With summer quickly approaching, ensuring your dock is at top performing condition is important before a period of heavy usage. A floating dock encounters endless stress on the water, using the following check list will give you peace of mind while enjoying your dock this summer.
Level Surface
Does the dock float level? Are all the floats in good shape and floating properly? Do the poles support the dock as designed? These are especially important issues if your dock was stored on dry land during the winter months.
Decking
Check to make sure no boards or panels have become loose. Are all the screws tightly secured? Have any boards deteriorated and need replacement? If you have natural wood decking, this is a good time for its annual sealant application.
Adjustments
Are you adding any accessories this year? Plan your expansion to best use your deck space.
Hinges
Are the hinges strong? Do they rotate freely? Make sure all components of the hinge are intact and secure. Make sure that the hinge pins are secure and locked in place.
Anchoring
If used, make sure that none of the cables are frayed, broken, or rusted. Are all pulley blocks in good shape? Verify that none of the clevis pins are loose. Do the spud poles, if used, slide freely in their sleeves? Are the poles straight? Make sure the cables for the poles are loose enough to accommodate water level changes. Are all cable clamps tight, and are all cable stakes solidly in the ground?
Handrails
Are the rails tight and secure?
GFCI Connections
Do you have electricity run to your dock? If so, test your GFCI circuit. Be sure it pops upon testing and that there is no stray current on the dock.
Gangways
Check the decking. Make sure the wheels are filled with air, if applicable. Make sure your jack works easily. Inspect the connections to the dock and to the shore.
Accessories
Make sure your accessories are securely attached to the dock, clean and ready to use. No rough edges. Are screws secure and tightened?
Lifts and Ports
If you have a boat lift or PWC docking ports, check dock mounting brackets for tightness. Make sure your lift operates properly and does not hit the water bottom before reaching the full load/unload position.