dock construction – Robervin Construction

Many docks are built from wood, which offers a visual impact and blends in well with the surrounding environment. It’s also a cost-effective option, especially when treated to resist rot and pests.

Steel pilings are ideal for commercial and industrial docks for their durability and stability. They’re also easily installed using blind bolts. Keep reading the article below to Learn More.

Many factors play into the design of a dock, including the specific water body, its surrounding terrain, and other environmental conditions. During the planning process, it’s crucial to take into account wind patterns and water levels, as well as the unique characteristics of the lake bottom and shore geology. These elements will determine the structure’s durability and stability and should be factored into the final plan.

When choosing the materials to use for a dock, it’s important to consider functionality as well as cost and maintenance capacity. Wood, steel and aluminum are all durable and popular choices, but each has its own set of pros and cons. Wood requires more upkeep, as the structure must be treated and sanded regularly to keep it from rotting or splintering. Metal, on the other hand, is less expensive and offers the same level of durability as wood. Additionally, most metal docks can be made to withstand harsh weather conditions and high tidal currents.

Another factor to consider is the type of activity you wish to carry out on your dock. For example, if your dock will be used for recreation, it’s important to include multiple entertainment options so that the camaraderie doesn’t have to end when the sun goes down. Incorporating a number of seating and lounge areas, as well as adequate lighting to illuminate the area, will ensure that guests can continue to enjoy the space long after sunset.

Loading docks must also consider safety features as they’re often the main entry point for trucks and their cargo. To prevent accidents, it’s essential to implement a system of signals that indicate when loading is in progress and when the operation has been completed. It’s also crucial to have a wheel chock available in case of any accidental movements during transport.

It’s also important to decide whether you want your dock to be permanent or removable. Permanent docks don’t require any work each fall and spring to be removed and lowered back into the water, but they can be affected by harsh winters and heavy ice build-up. Removable docks, on the other hand, can be lifted from the water using a tower system that attaches to the shoreline support posts.

Materials

When choosing the materials to use in dock construction it is important to consider a number of things. Firstly, the material will need to be sturdy enough to support heavy loads and withstand wavy conditions, as well as being able to resist the impact of the marine environment. It is also a good idea to choose a material that is resistant to rust and corrosion and does not require constant maintenance. It is usually best to opt for high-quality materials which may cost a little more upfront but are more durable in the long run.

The type of wood used in the construction of a dock can be an important factor in its final durability. Douglas fir is an ideal wood for dock beams because of its strength and resistance to impact. It also has a very good water resistance and can be used in both freshwater and saltwater environments.

Another popular choice for a dock’s piling is concrete. While it does not have the same aesthetic appeal as wood, concrete is resistant to rot and can be reinforced with steel for increased tensile strength. It is also a great choice for marine environments because it is not toxic to marine life.

Metal pilings are generally the strongest and sturdiest of the materials available for dock construction. They are commonly fastened using blind bolts and can withstand the most challenging marine environments. However, they can have higher upfront costs and a more specialized installation process.

Man-made materials such as fiberglass are another option for dock pilings. These have a lower initial investment than natural wood but can last for decades and are more resistant to rot, rust and roosting pests than natural wood.

Another thing to keep in mind when choosing the material for a dock is its location. For example, if the dock is going to be used for commercial purposes it needs to be able to support large ships and containers, which means that the pilings must be very strong. Lastly, a dock will need to be properly anchored to ensure that it does not spin around in windy or wavy conditions.

Permits

Depending on the location and rules of your neighborhood, homeowner association or even state and local policies, you may need to obtain a permit for any work related to dock construction. Some states require that all docks be built from certain materials, while others may require that the structure be inspected by a professional to ensure it meets safety and structural requirements. In some cases, the process to get a permit can be lengthy and costly, so it’s important to research the policy requirements in your area before starting any building or renovation projects.

For example, in Truesdale Lake, any new dock or modification of existing docks must be approved by the dock committee. This committee is composed of members from the TLPOA, TEA and Lake Shore Drive unaffiliated riparian homeowners association. The committee also reviews each application to ensure it follows the town’s wetland buffer laws, and any construction work must be done by a licensed professional.

Some docks require a special permit, which is usually accompanied by specific design and placement guidelines that aim to reduce crowding and overcrowding, protect the natural environment and promote safety and accessibility for users. The committee will also determine the number of docks allowed on a given section of the lakeshore, and the maximum size of individual docks. The committee will review each permit and may request a site visit prior to making a decision.

Other structures, like moorings and wharves, must be registered annually and will generally need to be constructed or modified under a permit. These structures may qualify for a GP 19 permit, which permits construction of a dock or pier in a freshwater wetland, wetland transition area or State open water, or for an Individual Permit.

All professionals and contractors performing marine construction work or working over water must provide proof of US Longshoreman’s and Harbor Workers insurance coverage before a permit can be issued. Some professionals may also need to demonstrate that they have a contractor’s license for the scope of work they intend to perform. The fee for a permit will vary from place to place, but it will likely be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Installation

A dock is not as complicated a structure as it may seem at first glance, but there are a few things to keep in mind when building one. First, you’ll want to make sure the pilings are securely anchored in the bottom of your pond or lake. This requires digging a hole or setting them in concrete footers—depending on the soil type.

Secondly, you’ll want to make sure your dock is able to rise and fall with fluctuations in water levels. For this reason, it is often best to use a modular dock system that consists of a shore platform and a floating pontoon section. NyDock’s proprietary Pipefusion HDPE pontoons are the perfect choice for this type of system as they have been designed and tested to withstand extreme loads and tidal changes.

Finally, it is important to consider how the dock will be used and plan accordingly. For example, if you plan on having several people using your dock at the same time, you should build seating directly into the design of the structure. This eliminates the need to purchase and install additional furniture, which can be expensive and quick to wear out in a waterfront setting.

If you’re building a traditional dock, you’ll also want to make sure that the structure is designed to support your boat. This can be done by installing a heavy-duty anchoring system or adding extra support beams.

In addition, you should always keep in mind that your dock will likely be exposed to the elements, including the sun and wind. As such, it should be built from a durable material like pressure-treated wood. Finally, you’ll want to be aware of local regulations regarding dock construction and installation. Most states and regions set size restrictions for docks, and some require permits to build them.

A well-designed and properly constructed dock can be a great asset for your home or cottage. It can also provide a safe place for boats and swimmers to moor or dock. Taking the time to plan and construct your dock correctly can save you money, headaches, and even legal issues down the road.

Dock Services

Maintenance And Servicing Of Dock Lifts

November 8, 2023November 8, 2023 siteadmin

A well-executed scheduled maintenance plan can extend the life of your lift and make it more reliable. It includes periodic visual inspections to look for damage, rust, welds, or other structural issues.

Water damage can ruin the beams, cradles, and gearboxes of your lift by causing rust or by getting into motors and under other covers. Water can also affect sheave alignment, leading to uneven wear or slack in the cables. Having your Dock Lifts Charleston SC checked is the perfect way to prevent problems.

Hydraulic Fluid

A vital part of any hydraulic system, the quality and cleanliness of your lift’s hydraulic fluid will significantly impact its performance. The fluid acts as a lubricant and provides resistance to friction between moving parts, making it extremely important for equipment like dock lifts that require high levels of pressure and tight tolerances. It also helps to regulate temperature dissipate heat, and protect the system against corrosion and other damage. If your hydraulic system is contaminated by water, oil, or air it can cause problems such as slow cycle times and reduced energy efficiency.

Most of your lift’s internal components are in contact with the hydraulic fluid, so you must keep this liquid clean. A simple check of the fluid level will let you know when it is time to change the hydraulic fluid in your lift, but it’s also important to regularly inspect the condition of the fluid itself. If the hydraulic fluid is milky in color, this typically indicates water contamination. If the hydraulic fluid is foamy, it is likely contaminated by air.

You should always use the hydraulic fluid that is recommended by your lift’s manufacturer. Using a different type of hydraulic fluid can cause damage to the power units or cylinders, so it is important to follow the factory’s recommendations.

Hydraulic fluids contain a variety of additives that are designed to perform specific functions depending on the type of hydraulic equipment and the setting it’s used in. For example, some additives reduce oxidation and corrosion, foster anti-wear and lubrication, promote rapid heat dissipation, maintain fluid viscosity, and more.

You should never handle any hydraulic fluid without the proper protective gear, including a face mask and eye protection. It is also important to dispose of spilled hydraulic fluid properly, as it can be toxic if not handled correctly.

Cables

The major components of a dock lift are the cable and winch system. A dock lift requires regular assessments and maintenance of these parts to ensure optimal performance and prolong lifespan. Typical maintenance issues include adjusting weight distribution and cable tensions, inspecting and replacing cables, and maintaining good lubrication of moving parts such as the sheaves, rollers, and gear plates. These problems should be corrected promptly to prevent damage to the lift and potential safety hazards for its users.

In addition to these common maintenance issues, the sheave and drum of a dock lift can get rusty or misaligned due to water damage. This can cause uneven wear and tear on critical components, leading to expensive repairs or even complete replacements. In many cases, water can also leak into the motor or gearboxes of a dock lift and ruin its mechanical functionality.

It is a good practice to periodically hose down a dock lift with fresh water. This will rinse away the salt, reduce corrosion, and prolong its life. It is also recommended to rinse the lift cables in fresh water once a week. This will help prevent them from becoming brittle. It is also a good idea to lubricate the lift cables with a penetrating chain and cable fluid. This will keep individual strands of the cable from rubbing against each other and wearing them down.

Stainless steel cables are typically preferred for marine environments because they are more durable and resistant to corrosion. However, it is important to understand that stainless steel cables do not lift as much weight as galvanized cables of the same size. It is a good practice to always check your owner’s manual for the correct cable type and weight capacity for your dock lift.

Motors

The motor is the heart of your dock lift. It allows you to raise and lower your boat with the push of a button, protecting your vessel from water damage. But like any motor, your boat lift motor requires a certain amount of care and maintenance to prevent damage and ensure it continues to function as it should.

Like your boat, your dock lift can be prone to water-related issues over time, especially in saltwater areas. Lift beams, bunks, cradles, and gearboxes can be damaged directly by the water; while cables and other metal components can rust or corrode. Keep your lift out of the water as much as possible and rinse it with fresh water after use. A small amount of rust can be ground off, and drain holes should always be left closed, except for the ones in gearboxes, motors, and covers (leave those open to let water out if you need to move your lift later).

Regularly inspect for signs of leaks and make sure the hoses are properly attached. Addressing any signs of a leak promptly is critical to maintaining the integrity of your lift and ensuring it operates properly.

Keeping your lift lubricated is another crucial factor in maintaining its longevity. Using a penetrating chain and cable lubricant to protect the inside core of each strand from corrosion while reducing friction is essential. This will extend the life of your cable significantly. It’s also important to lubricate the sheaves and pulleys regularly. If you forget to lubricate them, they may seize up. This can cause serious abrasion wear on your cables. Lubricating them will also reduce the risk of a sheave or pulley breaking.

Controls

A dock lift’s hydraulic system works on the principle of using pistons or gears distributed through hydraulic piping to create significant pressure levels that lift or lower cargo. When this component breaks down, it can halt warehouse operations and lead to unplanned repairs for the facility.

It’s important to understand the components of your dock lift, so you can spot problems and address them on time. The best place to start is with a visual inspection. Look for signs of damage, especially to the frame and weldments. If you notice any cracks or loose bolts, these should be repaired immediately.

Also, check the winch motor for signs of overheating or unusual vibrations. You’ll need to lubricate the motor frequently, and you should periodically check the electrical connections for any signs of damage or corrosion. Ensure that the lubrication ports are open and free of debris.

When inspecting the cables, keep in mind that they are exposed to salt water and will eventually corrode. If you have galvanized or stainless steel cables, they should be lubricated regularly with penetrating oil to minimize abrasion and preserve the protective coating.

It’s also important to understand the capacity of your dock lift so that you don’t overload it. This can result in the hydraulic pump generating excessive pressure that will cause premature fatigue in the system’s components and ultimately break down the lift. To determine your dock lift’s capacity, you should add the maximum weight of the goods you are transferring to the truck or trailer plus the weight of the operator. You should also take into account the maximum axle rating for vehicles traveling over a fully lowered dock lift to determine the appropriate platform size.

Maintenance

Just like changing the oil in your car is important to the long-term operation of that vehicle, maintaining dock lifts and other equipment is essential to avoiding costly repairs in the future. Sticking to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule can save money in the long run.

Dock areas are exposed to heavy equipment, product, and seasonal weather, and are a common area for accidents to occur. Having a dock inspection schedule that takes into account early wear and tear, safety issues, welded spots that may be weakening, and cleaning the area can reduce the risk of equipment failure and prevent injuries to workers.

Depending on the facility traffic, inspections are usually scheduled monthly to three or four times a year and kept in a log. The checklist includes visual checks for dents and other damage, checking the safety labels on the equipment, checking fluid levels and lubrication, and making adjustments. Having a well-documented maintenance plan that addresses these items will keep production up and running and eliminate the need to stop operations when problems arise.

In addition to saving time and money, a proactive approach to maintenance and servicing of dock equipment also protects your facility from fines from OSHA. Having an effective maintenance program that addresses dock levelers, compactors, dock doors, and trailer restraint systems will reduce the chance of equipment failure.

It’s important to remember that the purpose of a loading dock is to receive and ship products. Keeping this process going without interruption is essential to the success of any business. Whether you’re shipping by truck or rail, an efficient dock will minimize the amount of downtime in your operations and keep your business moving forward.

Tag: dock construction

Planning and Designing a Dock