Utilizing professional dock builders is important when you need any kind of marine construction project completed. Construction outfits that specialize in waterside projects understand that building near water requires certain considerations not necessary for inland construction, but essential to marine structures. This article outlines a few of the key differences and how established dock builders can ensure the project is done correctly. 

Corrosion Resistant Metals

When building near the coast, it is important to utilize metals that have a high resistance to corrosion. With the sea just a stone's throw away,  structures built with metals prone to rusting or oxidizing can quickly deteriorate, and ultimately compromise the structural integrity of the edifice. 

Experienced dock builders understand that coastal structures must endure significantly harsher weather than those farther inland, and know that metals like stainless or galvanized steel are the only options for ensuring a structure's longevity. 

Wind Resistant Materials 

Buildings near the water must also endure consistent and powerful winds. As such, many aspects of the construction process should utilize wind resistant materials, like double hemmed vinyl siding and shingles rated for high wind velocities. Without taking certain precautions, gale force winds from the sea can literally tear a building apart piece by piece. 

Moisture Resistant Lumber

Utilizing water resistant lumber is just as important as corrosion resistant metals. Lumber still comprises a large majority of waterside structures, but dock builders understand that specially treated, water resistant wood is necessary for waterside structures. 

Additionally, some types of lumber are more naturally resistant to decay than others, which can be very beneficial for buildings that endure such corrosive conditions. Of course, most lumber used in dock and pier building is treated with a topical preservative that helps reduce deterioration over time. 

Marine construction outfits also have the experience to understand that wood is simply not viable in certain circumstances. Lumber in direct contact with the ground, for instance, is never acceptable unless it has been treated with an anti-corrosive coating.

Concrete Utilization 

For structures near the coast, the only concrete that contractors should ever use is the sulfate resistant variety. This particular grade of cement is designed to combat the corrosive effects of sulfates' interactions with the lime inherently present in cement substrates. Sulfate resistant cements substantially reduce the corrosive effect of saltwater on concrete surfaces, and are integral to a structure's longevity.

Overall, enlisting the services of experienced marine dock builders, such as Okanagan Pile Driving, will ensure that your project is completed using the corrosion and moisture resistant materials necessary for long lasting structures.

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