If you own waterfront property or a boat, you know that it can be extremely enjoyable to take a dip in the cool water. This is particularly true during the summer season.
You can swim near your dock or from the shore. This is fine. However, did you know that you can make things a lot better?
Today, there are platforms that you can use to fish, lounge, and dive in the middle of the sea. Floating swim platforms offer more versatility and options for water recreation. In addition to that, they’re an ideal investment.
Floating platforms are made to withstand outdoor conditions. They’re strong enough to endure storms and hurricanes. These platforms are also created to support the weight of several people.
So, are you interested in these floating platforms? Well, we are going to share with you everything you need to know about it.
How Long Does Floating Platforms Last?
A high-quality floating swim platform made from low-maintenance and high-quality materials will last for a lot of years.
If you own a commercial property, you probably want a good ROI (return on investment) with your floating platform. Thus, longevity is vital.
If you own a waterfront resort and invest in a swimming platform to appeal to more clients, you want the platform to last for a long period to improve your revenue and generate more income.
So, is a swimming platform a good investment? The answer is yes. This is especially true if you choose a high-quality dock from Hisea floating platforms.
Also, take note that you can also follow DIY techniques or add LED lights to your floating platform if you want to minimize costs and improve illumination and overall vibe.
Not only will these make your platform look better, but they’ll also improve their lifespan because you can choose quality materials and you can always keep a keen eye on their status.
Do You Need to Maintain It?
To maintain its longevity, usefulness, durability, shape, and look, swim platform maintenance includes a huge variety of tasks.
A couple of maintenance tasks, such as inspections and treatments, are done on a regular or semi-regular basis. Other jobs, such as fastener adjustments and repairs, are done when required. It will also need the help of a professional.
Here are several things you should know when it comes to cleaning and maintaining your floating platform:
- Cleaning
A couple of materials require routine cleaning to avoid erosion or harmful accumulation. These materials include aluminum and wood.
For instance, aluminum is susceptible to stains and corrosion if you do not clean it regularly with a wire brush and a cleaning solution.
In addition to that, you’ve got to spray wood and aluminum with fresh water if you install it on saltwater. This will help lower the possibility of salt corrosion.
Typically, polyethylene platforms can clean themselves when it rains. However, you will require pressure washing and a bit of soap if you want them to look new.
- Fasteners
Screws and nails on aluminum and wooden platforms might corrode, rust, fall out, or loosen. In addition to that, they need routine weatherizing treatments to lower wear.
However, there are a lot of manufacturers out there that use a unique rubber coupler system. This system does not require replacement or winterizing.
- Painting
Though aluminum and polyethylene won’t fade and don’t need paint, you’ll regularly have to re-stain or repaint sun-faded lumber. This is particularly true if you want to make it look new again.
Keep in mind that you shouldn’t use toxic products. Make sure the paint is water-safe and seal it before you put it back in the water.
- Treatment
Wooden swim platforms need routine sealing and treatment to remain safe and stable. This means that you’ve got to sand the boards before you use an eco-friendly sealant.
- Repairs
Before every swimming season, you need to check your wood and swimming platforms for damages. This can include insect infestation, sharp edges, loose boards, rust, holes, splinters, warping, or rot.
However, if you’ve got a polyethylene swimming platform, you won’t have to thoroughly check it. The reason for this is that this material isn’t at risk of these damages.
You should not ignore damage. If you see one, you’ve got to act right away and fix it. If you don’t, it will only end up worsening. Thus, it might get too expensive to fix.
Compared to polyethylene, aluminum and lumber need far more maintenance and upkeep. That is why if you’re looking for a low-maintenance option, be sure to choose polyethylene.
Differences Between Various Materials
Since they’ve got to stay stable while getting submerged in water, floating swim platforms are made from the same durable materials as docks. The truth is that they’ve got the same designs as well.
To make the platforms fall and rise, construction materials are paired with various floatation systems.
The 3 most common materials used in a swimming platform include polyethylene, lumber, and aluminum. So, what are their differences? Let’s find out:
- Polyethylene
This is a form of plastic used for boats, swim platforms, docks, and other accessories. Manufacturers combine this material with airtight chambers and thick walls that help the platform stay usable and stable on waves.
- Lumber
Wooden platforms and docks are made out of chemically treated and pressure-treated wood. That is why the boards will not weaken, warp, or rot.
- Aluminum
Just like aluminum docks, aluminum platforms are completely made out of aluminum. However, some products have a combination of plastic or wood. This material offers excellent traction.
Conclusion
So, should you buy a floating platform for your property? The simple answer is yes! It does not matter if you’re going to use it for commercial or residential purposes. Floating platforms are ideal for any waterfront property.
With the things mentioned above, you’ll get an idea of how to pick the right floating platform for your needs.