Do you need some advice on the safety measures to be taken while constructing a pier on your waterfront home? Constructing a pier is an excellent addition to your property, since it will provide you with a good platform for boating, fishing, or just for leisure. Pier installation is not as easy as placing wooden planks over the water body as many people might think. The construction process entails a lot of planning, use of appropriate materials, and strict adherence to safety measures in order to guarantee the strength and safety of the structure.
Neglecting safety measures will result in future damages, accidents or expensive repairs, and replacements in the long run. Below are safety precautions that you need to adhere to when planning to install a pier.
Precautions To Be Taken When Constructing A Pier
Conduct a Site Inspection
A site survey of the location where the pier will be installed should be done before construction begins. The depth of the water and the type of soil, as well as the changes in the tides, will determine how the pier should be constructed. Soft ground may need deeper pilings, while areas with strong current may also require extra piling. A professional inspection will help in identifying the most appropriate materials and design that will ensure the structure is stable for a long time.
Obey All Local Building Codes and Regulations
One of the common mistakes that many homeowners make is that they begin construction without researching the legal requirements. Each geographical area has its construction laws and regulations that have to be met to make sure the pier is safe and does not harm the environment. Noncompliance with these laws can lead to fines or even the removal of your pier. It is recommended to seek advice from the local authorities or engage a professional pier installation service provider to help with the permits.
Use High-Quality Materials
Piers need to withstand exposure to water, wind, and varying weather conditions. If the materials used are of low quality or have not been treated, the structure will degrade very fast and become unsafe. For this reason, it is advisable to use pressure-treated wood, marine-grade aluminum, or other composite products that will not decay, rust, or corrode easily. Using high quality materials does not only increase the durability of the pier, but also minimizes the risks of accidents that result from weak or faulty structures.
Ensure Proper Weight Distribution
An unbalanced pier is very dangerous, particularly if many people or heavy items are placed on it. The weight needs to be uniformly placed on the pilings to avoid any tilting or sinking of the structure. This is why professional builders use precise calculations to ensure the pier can support its intended load. If you want to put a boat lift or any other equipment with a lot of weight, then some reinforcements may be required to ensure safety.
Provide Safe and Anti-Slip Floors and Rails
Piers can sometimes be slippery because of water exposure, and this makes the chances of falling high. It is advised that non-slip decking materials be installed to reduce the occurrence of accidents. If the pier is located in an area with heavy traffic or has raised sections, protective railings should be installed for enhanced safety. Handrails, ropes, or wooden barriers can be put along the sides to avoid cases of people falling off into the water.
Check Weather Conditions Before Installation
Constructing a pier is always a risky business, especially when the weather is not very good. Weather conditions such as strong winds, heavy rains, or high tides can lead to accidents or make it challenging to fix the materials in place. Always check the weather conditions before beginning work.
Contact Us For A Professional Pier Installation
At DockTechs, we pride ourselves in offering you safe and quality pier installation services in Brunswick County and Horry County, NC. We have been in business for more than 25 years and know how to construct piers on the waterfront, all while adhering to safety measures to ensure that the structures are strong and safe. Our team is responsible for handling everything from the inspection of the site and acquiring the permit to using quality material to ensure durability.
Safety is also given much importance in the construction of the pier to make sure that it is not only aesthetic but also sturdy enough to withstand strong winds, storms, and other destructive forces of nature. If you own a waterfront property and you need pier installation, then you should contact DockTechs for quality services at an affordable price.