Your dock is the gateway to fun, relaxation, and adventure on the water—but over time, wear and tear can take a toll. The good news? You don’t need a full rebuild to make a big difference. In just one weekend, you can tackle simple repairs that boost your dock’s safety, comfort, and looks.
Whether you have a floating dock or fixed platform, here are five easy repairs you can do yourself to keep your Texas dock in top shape.
1. Replace Loose or Rusted Hardware
Over time, screws, bolts, and brackets can rust or work loose—especially in high-traffic areas or near saltwater.
What to do:
- Inspect all bolts, brackets, cleats, and hinges
- Tighten anything that’s wobbly
- Replace corroded hardware with stainless steel or galvanized materials
Keeping hardware tight improves stability and reduces the risk of injury from sharp edges or shifting parts.
2. Repair or Replace Decking Boards
Wooden or composite decking can splinter, crack, or become slippery. Even one damaged board can create a hazard.
What to do:
- Walk the dock and look for soft spots, cracks, or warped boards
- Sand small splinters or loose edges
- Replace rotted or cracked planks using compatible decking material
For floating docks made of polyethylene (like EZ Dock), inspect for dents or punctures and replace modular sections if needed.
3. Check and Secure Dock Floats
If your floating dock is leaning, sitting unevenly, or sagging in one area, it may have a damaged or waterlogged float.
What to do:
- Visually inspect all floats for cracks or punctures
- Remove and shake individual floats to listen for water inside
- Replace damaged floats with compatible units (some systems allow quick-swap installation)
A properly floating dock is safer, easier to walk on, and less likely to suffer long-term stress.
4. Re-Anchor or Adjust Dock Cables
Storms and strong waves can shift your dock out of place or put stress on its anchor points.
What to do:
- Check cables or anchor lines for fraying or rust
- Adjust tension to make sure the dock is secure but can still move with changing water levels
- Re-anchor if the dock has drifted too close to shore or other hazards
If you’re in a windy or storm-prone area of Texas, consider adding backup anchor lines for added peace of mind.
5. Add or Replace Bumpers and Edge Guards
Protecting your dock (and your boat) from accidental bumps is essential—especially with kids, guests, or changing lake levels.
What to do:
- Inspect dock edges and posts for wear
- Install or replace rubber bumpers, foam guards, or corner protectors
- Use UV-resistant materials for long-lasting protection
This quick fix can prevent expensive damage to boats and helps keep your dock looking clean and professional.
Bonus Tip: Keep a Maintenance Kit on Hand
For quick weekend fixes, store a basic dock repair kit nearby:
- Cordless drill
- Stainless steel screws and brackets
- Marine-grade rope
- Replacement cleats or bumpers
- Caulk or sealant
- Work gloves and safety goggles
Having tools ready means you’re more likely to handle small issues before they become big problems.
Upgrade Over Time
DIY repairs are a great way to extend the life of your dock—but when it’s time to upgrade, EZ Dock Texas is here to help. Our modular, low-maintenance dock systems are built to last and designed for easy part replacement, quick cleaning, and safe use in all seasons.
Want to make your dock safer and easier to maintain? Reach out to EZ Dock Texas or follow us on Facebook for expert tips and durable solutions made for Texas lakes.
