Expert Tips to Fix a Dock After a Hurricane
Most Common Types of Hurricane Damage
If you go outside after a hurricane and find damage to your boat dock, Q-ICE Builders is here to help fix your dock properly and identify ways to prevent damage in the future. Hurricanes can be powerful enough to damage even well-built docks, but the most common damage happens due to a lack of integrity or preparation.
Surprisingly, sinking is not the biggest threat to boat docks.
The biggest threat is actually uplifting, where dock pilings are lifted out of place from the repetitive force of wind and waves.
Here are a few of the most common types of damage we fix at Q-ICE Builders.
- Piles lifting out of the lake bottom: This problem must be addressed at the start of the boat dock construction process. Piles improperly set into the lake bottom are at the highest risk for uplift during a hurricane and are a major root cause of other damage to a dock's floor or roof.
- Floor framing breaking or collapsing: The infrastructure underneath the dock floor is tested during a hurricane with relentless pounding of waves and storm surges. This damage could lead to the collapse of your dock’s flooring.
- Old deck boards lifting up or blowing away: Old decking or rotted wood sometimes cannot withstand the force of the wind and waves and can be broken off. Loose boards are especially prone to being torn away.
If You Are Unsure of Safety, Don’t Go on Your Dock
After a hurricane, you will naturally check your house and boat dock for any signs of damage from the storm. For your boat dock, here is a rule of thumb:
Don’t walk out on your dock if your dock looks compromised.
If you find damage to your boat dock, call Q-ICE Builders for a professional examination and an estimate of what repairs are needed and what they will cost. We can help repair what is damaged and identify what may have gone wrong in the first place to cause unnecessary damage.
Remember that we may not be able to assess the damage fully until the water levels recede. It may take extra time to assess damage under the surface, give a thorough examination, and recommend repair.
What does the repair process look like? How much does it cost? The answer varies for each property, but look below for a general expectation for repairing your dock.
The Boat Dock Repair Process: Timing and Cost
Post-hurricane repairs fill our calendar quickly, but once you reach out to us, one of our professional marine contractors will schedule a time to meet with you at your property and inspect your dock. Once the water levels recede, we can get a full picture of what needs to be repaired.
In some cases, we will first need to retrieve physical pieces of your dock that were torn off during the storm. Q-ICE Builders prioritizes your safety and values quality over expediency, so we thank you in advance for your patience as we restore your investment to working order.
Whether initial construction or repairs, our name, Q-ICE Builders, sets us apart. We work until we get it right to construct your dock with Quality, Integrity, Creativity, and Efficiency. We will help you understand how your dock could be overhauled and properly constructed to prevent the same type of storm damage you have encountered.
Our specialty is creatively building sound boat docks that will last a lifetime. We offer innovative materials and techniques that fit your needs and lifestyle.
Preparing for the Next Hurricane
The best way to mitigate potential loss for the next hurricane is to bolt your sway-bracing and carrier beams and ensure rotted wood is replaced. Our work is personalized to your property and needs, starting with time-tested techniques that hold against even the strongest winds and waves.
Additional Considerations
Consider discussing your situation with your insurance company to understand how your insurance policy can help cover the costs of repairing structural damage to your dock. If you have a damaged boat, addressing both the vessel and dock is essential to ensure comprehensive recovery.
Using boat lifts or fixed docks, ensure they are secured and checked regularly. Permanent docks constantly exposed to the elements need regular maintenance to withstand future tropical storms.
Contact Q-ICE Builders if Your Dock Suffers Major Damage
While we do not handle routine maintenance and repairs at Q-ICE Builders, if your boat dock should suffer major damage during a storm, contact us to schedule a consultation and learn how we can restore it and better prepare the dock to withstand the next storm.
We would love to earn your business for life and give you peace of mind before, during, and after any Florida hurricane.
Fix a Dock After a Hurrican FAQs
What are the first steps to take when assessing dock damage after a hurricane?
Begin by conducting a thorough visual inspection of the dock. Check for structural damage, such as broken or missing planks, pilings, and loose or missing fasteners. Look for debris that may have become lodged around the dock, as it can cause further damage if not removed.
How do I determine whether my dock needs a complete rebuild or repairs?
Evaluate the extent of the damage to decide on the course of action. Repairs might be sufficient if the dock’s foundation, such as pilings and beams, remains intact and undamaged. However, a complete rebuild may be necessary if foundational elements are compromised or more than 50% of the dock structure is damaged. Consulting with a professional dock builder like Q-ICE Builders can provide a more accurate assessment.
What materials are best for rebuilding or repairing a dock in a hurricane-prone area?
Use materials designed to withstand harsh marine environments. Composite decking and aluminum are popular choices. Composite decking offers longevity and low maintenance. Aluminum is lightweight, resistant to corrosion, and ideal for structural components. Ensure all fasteners and hardware are marine-grade to prevent rust and corrosion.
