Ahh!! Spring and summer will be here sooner than you think and its time to get your dock ready for summer!  There are few greater pleasures than enjoying a warm spring or summer day on the dock.  Docks need some love just before spring and summer are in full swing in order to get maximum enjoyment from your outdoor spaces.   Just like your indoor spaces, outdoor areas need attention to remain safe and habitable.  Now there’s no such thing as a dock that lasts forever.  By following a few common sense steps and doing what is good for the wood, you can get many more years of enjoyment before its time to replace.

The average dock will last from 15 – 25 years with proper maintenance.  Regardless, you want your dock not only to last, but to be inviting and beautiful through the years.  With a few dos and don’ts you can achieve just that.

KEEPING YOUR DOCK BEAUTIFUL

Clean your dock every year.  That doesn’t mean you have to pressure wash it every year, but you should get out your garden hose, scrub brush and a mild, environmentally-friendly soap to remove algae and debris.  

Pressure wash and stain or paint every 2 -3 years for maximum protection and beauty.  Make sure you do not use high pressure or you may damage the wood.  It is suggested to use a setting of about 1,000 to 1,200 PSI with a wide angle for best results.  After the pressure washing is done, choose a stain to protect the surface. When choosing a stain you need to be certain that it is:

  • water repellent
  • resist mold and mildew
  • retains its color

You can choose between a water-based or oil-based stain.  Water-based stain will last longer and be more durable, whereas oil-based stain will retain color longer.  Before making your final decision, please read our blog post on the many options you have to choose from.

finished dock    get your dock ready for summer

CUSTOMIZE YOUR DOCK/DECK

Personalizing your dock is the perfect way to make your outdoor space your own and project your style.   

The obvious starting point is to add furniture:

  • polyethylene benches and/or adirondack chairs
  • side tables
  • a deck box for conveniently storing items nearby
  • an optional folding wagon to carry things to and from the dock

You will want to add lighting:

  • solar powered lighting
  • LED rope lighting
  • string lights

Décor:

  • personalized signs
  • plants
  • outdoor rugs

get your dock ready

FINAL THOUGHTS

Maintaining your dock regularly before the season begins will definitely enhance your waterfront experience and protect your investment.  It is always a great place to entertain friends and families and is a great addition to your outdoor entertaining space.  ColaTown Painting has just the professional experience your need to help you with dock maintenance.  We have the equipment and know-how to get the job done right with no inconvenience or imposition on your time. 

Call Britt 803-603-6486 or e-mail ellisb@colatownpainting.com.  

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