How much does it cost to repair a boat dock?

​A dock is an important addition and asset to any waterfront property or camp. Apart from providing necessary access for fishing, swimming, boating, or entertainment, it adds value to your property. However, for you to continue enjoying your waterfront deck, you must ensure it is in a good state of repair. 

Typically, the cost of repairing a dock will depend on factors such as the nature of the damage, the construction materials used, and style. Your dock repair contractor will first evaluate the features and location of your dock as part of the maintenance and repair cost assessment. 

• Water Dock Location - Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, Florida, or Texas?
  The reason why dock location affects the planning and execution of repairs is that accessibility to a water body determines the materials, equipment, and scheduling needed for the job. Repairs done on lake docks are the most straightforward and usually cost less than those on busy waterways. However, the area's climatic conditions may also affect the project. Other aspects such as river currents, water depths, and the anchoring style may pose additional challenges to marine contractors and impact the cost of waterfront construction.  Ocean dock repair and maintenance projects also have their fair share of challenges such as the effects of tides and other shore features. 
  
  
• Dock Construction Style
  It the dock is secured in place with piers or pilings, it is more conducive for making repairs. Where necessary, some docks can be moved to dry land to simplify the construction process. This mobility and flexibility tend to lower the repair rates for portable docks and standing docks. Suspended docks, on the other hand, can pose an accessibility challenge to contractors - especially if inexperienced - thereby requiring specialized equipment which of course, has an impact on price.

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• Damaged Docks & Marine Structure Repairs
  Some components of your fishing dock or waterfront pier will deteriorate over time due to frequent exposure to the aquatic environment as well as the effects of other elements and frequency of usage. As pointed out above, the location, type, and style of your dock will determine the ease or difficulty of doing the repairs. The cost to repair a dock’s foundation and support pilings will fluctuate depending on the extent of the damage. And, replacing or repairing floats typically have less costs associated with them while repairing metal pipes, posts, and other sub-structural components increase your repair investment. 

• Repairing Dock Surfaces
  Compared to supports and framing, dock accessories are much easier to access. That being said, the repair expenses will be determined by the skills required, the complexity of the project, and the required materials. Where your deck surfaces are experiencing dry rot, some of the decking boards should be at least be replaced because this can be a hazard for people walking on your dock. When planning for these repairs, you should be prepared to invest enough to cover basic repair work. In case you want additional services such as finishing or sealing of your deck wood surface, you may need to add a few more dollars to the price
  
  The effectiveness of your dock’s bumpers or vinyl rub rails also depends on their degree of wear or damage. Where the rails are damaged and ineffective, we do recommend having them repaired. If you require convenience on your dock, the addition of features like boat lifts can give you much utility. Putting these in place requires special parts and skills. If lifts are installed at the time of repair, you can expect to spend less than if a contractor comes back later. 
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• Minimizing the Frequency of Repairs
  Having a regular maintenance schedule can significantly reduce the necessity and frequency of costly repairs. There are several ways of maintaining your dock and having a service contract with a reliable dock repair company will go a long way in helping you minimize your repairs.  One of the ways you can maintain your dock is by regularly sealing the wood. This process involves the application of a protective coating which serves to reduce weather damage. The cost of this procedure varies depending on the sealant used.
  
  Building your waterfront deck or repairing it using treated lumber is a good decision and investment. While treated lumber costs more, it will serve you for longer thereby helping you recoup your costs. To remove harmful substances including mildew, ensure your dock is pressure washed regularly in between sealant applications. The pressure washing exercise done by a professional may be charged at about $1 per square foot. 
  
  For the metallic parts, a regular check should be made to monitor their condition. Corrosion, spot rust, and other structural damages are best noticed through these regular checks. In between your checks, you may also realize that some moving parts such as hinges may be in need of lubrication that you can do it yourself. 
  
  

It is, therefore, necessary to budget for repair and maintenance exercises if you want your waterfront property to be safe and reliable. Never let this valuable asset deteriorate to the point of disrepair.  We will help you pinpoint areas of weakness by getting a free dock inspection.

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