Waterproofing Wood Docks in Jacksonville, FL

Protect Your Dock in Jacksonville, FL

​Your wood dock in Jacksonville, FL. is unarguably exposed to the harshest of elements. Boat docks are most vulnerable to UV and water damage. Dock builders in Jacksonville urge you to make sure it's waterproofed.

​Waterproofing is the best method to protect your boat dock, boat house or bulk head and avoid either costly repair or reconstruction of a new dock altogether.

​Although you cannot prevent the exposure of your dock to the elements, you can seal, stain or paint it to sustain its finish and enhance its resistance to moisture and the UV radiation. If you are looking to preserve and waterproof your dock, consult your dock builder and follow the step below.

Boat Dock Maintenance

​Step 1: Assess Your Dock
The first step you should take before going ahead to waterproof your dock is to examine it critically to see if it needs any repairs as a result or wear or damage. Also, check if any previous waterproofing finish is still in good condition. Put some water on the wood dock; if the water beads up, the dock is well protected; if it saturates quickly, go ahead with the waterproofing procedure. The dock is ready for a coating.
 
Step 2: Prepare the Dock
If your wood dock needs waterproofing, start preparing it for the procedure. Remove loose or cracked paint and eroded wood fibers by using a wood stripper. Sand and soft wash the surface of the dock with chemicals to kill any organic growths. Consider a wood conditioner, especially if your staining the dock.

You want to make sure that the dock's surfaces are clean, this ensures waterproofing success. Dock sealants and finishes set in much better with a clean dock surface, enhancing the level of protection greatly.

Watch the weather in your specific location for at least 48 hours. Jacksonville Florida's weather forecast can change quickly and you'll want cool dry weather preferably. 

​Step 3: Apply Sealant
Be sure to keep safety in mind when waterproofing your dock. Wear protective clothing, gloves, and safety eye wear when sealing the dock.

Having cleaned and prepared the surface of the dock, apply a medium coat of waterproof sealant that is mold– and mildew-resistant. Most importantly, ensure that the sealant has UV-rays protection. The Florida sun wreaks havoc on docks and decks.

Step 4: Finish the Waterproofing
After applying the sealant, always check for missed or light spots, coat them as necessary. Leave the dock for at least 48 hours (depending on weather) to dry. Be sure to notify people not to walk on the dock by using a small notice board or wet paint tape warning them to keep off the dock. 

​Takeaway
Waterproofing your wood dock in Jacksonville, FL. is the best way to keep your dock in the best structural and aesthetic condition possible. It eases the task of maintenance and wards off costly dock repairs.
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Important Dock Maintenance