8 Tips for Protecting Your Docks and Pontoons

A private boat dock or pontoon is an important investment to allow easy access to your boat or other leisure watercraft. The maintenance of the dock or pontoon is important for its longevity. Importantly protecting your dock/pontoon from the elements and ensuring the functional aspects provide the protection you require for your watercraft assets. Here are eight tips on keeping your dock/pontoon clean and in good working condition.

1. Ensure your dock/pontoon is installed properly at the outset

Be it a stationary dock/pontoon permanently in the water or a floating dock /pontoon that you can move in and out of the water as required, please check that it is installed as per the original specifications from the manufacturer. In the event of a major storm, the correct installation of your dock/pontoon will ensure it does not become unstable and tip over in the water. Ensure that you review the installation of fending devices (fenders), including the fixings to the dock/pontoon and the orientation of the fenders (horizontal and vertical). Conduct regular inspections paying careful attention to any splits, delamination, and cracks in the fenders.

2. Keep photographic records of your dock/pontoon for reference

Once you install your dock/pontoon, get into the habit of photographing it periodically (say every 6 months or so). In doing so, you can assess the images of seasonal adjustments in different conditions over time. You may not recognise your dock/pontoon fading or sloping in a particular direction upon daily inspection. However, when you have photos, you can review the changes of your dock/pontoon and find any issued and conduct maintenance to ensure longevity and safe operation. Ensure you examine and photographs any fending devices and if the dock/pontoon has had any abnormal watercraft activity the photographs can serve as a ‘before’ image to assess any damages.

3. Pressure wash and keep your dock/pontoon clean

As most docks/pontoons are exposed to the elements, they will likely attract debris and possibly become covered in unsightly and unsafe coatings. This can make your dock/pontoon unattractive and unsafe to use. Pressure washing your dock/pontoon with a pressure washer and detergent specifically designed to clean docks/pontoons will ensure it remains in good condition. If the dock/pontoon is produced in wood, exposed timber that has not received the appropriate re-application of marine-grade coatings may rot. Clean the fenders on the dock/pontoon with warm soapy water and replace any damaged fenders with an appropriately proportioned fender to ensure the adequate protection of your personal watercraft or boats.

4. Ensure your surfaces are free from splinters

Wooden docks/pontoons are notorious for splinters after prolonged periods in the exposed weather. In the warmer month splinters can pose a hazard to bare feet walking across the dock/pontoon.  Remove any splinters by sanding them down and making your dock/pontoon smooth.

5. Seal Wooden Docks to Prevent Dry Rot

Timber docks/pontoon may be susceptible to dry rot, which is something you might be forced to deal with if you don't make the decision to seal a wooden dock. Water can penetrate wooden docks and cause rotting to occur. Find a sealer that will protect the dock/pontoon from rainwater as well as water from the lake, river, or sea. Excellent sealers are sold in good hardware and paint stores and will keep moisture out and stop a dock/pontoon from rotting.

6. Use an appropriate size fender for the dock/pontoon

Selecting the right-size fender is important for the protection of the dock/pontoon and the watercraft used in an around the dock/pontoon. Consider placing fenders in both the horizontal and vertical portions of your dock/pontoon. The fenders will serve as a barrier that will stop the boat from damaging the dock/pontoon in windy and stormy conditions. If your fenders sustain damage due to unanticipated impacts, make sure you inspect them for fit-for-purpose use to protect your assets.

7. Repair your dock/pontoon if it becomes damaged

Do not put-off repairs to the dock/pontoon. Fixing even a small amount of damage caused by the elements or the misuse of the dock/pontoon you can stop it from evolving into a larger issue in the future.

8. Remove your dock/pontoon from storm conditions

If your dock/pontoon is small enough, during rough weather you may wish to remove it from the water. Bad weather can inflict significant damage to your dock/pontoon. Be sure to remove it in a safe manner, using the correct lifting positions, employ the support of a friend or neighbour, or have a lifting device to assist. Make sure to inspect your dock/pontoon for any damage to the fenders or the structure.

Follow these simple steps to ensure that your dock/pontoon provides you the safety, protection, and enjoyable use for many years. Importantly, ensure that your watercraft and other boating assets are accessible at the times you require them. Enjoy your watercraft activities.

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