As summer rolls in, it’s time to make sure your dock is ready for lake days, boat rides, and sunset lounging. Whether your dock was installed by professionals or is a legacy piece passed down through the family cabin, a thorough check-up before the season begins is crucial. Here’s your ultimate dock checklist to prepare for a safe and smooth summer on the water.
1. Inspect for Structural Integrity
Start with a visual inspection:
Check decking for cracks, warping, or rot.
Ensure all fasteners, bolts, and supports are tight and secure.
Look for corrosion on metal frames or lift parts, especially in older installations.
2. Examine the Anchoring System
With rising and falling water levels, your dock’s anchoring system needs to be flexible but firm:
Inspect poles or footings for movement or instability.
Ensure cables and chains aren’t worn or fraying.
3. Clean the Surface
Dirt, algae, and mildew not only look bad, they can become safety hazards. A good power wash and scrub with dock-safe cleaners can:
Improve traction and reduce slipping risks.
Restore the look of your decking material, whether wood, aluminum, or composite.
4. Replace Damaged Accessories
Look for broken cleats, bumpers, or ladders. These parts take a lot of abuse and are easy to swap out for new, more efficient versions. Consider replacing:
Rusted hardware.
Old lights that flicker or no longer work.
Faded flags, signs, or decorative touches.
5. Upgrade for Comfort and Style
If everything is working fine, maybe it’s time to level up your dock life:
Add solar-powered lights for ambiance and safety.
Install a dock box for tidy storage of life vests and ropes.
Upgrade to cushioned bumpers to better protect your boat.
6. Test Your Boat Lift
Before your first launch, run a full cycle of your boat lift system. Listen for abnormal noises and ensure it rises and lowers smoothly. Lubricate moving parts and double-check your power source if electric.
A little preparation now means peace of mind all summer long. Let Waterfront Solutions get your dock back in top form, or help you upgrade to the dock of your dreams. Your summer starts here.
