Dock piling protection is critical to maintaining the structural integrity and longevity of waterfront docks and piers. Dock pilings, which provide support and stability to these structures, are susceptible to damage caused by various factors such as marine organisms, waterborne debris, and constant exposure to waves and tides. Implementing effective dock piling protection measures is essential to prevent deterioration, preserve the functionality of the dock, and minimize costly repairs.
There are many options for adding piling protection, some before the damage has occurred and others after.
What are your options for protecting your dock piers so that they last the life of your boat–or at least many more years to come (and maybe a few more after that)?
Here are some of the top choices for dock piling protection:
Pile Sleeves
The pile sleeves are usually made of a PVC coating which is heat-shrunk to fit around the pier. The lumber yard will install pile sleeves over the entire pier before the posts enter the water. It will look like the pole has been painted in this case and may not even be wood underneath.
Post pile sleeves ensure the pier pole is never in contact with water, marine life, or the elements. With pile sleeves, you can eliminate the problem of “Shipworms” or boring worms. The pile sleeves also provide total UV protection.
The biggest “con” is that you need to install the sleeves for piles before you put the piles into your dock. You can only install on docks that have new piers or when you entirely replace piers. DuroSleeve is a common brand. While it’s a comprehensive and durable pile protection option, it is very expensive. The most expensive pile sleeves are for luxury homes, docks, or as pier posts protection on commercial docks.
SnapJackets
Using SnapJackets can be a great option, but they are expensive and difficult to install.
SnapJackets are a good option if your piles have been damaged and you don’t need to replace them. If money is not a major concern, you might want to look into SnapJackets.
Once installed, a SnapJacket can be a “total dock piling protection.”
SnapJackets are two pieces of fiberglass that “snap on” to the dock pier posts. After that, concrete is poured between the SnapJackets and the dock pier post.
It’s a neat trick because the concrete will “creep” into any areas where the piles have holes, whether caused by Shipworms or some other type of damage. SnapJackets are neither cheap nor “pretty,” but they can prolong the life of pilings by up to 50 years!
Dock Piling Caps
Dock pile caps are essential protective covers designed to safeguard the tops of wooden dock piles. These heat shrink caps offer reliable protection against water and moisture ingress, helping to increase the lifespan of your dock piles. Manufactured from high-quality cross-linked polyolefin material, dock piling caps provide a durable and effective solution for preserving the integrity of your marine infrastructure.
Thanks to their heat shrink technology, installing dock pile caps is a straightforward process. The caps are designed to fit snugly over the top of the wooden pile, and when heat is applied, they shrink to create a secure and tight seal. This tight seal prevents water or moisture from seeping in, effectively protecting your dock piles.
In a hurry? Call us at (727) 334 2645
Pier Pile Protection Fenders
The name is pretty accurate: Pier pile protection fenders protect your piles from abuse. These fenders are made from wood, steel, or concrete.
The pile protection fenders are designed to protect against UV damage, structural damage, and other minor issues. They only cover a small area of the surface they cover. They are sometimes called “vertical bumpers.”
Although they are a good option for dock owners, the protection is minimal. They will only protect you from a boat or PWC.
Pile Wrap
It’s cool that you can use pile wrap to cover pier posts before or after installation. You can use this kind of dock piling protection even if your pier posts have already been damaged. The only “catch,” in this case, would be to ensure that the pier post piles are as clean as possible before adding the pile wrap.
Black vinyl sheeting is commonly used to wrap piles. As the name implies, it will be wrapped around piles before being secured by stainless steel nails. Wrapping will take place a bit above water and then below the midline.
Once installed, the wrap protects the pier posts from UV rays and marine organisms – at least in the covered area. It can, just like pile sleeves, extend the life of piles. Unlike the pile sleeves, the pile wrap will not be a “total block” solution. This is especially true if you apply it after some damage has occurred. It is an affordable and effective way to extend dock posts.
Piling Treatment
Treated pilings are robust, large round timbers with a slight natural taper that serve various essential purposes in construction and marine applications. These pilings are designed to support various structures, ranging from homes raised above flood levels to docks, piers, and other marine installations. They are versatile enough to be used as bulkheading material, deck supports, utility poles, or structural components in buildings like pole barns. With their exceptional durability and resistance to environmental factors, treated pilings offer long-lasting performance in even the harshest conditions.
One of the key advantages of treated pilings is their ability to withstand the damaging effects of water, fungal growth, insect infestation, and ultraviolet (UV) light. These pilings are treated with chemical formulas like chromate copper arsenate, which create a protective barrier against these potential threats. Treated pilings can resist decay and rot by impregnating the wood with these formulas, ensuring their longevity and structural integrity. This protection makes them ideal for environments where exposure to fresh or salt water is frequent or even in cases where permanent immersion is required.
Dock Piling Protection
Beach To Bay Divers and Pools‘ dock piling protection recycled plastic is tough and durable. It can last for a very long time. It is pliable and bends and molds easily to the size and shape of your pole, even though this material is tough. It’s also very attractive when installed and can be added pre-dock-installation or later.
Request a FREE Quote
Protect your dock pilings with Beach To Bay Divers and Pools’ professional piling protection services. Contact us to schedule a consultation or request a quote. Visit our website to learn more about our dock maintenance and repair services and discover how we can safeguard your dock investment.
Call Beach To Bay Divers and Pools for reliable, efficient, and customized dock piling protection. Contact us today and ensure the long-term stability and durability of your dock pilings!
Other Services We Offer
- Piling Wrap and Re Wrap Services
- Boat Detailing
- Underwater Hull Cleaning
- Full-Service Boat Rigging
- Drain Cover Replacement
- Pool Chemical Maintenance
- Underwater Pool Crack Repair
Dive into excellence with Beach To Bay Divers and Pools. Trust our expertise and experience the difference in pool repair services. Your satisfaction is our top priority. Contact us today!
