As temperatures rise, more and more sun-seekers are turning to the water in search of relief. If you’re one of the lucky few with marine property, you just might be dipping your toes in the water from the luxury of your own dock! Whether your dock is at your home or on a commercial property, there are some important things to consider for keeping it safe this summer!

1. Check for rotten framing or decking  - Don’t wait until it’s too late. A little bit of maintenance can dramatically extend the life of your marine decking. It’s important to check for structural issues first and foremost. Docks, by nature, exist in a very wet environment. Check the structural framework and planks for rotting boards and replace as needed.
2. Clean the dock – It’s important to keep your dock clean and free of algae. Wooden decking has a tendency to become slippery when wet, especially when algae is present. Give your dock a regular pressure washing to rid the wood of mildew. To further increase safety, reduce slips and falls by applying PEM Marine Matting. Unlike other mats, the PEM surface is porous, allowing water to flow through and increasing evaporation of moisture under the mats.
3. Inspect for splintered boards – If you’ve noticed your boards are chipping or splintering, consider flipping the planks to achieve a smooth surface. Protect those bare feet! A recent customer, Sea Pines Resort, did just that. By flipping their planks and applying PEM High Traffic Matting, they extended the life of their dock while ensuring their guests are safe and comfortable.
4. Inspect the wiring – It’s important to have any dock wiring inspected by a certified electrician on an annual basis. We all know water and electricity don’t mix, and this is one preventative tip you don’t want to skip. There have already been multiple electricity-related dock tragedies in our area this season. Please be careful!

To learn more about PEM High Traffic Matting and how it can improve the safety and aesthetics of your dock, contact us today!