How to Maintain Your Floating Dock

Routine Dock Maintenance: What You Should Do Regularly

Regardless of what your floating dock is made of, cleaning and regular inspections are non-negotiable maintenance practices. Start with the dock surface, using a mild soap solution and a soft brush to remove dirt, debris, algae, and other marine growth. For stubborn stains or rust, we recommend using vinegar as a natural and effective cleaning agent. Avoid using pressure washers, as they can cause wood to splinter or compromise slip-resistant surfaces. If you must use one, use a fan tip nozzle and keep the pressure low.

Conduct visual inspections at least monthly, and more frequently after storms or heavy use. Move from individual sections and look for signs of damage like cracks, warping, or loose connections. Monitor the anchorage and floatation systems, addressing potential issues and ordering replacement parts immediately to avoid downtime. 

Seasonal Maintenance for Floating Docks

Each season brings unique challenges that require distinct dock maintenance practices. Here’s a guide to help you keep your floating dock in optimal condition throughout the year:

• Spring Reinstallation: Thoroughly inspect the dock before reinstallation, removing dirt, debris, corrosion, and grime that may have accumulated during winter storage. Check for signs of wear and ensure all hardware is intact. 
• Peak Season Maintenance: In addition to increased use, summer typically brings conditions that are highly conducive to algae growth (Moleaer, 2023). As such, you need to ramp up the frequency of dock cleaning and inspections during the peak season, paying special attention to high-stress areas such as dock connectors and mooring points.    
• Winter Prep: As the boating and swimming season winds down, prepare your dock for the cooler months. Check for early signs of damage that may have occurred over the summer and make necessary repairs before the off-season. 

For areas with harsh winters, removing and storing your dock is often the best way to protect it from the elements. Before storage, inspect the dock for damage and clean it thoroughly to prevent corrosion or deterioration during the off-season. Store it in a dry, covered space, and ensure all parts are in good condition before spring returns.

Signs Your Floating Dock Needs Repair

Docks endure constant exposure to the elements. As such, even the most meticulous owners can miss potential issues lurking beneath the surface. 

Here are some common signs to keep an eye on:

• Structural Damage: Cracks, splinters, or warping on wooden docks, or brittleness and discoloration on plastic and composite docks, can indicate material deterioration that needs immediate attention. Warping, in particular, can signify underlying issues with the dock’s floatation balance. 
• Loose or Wobbly Sections: If you notice instability or movement between dock sections, it may signal issues with connectors or anchoring systems that require adjustment or replacement. Additionally, uneven or sinking sections could point to damaged floats.
• Algae Overgrowth: Aside from compromising slip-resistant surfaces and accelerating material deterioration, excessive algae growth may indicate underlying issues. For example, cracked wood or aging plastic can create rough or porous surfaces that harbor algae. Meanwhile, some dock configurations may create lighting and temperature conditions that can encourage algae growth.

Be mindful of these signs to keep your floating dock safe, functional, and ready for all your recreational activities year-round.

How to Perform Basic Floating Dock Repairs

Floating docks can take a beating from exposure to water, weather, and regular use. While some repairs require professional expertise, many common issues can be fixed with a little DIY know-how. Here’s your guide to addressing dock repairs like a pro and knowing when to call one.

DIY Fixes for Minor Issues:

• Patch Small Cracks or Holes: Pressure washers can create imperceptible splinters (Solitude, n.d.), especially on wooden docks. When you notice small cracks or holes, you can give the dock a once-over with a sander or use a waterproof wood filler to patch minor cracks or splinters. For plastic or composite docks, marine-grade epoxy can seal small holes effectively.
• Resurfacing: Over time, dock surfaces may become worn, faded, or slippery. Resurfacing can give your dock a new lease on life. For wooden docks, you can sand the surface to remove splinters or uneven areas, then apply a UV-resistant stain or sealant to protect against sun and water damage. For worn or excessively faded plastic or composite docks, consider using a resurfacing kit designed for your dock material or replacing individual panels.

When to Call a Professional: 

Some repairs are best left to the experts, especially when they involve:

• Structural Integrity: If the dock is sinking, tilting, or showing signs of major damage, professionals can assess and address issues with floats, anchorage, or coupling systems.
• Electrical Components: To ensure safety, repairs involving dock lighting or electrical hookups should always be handled by a licensed electrician.
• Severe Damage: Large cracks, widespread decay, or storm damage may require specialized equipment or expertise that goes beyond the scope of common DIY techniques.

Remember, knowing your limits and calling a professional when necessary is just as important as tackling DIY tasks.

Protecting Your Dock from Environmental Wear and Tear

Marine environments can be challenging, even for premium floating dock systems. Rust formation, for instance, is inevitable. But if you treat rusted areas as soon as you notice them with vinegar or dish soap, you can keep them from worsening and requiring commercial-grade solutions. Similarly, you can’t do anything to prevent storms, high winds, and strong currents. However, you can monitor weather conditions and remove or secure dock accessories and anchorage points before severe weather events. 

By staying vigilant and taking a proactive approach, you can protect your dock from premature wear and keep it in optimal shape.

PolyDock-Specific Maintenance Tips

At PolyDock, we designed our floating dock systems to be virtually maintenance-free. Each PolyDock section is made from rotationally molded high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The rotational molding process creates a seamless structure without joints or weak points, making the dock resistant to cracking, warping, or splintering. The dock surfaces are also slip, stain, and algae growth resistant, eliminating the need for power washing and re-painting. 

Periodic cleaning with mild soap and fresh water is usually enough to keep PolyDock systems in excellent condition. Just make sure to tighten all connections and anchoring points, and you’re good to go.

Maintenance Tools & Products You Should Have on Hand

Keep these items on hand to streamline essential dock maintenance practices:

• Cleaning Supplies: Soft brushes or scrubbing pads, mild soap solution, and vinegar for removing dirt, stains, and algae.
• Protective Products: Anti-corrosion spray for metal components and UV-resistant sealants for wood or composite surfaces.
• Repair Tools: Marine-grade epoxy for patching small cracks, a socket wrench set, spare bolts, and fasteners for quick fixes.
• Algae Control Solutions: Eco-friendly algae treatments or materials recommended by professional services.

We also recommend keeping a supply of extra bolts, screws, and connectors to facilitate quick fixes.

Need Help? Contact PolyDock for Support and Parts

Whether you’re looking to upgrade your existing dock setup or transform your lakeside home with one of the best residential floating docks on the market, our extensive dealership and distribution network can guide you through the entire process of building and maintaining the perfect waterfront system. 

Contact us today to discuss your requirements and experience the PolyDock difference. 

FAQs

• Can floating docks be left in the water during winter?

While leaving a floating dock is possible in areas with mild winters and minimal ice formation, it’s generally not recommended. The pressure exerted by ice expansion and movement can damage the dock’s structure. Whenever possible, removing floating docks from the water for winter storage is the safest option.

• What’s the best way to protect my dock from algae and mold buildup?

When it comes to preventing algae and mold buildup, regular cleaning is key. This enables you to remove dirt, organic matter, and spores that promote growth. For persistent algae issues, consider eco-friendly treatments or professional maintenance plans to help manage and minimize regrowth.

References:

• Moleaer (June 15, 2023). Why do Algae Blooms get Worse in Summer? Retrieved from https://www.moleaer.com/blog/lakes-ponds/why-do-algae-blooms-get-worse-in-summer 
• Solitude Lake Management (n.d.). Water Management Tips. Retrieved from https://www.solitudelakemanagement.com/the-guide-to-dock-maintenance/