May 16, 2024

PWC Dock Maintenance Tips: What You Need to Know

Written by ShoreMaster Marketing

Maintenance and Care Tips for Floating PWC Docks

With the wind in your hair, the sun on your skin, and cool water splashing against you as you zip across the waves — riding a jet ski is always an exhilarating experience and an excellent recipe for a day well spent. With all the adrenaline and excitement surrounding this recreational activity, it can be easy to overlook personal watercraft (PWC) dock maintenance. However, if you want to keep enjoying the adventures aboard your watercraft, observing regular maintenance practices is a must. 

Below, we delve into essential tips for maintaining your floating PWC dock, ensuring its reliability, safety, and longevity. 

Introduction to PWC Dock Maintenance 

A PWC docking platform is the best protection you can get for your jet ski or waverunner. It’s also the fastest and most convenient way to load and launch your PWC. However, regular use and constant exposure to the elements can take a toll on PWC docks. Without proper care, prolonged UV exposure, rough water impact, and marine growth can lead to potential issues that could compromise both the floating PWC dock and your watercraft. 

Proper maintenance can minimize the following:

• Material degradation: Sun exposure can cause plastic to become brittle, warp, and crack, compromising the safety and stability of a floating PWC dock. For those in brackish or saltwater environments, saltwater also accelerates the corrosion of metal components.
• Algae and barnacle growth: Marine growth buildup can make the dock slippery, creating a safety hazard. In addition, these organisms can hinder moving parts (such as rollers), jeopardizing the dock’s functionality.  
• Impact damage: Rough water, collisions with PWCs, or debris can cause cracks, tears, or leaks in the floating dock. These can lead to potential safety issues for riders and the watercraft. 

Observing proper maintenance practices protects the PWC lift and the expensive vessel it supports, ultimately preserving the lifestyle you enjoy. 

Routine Cleaning Practices 

Regular cleaning is the cornerstone of effective PWC dock maintenance. Here are some guidelines and tips:

• Frequency: Aim for a thorough cleaning at least once a month during peak season and every other month during the off-season. This is in line with common boat cleaning tips.  
• Rinsing: Begin by removing any debris and rinsing the dock with fresh water to prevent salt and mineral buildup, which can corrode metal components and degrade plastics. Use a mild, environmentally friendly soap to scrub the surfaces. Avoid harsh chemicals and high-pressure hoses that can strip away protective coatings and damage the dock surface.
• Scrubbing: Similarly, avoid stiff brushes and abrasive pads, which can compromise the dock’s non-slip properties. Use a soft-bristled brush for scrubbing, paying close attention to areas with stubborn dirt or marine growth. 

For stubborn algae stains, consider using a vinegar solution. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply it to the affected areas. Leave the solution for a few minutes before scrubbing with a soft brush and rinsing thoroughly. As noted by a Healthline article, “The acidic nature of vinegar is so powerful it can dissolve mineral deposit, dirt, grease, and grime. It’s also strong enough to kill bacteria (Healthline, 2023).”

After washing, you can apply protective marine wax to highly exposed areas to help prevent fading and cracking. 

Inspecting and Repairing Your Dock 

Regular inspections are critical to catching issues before they escalate into costly repairs. Inspect your PWC floating dock monthly for signs of wear, such as cracks, warps, or punctures, and check for loose or rusted bolts, nuts, and screws. Pay special attention to keel rollers, connectors, and mooring points, as these are high-stress areas that can wear with continuous use. Tighten loose hardware and replace any damaged components with manufacturer-approved parts. 

Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and repairs. For minor cracks, a marine-grade sealant often addresses the issue. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the inspection or repair process, seek professional assistance or contact your local dealer. 

Seasonal Maintenance Tips 

The changing seasons bring different challenges for maintaining your floating PWC dock, so it’s important to take specific actions to prepare for these variations. Here are some tips:

For winter:

• In regions with harsh winters, we recommend removing your dock from the water. If this isn’t possible, ensure the dock is securely moored and set any adjustable parts to accommodate fluctuating water levels due to ice and snow. Additionally, consider installing bubblers or de-icers to prevent ice from encasing the dock and causing structural damage. 
• If you’re leaving the floating PWC dock on the water, cover any exposed hardware or electrical components with waterproof tarps to prevent rust and corrosion. 

For summer:

• During peak season, focus on regular cleaning to minimize dirt and debris buildup and algae growth. Additionally, ensure all dock lines and mooring components are in good working order to handle the increased activity.
• Increased sunlight exposure can cause fading and warping. Apply a UV protectant specifically designed for dock materials to combat these effects. 

Adapting maintenance routines to different seasons is crucial for preserving the functionality and safety of PWC docks throughout the year. Take care of your launchpad to adventures, and it will take care of you. 

Advanced Dock Maintenance and Upgrades 

When it comes to upgrading your PWC docking system, look no further than the industry’s most trusted drive-on floating jet ski dock. Here’s a closer look at what sets our PWC docks apart:

• Drive-on, roll-off design: Our floating PWC docks maximize your time on the water with the quickest and most convenient way to launch and dock your PWC. With adjustable, dual in-line roller support, and a bow stop to protect the keel, the HydroPort Series allows you to get right into the fun stuff while protecting your PWC. 
• Superior safety and stability: Our jet ski docks feature slip-resistant walkways and a longer, wider design to provide a more stable platform for launching and retrieving PWCs.
• Durability: Our PWC docks are made from ultra-tough polyethylene with expanded polystyrene (EPS) marine foam. This enhances long-term durability and makes them capable in rougher conditions. One study found that polyethylene-based materials will likely replace common engineering plastics in aerospace, military, tissue engineering, and other applications (Liu et al., 2018).  
• Versatility: You can use HydroHoist PWC ports as a standalone drive-on docking solution, or attach them to any floating, standing, or wheel-in dock. This versatility makes HydroHoist jet ski docks suitable for all docking systems and waterfront conditions.

For over 55 years, HydroHoist has set the standard for innovative docking solutions. Since introducing the first hydro-pneumatic boat lift in 1964, we’ve expanded our offerings to provide PWC enthusiasts with the best PWC lift on the market. Contact us today to learn more about our offerings and take the first step toward enhancing your waterfront experience. 

References:

• Liu, T., Huang, A., Geng, L., Lian, X., Chen, B., Hsiao, B., Kuang, T., & Peng, X. (2018). Ultra-strong, tough and high wear resistance high-density polyethylene for structural engineering application: A facile strategy towards using the combination of extensional dynamic oscillatory shear flow and ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene. Composites Science and Technology. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.COMPSCITECH.2018.08.004 
• Healthline (May 23, 2023). Vinegar: The Multipurpose, Chemical-Free Household Cleaner You Should Know About. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/cleaning-with-vinegar