How long has it been since you went to your lake house? When COVID hit, many people were forced to isolate themselves, and the world was locked down. It wasn’t until a year later that some of the restrictions were lifted, and travel opened up again.
Many were faced with unemployment, and some battled with depression. Understandably, very few had a vacation on their mind. If you were one of these people, you probably didn’t think about your lake house once.
So, be prepared for some damage because your wood dock might not look the same as you saw it last time. The waves, wind, and sun might have wreaked havoc on the pilings, railings, and dock edges.
Most people overlook dock maintenance. They are more concerned about their boat. A dock is an expensive investment; ignoring it could lead to rotting and deteriorating wood.
Let’s look at some important maintenance tips for a wood dock:
Maintenance Based on Material
Dock maintenance rules differ from material to material. Since wood docks come in different wood types, you must ensure you use the proper cleaning materials.
Pressure Treated Wood: This is the most cost-effective wood type but requires a lot of work. If you are choosing pressure-treated wood for your dock, choose a premium sub-category, such as kiln-dried wood. This is marine-certified wood but still requires regular sealing to prevent rot.
Ipe Lumber: This is one of the most beautiful types of wood and a durable dock material. The wood needs to be cleaned and oiled regularly to maintain its rich color. Otherwise, its hue will fade. Ipe Lumber is highly resistant to bugs and water.
Composite Decking: This wood type is made from plastics, natural fibers, and wood. It’s as insect and moisture-resistant as Ipe. Some companies make composite decking using a special resin that protects the surface from decay and mildew. Since this wood is stronger than other wood types, it is easy to maintain.
Sanding and Staining
Once your dock is completely clean, it’s time for the finishing touches. After pressure washing, sanding is required. It will smoothen the rough areas and prep the dock for staining.
A dock should be stained yearly and in winter. That’s when the water level is low, allowing you to cover as much of the structure as possible.
In conclusion, the best way to maintain your wood dock is to wash, sand, stain, and seal it. Experts recommend that a wood dock be washed at least once yearly and more if it receives high foot traffic. Remember to use the right water pressure to avoid cracking the surface.
You can stain and seal the dock on your own. Take up the task on the weekend, and you will be done in a couple of hours. As for sanding, we recommend hiring a professional because if the heavy machine slips through your hands, you might cause a dip in the decking.
EZ Dock Texas offers professional dock installation. Browse their wide range of different boat docks made from high-quality and long-lasting material. For more information, call (800) 654-8168.
