Seasonal Dock Maintenance Ontario

The privilege of owning a dock, either residential, commercial, or recreational, is also a responsibility. Any outdoor structure that is exposed to the elements will require maintenance to ensure that it is safe, stable, and maintained in an attractive condition. Seasonal changes in Canada can be brutal when it comes to the health of your dock; whether it is freezing Canadian winters or muggy summer temperatures, each season has different challenges that can threaten the integrity of your dock. This comprehensive guide offers a Seasonal Dock Maintenance checklist with the approval of experts, and tools that you must carry to maintain your floating or non-floating docks in exemplary condition throughout the seasons. Regardless of whether you have a wooden dock, an aluminum dock, or a composite dock, these maintenance tips can help prolong their life, prevent unnecessary repairs, and help keep them safe to use year-round. Why Seasonal Dock Maintenance Matters Docks are continuously bombarded by water, sun, wind, ice and human action. With time and use, these components wear and tear on all the parts-decking and floats, hardware and pilings. Here’s why staying on top of seasonal dock maintenance is essential: Safety: Eliminate accidents that can be brought about by loosening of boards, disintegrating fasteners, or wobbly structures. Longevity: Prolong the life of your dock and avoid problems and expenses that can result when small repairs go undone. Performance: Provide buoyancy, stability and access to boats or swimmers. Aesthetics: Maintain your waterfront as clean, appealing and proper. Tools You’ll Need for Dock Maintenance Before discussing seasonal checklists, it is important to make sure that you have the proper tools. The following ordinary and special equipment will assist you with inspecting, repairing, and cleaning your dock. Basic Dock Maintenance Tools Cordless drill or impact driver Marine-grade stainless steel fasteners Adjustable wrench and socket set Rubber mallet Pry bar or crowbar Utility knife Level and measuring tape Cleaning Tools Power washer or garden hose with spray nozzle Algae and mildew remover Scrub brushes (soft and stiff-bristle) Deck cleaner for wood or composite surfaces Broom and dustpan Inspection & Repair Tools Flashlight or headlamp for underneath areas Hammer and chisel (for rotted wood) Multimeter (for checking electrical lines if applicable) Replacement decking boards or floatation devices Caulk gun and marine sealant Spring Dock Maintenance Checklist As the winter melt transforms to warm weather, it is time to prepare your dock and make it ready for boating, fishing, swimming, or any form of entertainment. The time of year most critical in which a dock should be thoroughly inspected and put in repair is the spring.  Inspect the Dock Structure Check boards in decking to see signs of rot, warping, cracks, or damage. Look at bolts, brackets, and hinges to make sure that they are not rusted or corrosive. Inspect joints or welds on aluminum docks. Examine flotation devices to be sure that there are no cracks or leaks, and that they are not displaced. Tighten and Replace Hardware Tighten all loose bolts, nuts or lag screws. Install new fasteners of marine-grade stainless steel where other fasteners are corroded or damaged. Check and grease hinges or joints on ramp as required. Clean the Dock Surface Removes leaves, dust and debris that collected during winter. Use matchstick power wash to clean wood decks or composite decks to get rid of mold and mildew. If necessary, use a wood and/or composite safe cleaner.  Inspect Anchoring System Make sure that chains, anchors and ropes are in place and in good condition. Adjust cord, or substitute shackles that are worn out. Inspect pilings or posts, where stationary docks are used, to ensure there is no ice or freeze thaw damage. Reconnect Utilities When your dock has lighting, water lines or power pedestals, all electrical connections should be inspected. Use GFCIs (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters) to be safe. Reinstall electrical equipment or solar lighting features that are removed Summer Dock Maintenance Checklist Summer is the season of dockage. The higher the usage, the more wear and tear it attracts- along with the risk of unanticipated problems. Mid-season dock care is all about keeping the performance, appearance and keeping it safe.  Perform Mid-Season Inspections Check a new crack and split or wood rot. Check floats and make sure that there is even weight distribution down the dock Inspect the deck boards to check up on whether a section of the deck board has loosened or shifted due to the expansion caused by heat.  Maintain Clean Surfaces Remove algae and slippery build up using an algae cleaner that will not harm your docks. Floors need to be dry and sweeping to minimize slip damages Sweep away any bird droppings, fish scales or spillages as they occur.  Recheck Fasteners and Cleats Make sure of tie-down cleats to dock boats. Check looseness in railings, ladders and bumpers.  Protect from UV Exposure Consider a UV protective sealer or stain on wood decking. Clean and care after siding material with the assistance of the manufacturer.  Monitor Water Levels and Dock Position In lakes or rivers where the water level varies use floating docks that are being adjusted. Adjust anchor lines when this is applicable when the dock is swaying or racking Install or relocate fenders to eliminate boat and dock perimeter damage. Fall Dock Maintenance Checklist Fall is when you want to get your dock ready to winterize especially in areas that do freeze. Hosting fall dock maintenance is one way in which large damages that may be caused by ice, snow, and freezing waters can be avoided. Inspect One Last Time Do a thorough structural inspection such as the one that is conducted during springtime. Tax any exhausted hardware or diminished boards Remove or Secure Dock Sections Those who own modular floating dock, detach and remove them, to have during winter. Store floats and frames out of sunlight in a frost free area. Install in each ice protection such as de-icers or bubblers on permanent or stationary docks. Clean Thoroughly Wash off and scour