Construction along waterways requires a different skill set than construction on land. A marine construction contractor has the proper tools, credentials, and experience to complete your project properly.
Skills
Marine construction projects take on unique challenges compared to land-based construction. These challenges often stem from using different materials, making some projects more susceptible to damage if improperly handled.
For example, wood dock beams must be pressure-treated and meet certain minimum standards. Using an improper preservative could result in the structure deteriorating and failing long before it should. Marine contractors are also skilled at selecting the right building materials for coastal environments. Marine contractors are also experienced with using different floats that allow for various installation options. Choosing the right floats can keep the dock in place even during hazardous water conditions or extreme winds.
Durability
With the right decking, a dock can be durable enough to withstand years of sun exposure and use by boaters and people walking along its edges. But the rest of a dock is also important, and the most durable materials must be used for its other components.
Marine construction is a specialized field dealing with the building and maintaining structures in freshwater and marine coastal areas. These include erosion control projects such as bulkheads, seawalls, revetments, groins, and jetties; marina basin and harbor projects; navigation structures such as docks and piers; and dredging. For instance, Palm Beach County docks contractors participating in marine construction projects have unique skill sets and varying risk exposures. Consequently, they need customized insurance coverage beyond standard workers’ compensation and general liability policies. They should work with agents and insurance companies with experience working with marine contractors and understanding ocean marine risks. They should also look for agents and insurers with a local presence for convenient access to underwriting and claims specialists.
Experience
Most waterfront communities require a marine contractor at some point, whether it is to construct or repair a dock, boathouse, ramp, or shoreline erosion control structure. Before selecting a contractor, property owners should carefully research available options for the project. The contractor selected should have experience and a solid track record in the field. They should also have a good understanding of the project itself, especially its scope and limitations. A contractor must have a thorough knowledge of the particular aspects of a given project to avoid ending up costing more in the long run due to unnecessary repairs or replacements.
Materials
Marine construction jobs present different challenges for contractors than typical land-based work. For instance, marine contractors must adapt to rapidly changing regulations at both state and federal levels related to work performed in the water.
Additionally, a growing recreational boating population is prompting ports to build larger docks and piers that stand up better to heavier vessel impacts. In addition, hurricanes and other natural disasters often require infrastructure rebuilding along impacted waterways. When building a durable dock, using the right materials is key to ensuring that it is both strong and stable. Steel is an excellent option for dock pilings, especially when fastened with blind bolts, as this ensures that the structure is both resistant to corrosion and extremely sturdy.