If you’re like most people, you probably take your private jetty for granted. You may not even think about it until something goes wrong – like the timber starts to rot, or the nails start to come loose. Fortunately, with a little bit of maintenance, you can keep your jetty in good condition for years to come.
Here are a few tips to get you started.
1. Inspect Your Jetty for Damage and Wear and Tear Regularly
Your priority is the safety of everyone who uses the jetty, so make time for a monthly inspection. Check for loose screws or nails out of the wooden deck. Check also for loose or rotting boards. The last thing you want is to get splinters on your feet.
2. Clean the Jetty Using a Soft Brush or Broom – Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals or Detergents
The key to keeping your jetty looking pristine and new is regular maintenance. Letting dirt sit on your dock can lead to discolouration and encourage moulding. A good starting point is to clear p your timber of any debris. A soft-bristled scrub brush with a deck cleaning solution or any environmentally safe soap will do the job nicely.
You can also do pressure washing, but keep in mind that this process can be too harsh especially if the spray nozzle is too close to the surface. That means the deck is likely to be softer, and splinters will begin to appear. So take a sander to the boards and smooth out rough spots. You should also sand out any rusty spots, particularly on the steel supports and parts.
3. Apply a Coat of Wood Sealant Every Few Years to Protect the Wood From Moisture and Weathering
Exposure to the outdoors and regular general wear and tear means your deck needs to be maintained and cared for. Every three to four years, you’ll need to get your deck sanded and sealed. Sealing the wooden deck will stop it from cracking, splitting, and warping.
Preserving the look and longevity of your deck is dependent on the covering with a sealant on a regular basis. Choosing the right sealant is important, so talk to us about the best product for your specific type of timber deck.
4. Repair Any Broken or Rotting Parts
The timber used to construct your wooden jetty will inevitably begin to discolour, deteriorate, and rot. If you notice any broken or rotted timbers, it is time for a replacement. For any damaged beams or rafters, you need to first remove the decking boards.
This is why it is recommended to get our professional to do a thorough inspection of the dock at the end of every season. Then, let the professional evaluate whether or not the wooden planks need to be replaced.
Follow these jetty maintenance tips and you’ll have less of a headache later on. You may also want to consider hiring professionals like us at Onthewaterfront Sydney to do the maintenance of your jetty.
If your jetty is showing signs of wear and tear, call us at 0408 223 043.