Houston summers are legendary for their heat and humidity. The climate’s hard on us, but it’s super hard on your dock, too!
If you’re worried about the relentless toll that sun and scorching temperatures can take on your waterfront investment, read on. We’ll give you all the information you need to ensure heat doesn’t degrade your dock.
How does heat damage docks?
Heat will warp, splinter, or dry virtually any wooden component of your dock. It’s less of a concern if you build with composite lumber, but extreme UV and heat can still lead to fading, chalking, and minor warping if it’s not properly installed or manufactured.
Meanwhile, metal coatings can expand and contract, causing stress on fasteners. High temperatures can also affect coatings. This accelerates wear.
Strategies for Protecting Your Dock
These strategies can make a world of difference.
Clean and inspect your dock regularly. First, you want to get rid of debris, dirt, and mildew so that you avoid trapping moisture, which can lead to rot. Second, inspections help you detect heat damage early, which means you can make minor repairs before those issues expand into big, expensive problems.
Use proper sealing and staining. Apply high-quality, UV resistant sealants or stains to wood docks every 1-3 years. Sealing and staining acts like sunscreen for your dock and ensures it continues to look brand new.
Ensure proper airflow beneath and around your dock. Clear away debris or vegetation that might block air circulation.
Add shade. Shading elements like canopies or strategically placed marine-grade umbrellas over seating areas and high traffic zones can dramatically lower surface temperatures. It can also make your dock more comfortable to use.
Protecting your dock from Houston’s extreme heat will ensure you don’t have to make as many repairs or replace your dock as often.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time of year for dock maintenance in Houston?
Spring and fall are ideal. Milder temperatures make it easier to clean, seal and repair wood, and finishing work before summer gives coatings time to cure before the peak heat. Completing repairs before hurricane season begins on June 1 also helps your dock enter storm season in good condition.
Does heat affect boat lifts and metal hardware?
Yes. Heat and sun speed up wear on cables, motors, covers and electrical components, and metal parts expand and contract as temperatures change. Check fasteners and connections for loosening, keep moving parts lubricated and inspect lift cables regularly during the summer. Shading motors and electrical boxes can also help.
What are the signs that heat has damaged my dock?
Look for boards that are warped, cupped, cracked or splintering, fasteners that have backed out, faded or peeling finishes and gaps that have widened between boards. On composite decks, look for fading or a chalky surface. Fix loose boards and raised fasteners quickly, because they create tripping hazards.
Is composite or wood better for docks in a hot climate?
Both can work in Houston. Composite resists warping, splintering and rot and needs less upkeep, but some colors get hot underfoot. Pressure-treated wood costs less up front but needs regular sealing to stand up to sun and humidity. The best choice depends on your budget, how much maintenance you want to do and how you use the dock.
Get Help Today
Don’t let the summer sun compromise the integrity of your dock. For expert advice, repairs, or the design of a new custom dock build, trust the local specialists. Contact us to schedule a quote or to schedule some maintenance. We’re here and happy to help!
