How to replace of deck wooden planks that extend over canal?

[AJD]

Want to replace the wood planks of my father’s deck which is situated over a saltwater canal. This is only a part picture that my son took (which was originally for pic of his boat to show me). This gave me lightbulb idea in wanting to replace wooden deck for my father. In the photo it only shows the front and right side shape of the deck. It is the same shape just the opposite direction to the left.

I’ve never do done anything like this before and my 15 year old son will be helping me, so I first really need to know what type of wood would need to be used because it is permanently sitting over the salt canal water and have small boats coming and going. Would it need to be a specialised type of wood to replace the original decking and also will this apply with the nails and other fastening materials, different from decks that are built in the backyard ( garden) over ground/grass usually?

 

[JacobZ]

Hi @AJD,

Thank you for your question and welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is wonderful to have you with us.

Docks and pontoons, especially those over salt water, require specialised materials that are capable of resisting the decay that would usually be caused by their environment. Timbers that are constantly submerged in saltwater need to be treated to H6 level, but I am unsure whether the decking boards need to be treated to this level. Please allow me to contact our suppliers to see whether they have a product that they can recommend for this application when they reopen on Monday.

Our supplier Ekodeck offers a specialty product called Maxiboard that can be used in this application. If you wanted to use this product, I'd suggest contacting your local store's Trade Desk to place an order.

You will also need to use marine grade stainless steel fixings such as these Simpson Strong-Tie 12G (5.5mm) x 65mm 316 Stainless Steel to resist corrosion caused by the close proximity to salt water.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[MitchellMc]

Hi @AJD,

Our supplier, Parkside Timber, has a range of H3-treated hardwood timbers that we can order. When coated with appropriate marine-grade products, these timbers would be suitable for a canal dock, provided the dock doesn't regularly submerge or is covered with waves. 

We also have Pentarch Forestry, where we can order Turpentine decking in 130 x 19mm and 86 x19mm. Turpentine would be considered the premium product for wet area dock applications.

Orders for these products can be placed through your local stores Special Order desk.

I just wanted to point out that when replacing the decking, it would be important to have the frame inspected to see whether it needs replacing, too. Placing new decking over an aged frame could cause issues if the frame needs to be replaced later. There would be an additional cost for the new frame now, but ensuring both the decking and frame are new would be a wise decision moving forward.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell