Deciding which boat dock material to buy can be a little tricky. For example, you might like the natural look and feel of wood. Though it’s an affordable dock material, it becomes quite costly due to its maintenance. It must be sealed regularly to keep it waterproof and safe from mold. Plastic is not considered a quality material because it can crack under extreme heat or cold.
Finally, there’s aluminum, which is highly durable, more so than any other dock material. However, it also happens to be the most expensive one! One of the biggest benefits of installing an aluminum dock is that it requires minimal maintenance.
Let’s take a look at some tips on maintaining an aluminum dock:
Sweep Your Dock
The easiest way to retain your aluminum dock’s luster and shine is to sweep it daily. This will remove any surface debris and dirt, saving you hours of cleaning with a hose to removed caked mud.
Pressure-Wash the Dock
Aluminum docks are pretty strong. They can be pressure-washed on the highest setting without fear of damaging the surface. You can do this wood. Avoid using chemicals at this point, as they can erode the material. Avoid cleaning products with the following ingredients:
- Chlorine Bleach
- Ammonia
- Petroleum Solvents
- Phthalates
- Phosphates
Use Water and Mild Dish Soap
If you see stains on your aluminum dock, use a mild dish soap and water DIY solution to clean them. Use a towel or non-abrasive cloth to scrub the dock. Move the solution around with a floor wiper to see if the stains are still there. If you still see a faint hint, pressure-wash the dock and try the next DIY solution.
Use a Vinegar Solution
You are probably aware of how versatile vinegar is. It is excellent at removing difficult stains! Mix one part water with one part vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray this solution on the stain and let it sit for one minute. If you don’t have vinegar, you can also use baking soda.
Dip a towel in clean water and rub the stain in circular motions. Make sure to wipe the vinegar entirely from the surface because if left overnight, it will discolor the aluminum.
Use Salt and Lemon
A DIY scrub made with lemon and salt will work wonders for tough stains. You must get down on your knees and put in some elbow grease for this DIY cleaning hack.
In conclusion, maintaining an aluminum dock requires no chemicals for maintenance. It’s slip-resistant, waterproof, and safe from mold and mildew. However, it does have a bland look and does not come in different styles. This construction should be chosen based on its durability rather than aesthetics. You can always install accessories such as seats, a carving station, and other fixtures to give the dock a lift.
Are you looking for quality aluminum or plastic docks in Ontario? Visit the website and browse their selection of boat docks. They have a wide variety, including floating docks, PWC ports, kayak docks, etc. For more information, call (800) 654-8168.
