way to spot problems early on and address them quickly. A thorough inspection can also detect issues that may be brewing but haven’t yet become noticeable.

Rust is a common issue for docks, especially those that are located in salt water environments. Even galvanized metals can corrode and eventually need to be replaced. If rust is found on major components or a significant amount of the structure, it’s usually best to replace the dock completely to prevent safety risks.

Another sign that a dock is in need of repair is if it begins to sag. A sagging dock can create dangerous conditions for boaters and needs to be repaired as soon as possible to avoid serious structural damage. A sagging dock can also indicate that the foundation of the structure is deteriorating and will need to be replaced.

Wood rot is another common issue for docks and can be particularly harmful to boats. If the rotting is limited to non-load-bearing areas, it’s typically a simple fix that can be done by replacing the affected boards with treated lumber. It’s also a good idea to treat all piers and supports with a waterproof seal to help protect them from the elements and fungal decay.

Other common dock repair issues include a damaged foundation or extensive hurricane damage. A deteriorated foundation can cause the entire structure to collapse, which is a major safety risk for anyone who uses it. A qualified professional can assess the foundation and determine the most effective solution for repairing it, which might include piering or polyjacking. These repairs can be quite costly, but they are necessary to keep the dock safe for boaters and swimmers.

Pile Wrap

Pile wrap protects dock pilings from marine borers, which eat away at the wood and can cause structural problems for the entire dock. Our heavy-duty piling wrap is made of durable materials and affixes to the sides of a pile, shielding it from marine borers. It’s also easy to add to existing docks and can help extend the life of a pile.

The problem is exacerbated by the constant movement of water and the tide, which causes stress on a piling that’s being constantly exposed to the elements. This stress can make it a lot easier for the borers to find a hole in the piling and start eating away at it, which weakens it and makes it more susceptible to other damage.

This is why it’s so important to protect your pilings with either a piling cap or a piling wrap. Piling caps seal the tops of a pile and can be constructed of a variety of materials, including metals like copper, or plastics such as vinyl. While they’re labor-intensive to install, these caps can last for decades and help reduce the need for future repairs.

While the industry standard for new marine piles is to affix a thin black plastic wrap to them, this isn’t a great solution. Because the wrap is nailed to the pile, it’s vulnerable at points where marine growth builds up or as the nails start to rust and the wrap rips over time.

A better solution is to use a system like SnapJacket, which involves “snapping” plastic wraps around a pile and then sealing them with concrete. This is much more effective at protecting a pile from borers and can fortify decayed or eroded wood, too.

This type of repair can save you the cost and hassle of replacing your dock’s pilings in the future, and it’s also a much more environmentally friendly solution than digging out old pilings for replacement. To learn more about how our piling wraps can protect your dock and extend its life-time, contact us today. We’ll gladly answer any questions you have.

Commercial Deck Construction and Repair

Clarence Roy Deck Building , , , , ,

A deck, porch, or patio is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. But, like all outdoor living spaces, they are exposed to natural elements and wear out over time.

Wood decks often require Deck Repair Charleston SC to keep them looking good. For example, mildew can be removed with a bleach and water solution. Also, commercial brighteners that can be applied to the surface are available.

deck repair

When a deck is built, the material used can significantly affect its longevity and maintenance costs. Traditionalists may consider wood the only true decking material, but today’s options are more diverse than ever and offer a range of benefits that many homeowners find attractive.

Composite decking is fast becoming a popular choice for homeowners looking to save time on general maintenance and reduce the amount of chemicals they need to use on their property. Often made from a blend of recycled plastics and wood fibers, composites can look very similar to wooden boards. Composites are also highly durable and resist mold, discoloration, splintering and other issues that can plague traditional wood decks. They are also non-slippery when wet. However, composite decks can be difficult to repair as damaged or stained boards cannot be sanded and refinished.

Pressure-treated wood is another popular option among homeowners. While cost-effective, this type of decking requires constant attention like power washing and a new coat of stain or sealer every three to four years. It is also susceptible to rot, and splinters can be a problem for those who enjoy walking barefoot on their deck.

Other options include cedar and redwood, which are more expensive but have a natural beauty that some homeowners prefer. Exotic hardwoods like ipe (ee-pay) are also available but can be pricey. This type of decking is rot-resistant and grows to a silvery gray color that naturally repels moisture, so it doesn’t require staining.

A few other less common options for decking materials include reclaimed wood, which is a great way to give old lumber new life and can provide a beautiful grain pattern. Rubber decking is another interesting alternative. This type of decking uses a special polymer that mimics the appearance and texture of tires, so it is invulnerable to water.

Some companies have even begun producing decking from plant waste. This decking is also more sustainable, preventing waste from going to landfills.

Commercial buildings have different expectations when it comes to decking. While a residential wood deck is usually attached to a house and therefore needs to comply with local building codes that require it be no more than 30 inches above ground level for firefighters to access, business owners often build their decks to much higher elevations. This can be dangerous for workers who may not be professional carpenters and could result in the deck pulling away from the building or falling down if it isn’t properly secured to the house.

In addition to ensuring that the deck is properly fastened to the house, it also needs to be properly anchored to the foundation or footings so that it can resist uplift forces caused by wind and snow. Depending on the location of the deck and the type of decking material, this can require concrete footings or steel posts. It is also important to ensure that the post caps are securely attached and that the decking is properly nailed down, preventing nail pops.

It is also necessary to have adequate ventilation underneath the deck to prevent moisture accumulation, which can lead to rot or mold growth and degrade the structural integrity of the deck. This is especially important for decks with multiple levels, as well as any areas that are used frequently or for long periods of time.

Finally, it is important to follow all product instructions regarding gapping and spacing requirements. Failure to do so can void the product warranty. This includes allowing sufficient time for the wood to acclimate to the climate and leaving space to allow for expansion and contraction of the deck boards due to changes in humidity.

When working with any type of wood, a dust mask is recommended to protect against wood slivers and to avoid an allergic reaction. It is also a good idea to use a pair of safety glasses for protection against flying wood chips. Sawing, sanding or machining wood products generates wood dust, which is known to cause cancer. This type of work should always be done in a well-ventilated area and it is a good idea to have a fire extinguisher nearby for emergencies.

A custom commercial deck enhances a property, providing a pleasant space for outdoor dining and entertaining. It also increases seating capacity, allowing businesses to accommodate more customers during peak times.

However, like any other structure, commercial decks need routine maintenance to keep them safe, functional and attractive. Neglecting these essential tasks can result in costly repairs, safety hazards and reduced property value. The good news is that a little bit of effort can prevent these problems from occurring in the first place.

The most important step in deck maintenance is cleaning. Sweep the surface regularly to remove dirt, debris and dust that can cause damage to the deck over time. It’s also a good idea to wash the deck with a mild soap and water solution at least once a year — preferably in the spring. This will help prevent moss, mold and algae growth that can make the deck look unsightly.

When washing the deck, be sure to follow the instructions on the cleaning solution that you choose. Otherwise, you could damage the wood fibers and cause it to splinter. After you’ve washed the deck, allow it to dry thoroughly before using it again.

Depending on the type of deck, it may need to be sanded down periodically. This will help to get rid of rough spots and smooth the surface, making it safer for people to walk barefoot on. Also, sanding the deck can help to remove any loose nails that might have become exposed over time.

Once the deck has been sanded, it’s a good idea to apply a borate treatment to it. This is a preservative that helps to protect the wood from fungus and other types of rot. After applying the borate, wait two to three days for it to dry. After that, you can begin to stain the deck.

Staining your deck will help to protect it from the sun’s damaging UV rays, which can fade the color of the wood and lead to discoloration and cracking. You should only use stains that are specially formulated for decks, as they will be better able to withstand the elements.

As the elements and use wear on a deck, it’s important to check for damage and take steps for repair. Surface maintenance and cleaning is doable on a DIY basis, but anyone with serious carpentry skills should hire a contractor for deeper repairs. Before committing to a renovation, homeowners should start with a thorough inspection of the deck, Lipford says. Pay particular attention to the ledger board, the long, pressure-treated piece that attaches to your home. If it’s severely rotted, that could threaten the stability of the entire deck.

Also, look for splinters—even small cracks in the wood can be dangerous to walk on. They can trap moisture and lead to more rot, so they need to be filled and sealed quickly. If you notice discoloration of the wood, it may be a sign of mildew or mold. Try wiping the area with a bit of bleach to see if it will clean it up; if not, the deck needs to be washed and resealed.

Decks in direct contact with the ground—such as stair stringers and joists—are especially vulnerable to water damage. Check them for signs of rot, including a softening of the wood that resembles dry rot. If you poke the wood with a screwdriver, it should sink in easily but not penetrate deeply; if you can’t, it’s time for a major rebuild.

If you’re replacing a damaged joist, add a reinforcing cleat from 2×4 lumber to support the new board. Cut two 12-inch-long sections of cleat to fit the deck’s frame, then drill pilot holes into each joist and fasten them with 16d nails or 3-1/2-inch deck screws. The cleats should be spaced two feet apart.

Before sealing a deck, it’s a good idea to power wash it to remove dirt, mold, and mildew that can stain the sealant. After washing, sand the deck to smooth out rough edges and allow the finish to absorb the sealant properly. If you have a wood deck, plan on resealing it every couple of years to protect the surface from weather and moisture.