Before putting your floating dock in for the summer

pressure washing

Spring is finally here and it’s time to start putting your dock in the water! There are a few things you need to consider before starting the process. Just like your vehicle, your dock will need some routine spring maintenance. We suggest looking over everything on your dock prior to installation. This will help prevent smaller issues that could potentially become a large issue for you during the summer.

Looking over the pipe guide inserts is the first important step. If the insert material has worn down they will need replaced to prevent the pipe from rubbing the aluminum. Once the steel pipe rubs the aluminum you will need a major weld repair to fix the issue. Also looking over all of the hinge connections, floats, and wheel systems are important. Just to make sure everything is working properly and to be sure you don’t have any maintenance issues throughout the summer. If you are not sure what you are looking for to check these things you may want to have a local dock business look over the dock for you. If you have your dock stored with a business over the winter chances are they will do this for you anyhow.

Another thing you can do for your dock before putting it in the water would be to pressure wash it, especially if you have a wood walkway. These can tend to become slippery over time from the algae build up. If you pressure wash beforehand you should not have to worry about this through the summer. If you have vinyl decking it may be a good idea to pressure wash it just so your dock is looking nice and clean, but you shouldn’t have the buildup issue like wood walkways. Happy spring! Enjoy your summer and your dock!