Dock Construction and Repair Services
Dock Construction and Repair Services
After a refreshing weekend spent hiking and exploring West Ashley Park near West Ashley, SC, Mark returned to his lakefront home, eager to unwind by the water's edge. As he approached his property, however, a sinking feeling settled in the pit of his stomach. The once sturdy dock that invited friends and family for leisurely afternoons now sagged precariously, with several boards cracked and rotting. It was a disheartening sight that marred his peaceful retreat, leaving him with the urgent realization that he needed to seek a professional dock construction company to restore the structure to its former glory. The thought of finding the right experts weighed heavily on his mind, as he knew that a well-maintained dock was essential for both safety and enjoyment at his beloved lakeside haven.
Docks play a vital role in enhancing waterfront properties, providing access for recreational activities, boating, and fishing, all while adding aesthetic appeal to the surroundings. However, the wear and tear that comes with exposure to water, weather, and heavy use can lead to the need for constructions. Unfortunately, finding quality dock construction companies can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it can be challenging to find dedicated professionals who understand the intricacies of dock maintenance and restoration. Fortunately, Charleston Dock & Construction exists - and is more than qualified to tackle your dock maintenance and construction needs.
To understand why dock construction is so important, let's first examine why you should consider dock construction and look at some common problems that dock owners face in South Carolina.
A boat dock is more than just a place to park your boat; it's the centerpiece of any waterfront property. Whether it's a private getaway or a busy marina, a well-maintained dock can prevent costly issues down the line.
Docks face challenges from water exposure and daily wear. Small cracks or unstable boards might seem minor now but can lead to major constructions or a full replacement. That's where professional dock construction comes in. It's like a tune-up for your dock, catching problems early and reinforcing its structure. A properly serviced dock not only looks great but also lasts longer, saving you stress, time, and money in the end.
A rusty bolt here. A wobbly bolt there. On the surface, such issues don't seem to be pressing. But "minor" problems like these have a tendency to get out of hand. Perhaps worse, they can deplete your bank account. Some common dock issues include the following:
Similarly, if you don't monitor your dock regularly, issues can arise unexpectedly. That's why working with a dock construction company makes so much sense. Pros know what to look for and can identify minor problems before they escalate into costly constructions. By addressing these issues early on, you can avoid the stress of emergency fixes and continue enjoying your time by the water
To have a great dock at home or at your place of business, it needs to be durable and safe. That's why dock merepairsan more than putting a Band-Aid on a problem. At Charleston Dock & Construction, our technicians prioritize:
As an example of how we reinforce your dock's structural integrity, we may need to swap out old wooden decking for a more durable, weather-resistant option. That way, we can boost your dock's lifespan and cut down on the hassles of ongoing maintenance.
Ignoring dock maintenance isn't merely a risk of potential damage. It also impacts your finances. Addressing constructions with a professional now can save you a significant amount in the long run.
Your dock is more than just a structure on your property. It serves as your gateway to the water, a gathering spot for lakeside memories, and an essential part of your home or business. However, like any outdoor investment, it faces a constant battle against the elements. Sun, water, wind, and time all take their toll. If you overlook the early warning signs, minor dock issues can escalate into major constructions-or worse, lead to complete replacements.
At Charleston Dock and Construction, our team of certified dock inspectors will tell you that understanding what to look for is crucial in protecting your boat dock and avoiding expensive constructions. Here are the five most common dock problems: what causes them, how they can impact you, and what steps you can take to address them before they spiral out of control. Whether you have a new dock or are keeping an eye on an older one, regular preventative maintenance is key for long-term use.
When you step onto your dock and hear it creak-or feel it shift beneath you-it's likely a sign of loose or warped boards. This isn't just a nuisance. It can be dangerous. The potential for tripping, unstable surfaces, and compromised structural integrity are risks that shouldn't be ignored.
The main culprits behind these issues are often fluctuations in temperature and moisture. Wood naturally expands and contracts, which can cause fasteners to loosen over time or boards to distort. Additionally, corrosion can weaken the screws or bolts that hold everything together.
To resolve this issue, you can either secure the boards with corrosion-resistant screws or replace any that have become permanently warped. While this isn't a huge construction task, it significantly enhances both safety and usability. Even swapping out a few boards can greatly improve the functionality of your dock.
The key is to be proactive with maintenance, whether you're doing it yourself or hiring dock contractors. Incorporating deck board inspections into your seasonal maintenance routine can save you a lot of time and money on constructions down the line. A few minutes spent tightening screws now can prevent hours of work later on.
Wood rot poses a significant threat to any timber dock, often going unnoticed in its early stages. It begins deep within the wood fibers, fueled by constant moisture and poor airflow, gradually deteriorating the structure from the inside out. Eventually, you may notice areas that feel spongy, soft planks, or dark spots that remain damp.
The impact of rot goes beyond aesthetics; it compromises the entire integrity of the dock. If not addressed, it can lead to the failure of crucial support beams. The solution involves replacing any damaged sections with pressure-treated or composite materials. After the constructions, using a high-quality marine-grade sealant is essential to prevent moisture and fungal spores from causing further issues.
Prevention is key to avoiding these problems. Conducting regular inspections, particularly after heavy rains or flooding, can help identify rot early on. If your dock hasn't been waterproofed in a couple of years, consider contacting us at Charleston Dock and Construction. We provide thorough inspections, routine maintenance, and prompt constructions to ensure your dock remains in excellent condition.
Without the metal fixtures on your dock, you wouldn't really have a dock. However, it doesn't take a graduate from The Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina in West Ashley, SC, to know that metal is vulnerable to corrosion. That's especially true for your:
This issue is especially common in saltwater and humid environments, and even freshwater can accelerate corrosion with incompatible metals. To combat rust, replace damaged hardware with marine-grade stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized metal, designed to resist corrosion. If you notice any rust, inspect all connections, as one corroded part often signals others are affected.
To prevent future corrosion, regularly clean your hardware and avoid mixing different metal types in connections, which can lead to galvanic corrosion. At Charleston Dock and Construction, we use high-quality materials to safeguard your dock against the elements.
Pilings are the essential support for your dock. If they begin to crack or split, particularly near the waterline, your dock's integrity is at risk. This is common in areas with freezethaw cycles, where water seeps into small openings and expands, leading to deep cracks and uneven surfaces.
You might not always see the damage, as cracks can hide below the water or blend in with old wood. If your dock feels unstable or tilts, it's a sign that something is wrong. Compromised pilings pose serious safety hazards if left unaddressed.
To fix this, you may need to reinforce or replace damaged pilings. Marine-treated wood and PVC sleeves offer durable solutions that prevent water damage and prolong your dock's lifespan. Catching problems early makes constructions easier and keeps your dock safe, saving you time and money in the long run.
If your dock is tilting, sinking, or floating unevenly, it may be experiencing issues with shifting or sinking platforms. Problems like this happen often due to:
Fixed docks can suffer from eroded soil beneath the footings, while older floating docks may have floats that take on water or collapse. Addressing these issues quickly is very important, as an unlevel dock can stress joints and increase the risk of collapse. Solutions vary based on dock design: fixed docks may need deep, erosion-resistant footings or re-anchoring, while floating docks may require new flotation devices or adjustable legs.
Regularly monitoring shoreline erosion and dock alignment can help spot issues early, preventing safety hazards. In severe cases, full dock replacement may be necessary if extensive damage occurs.
Over the last two decades, Charleston Dock & Construction has consistently built a reputation for quality dock construction for new projects and expert constructions throughout the Lowcountry. We continue to provide a service based on honesty, integrity, and superior quality construction and design. Our list of accomplishments is long, and we look forward to being the leading dock builder in the Lowcountry for decades to come.
We specialize in dock construction in West Ashley, SC as well as other dock solutions for home and business owners in The Palmetto State, including:
When it comes to constructing new docks, our goal is to ensure a seamless process from permit acquisition to the completion of punch list items, covering every step in between. With nearly twenty years of experience in the Lowcountry, we have built a reputation as the go-to choice for dock building by tackling challenges head-on and crafting solutions where others might see obstacles. Our keen attention to detail, coupled with our innovative approach to marine construction, drives us to ensure that every dock we create perfectly meets our customers' specific needs. We are dedicated to going the extra mile to deliver exactly what we've promised.
Whether you're dealing with sinking posts or warped deck boards, we provide top-notch constructions while enhancing the beauty and functionality of your dock. Our goal is to address any dock construction challenge with professionalism and exceptional craftsmanship. If you're facing any dock construction issues, let us take care of the hard work for you. Schedule your inspection today!
At Charleston Dock and Construction, we believe that every corner of our beautiful area deserves to be explored, and we go above and beyond to ensure you can experience the stunning marshlands, sea, and marine life up close. When it comes to communityoriented marine construction, choose wisely - don't leave the team you hire to chance. Opt for a trusted leader with a solid reputation in dock and marine construction.
We've been building floating docks for nearly two decades, combining expertise with creativity to produce reliable products. Whether you need a dock for a speedboat, fishing boat, or paddleboards, our commitment is to turn your vision into reality, ensuring it meets your practical needs and aesthetic desires. We take pride in our craftsmanship, attention to detail, and our ability to solve challenges with innovative solutions.
A boat lift should not only be functional but also beautiful. We dedicate ourselves to delivering alluring projects with meticulous attention to detail, setting us apart in the Charleston area and beyond. Whether you need a lift for a fishing boat or a leisure vessel, our goal is to guide you through every step of the process-from design to completion. We aim to educate you along the way, ensuring you end up with a durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing boat lift or drive-on that perfectly complements your dock.
At Charleston Dock and Construction, we bring nearly 20 years of marine construction experience, making us experts in overcoming challenges in erosion control. With a deep understanding of the Lowcountry's unique conditions, we are the clear choice for your needs.
Our strong reputation is built on exceptional customer service, quality craftsmanship, and our commitment to guiding water flow effectively to prevent issues. Let us tackle your water erosion challenges with the expertise and dedication that define our company.
At Charleston Dock & Repair, we provide expert dock construction services designed to enhance your waterfront property. Whether you need a brand-new dock, replacement of an aging structure, or custom solutions tailored to your shoreline, our skilled team delivers safe, durable, and long-lasting results.
From design and permits to installation and repair, we handle the entire process with professionalism and care. Using high-quality materials and proven techniques, we ensure your dock not only looks great but also stands strong for years of enjoyment.
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — It may look like a simple wooden box, but for many West Ashley families, it means everything. Blessing Boxes are small, community-run pantries where neighbors can “take what they need and leave what they can.”With the recent government shutdown delaying SNAP benefits, many Lowcountry families are struggling to put food on the table.The motivation is that there are people in our community who rely on SNAP benefits, and because of the government shutdown, those benefits were de...
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — It may look like a simple wooden box, but for many West Ashley families, it means everything. Blessing Boxes are small, community-run pantries where neighbors can “take what they need and leave what they can.”
With the recent government shutdown delaying SNAP benefits, many Lowcountry families are struggling to put food on the table.
The motivation is that there are people in our community who rely on SNAP benefits, and because of the government shutdown, those benefits were delayed,” Kenneth Marolda, Co-Founder of West Ashley Connects explained.
Although benefits are set to be partially funded again, local leaders say the help may not go far enough.
“As we head into the holiday season, the partial funding may not be sufficient even to meet their daily needs, let alone holiday celebrations,” Marolda added. “And this is a way that we can help provide relief.”
The West Ashley Connects neighborhood group manages several of these Blessing Boxes across the area, filling them with canned goods, baby formula, hygiene products, and snacks. Volunteers say it’s their way of helping when larger systems fall short.
“I can’t provide official aid in any other way,” Marolda said. “But we can do what we can here to help make sure that people are fed.”
There are two main ways to get involved. You can drop off nonperishable food or hygiene items at four local partner businesses: Highfalutin Coffee Roasters, Café Rocha, Frothy Beard Brewing Company, and Shift Pilates Studio. Volunteers collect these donations regularly to restock the boxes.
You can also contribute financially to West Ashley Connects through PayPal or Venmo. Every dollar goes directly toward purchasing nonperishable items for the boxes.
We’re going to do it as long as we can,” Marolda said. “As long as people will donate and as long as there’s need. So either when the need is gone or when the funds dry up.”
Blessing Box locations and donation sites are:
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - Just a week after his wife, a man pleaded guilty to charges relating to squatting in a West Ashley home.Christopher “Nate” Marcum, along with his wife, Evelyn Pollard, and Daniel Byrd, on Dogwood Road, along with destroying the personal property of the family who lived there.Affidavits stated that the trio removed the homeowner’s belongings and incinerated them in the backyard, attempting to conceal evidence that the owner still lived there. That personal property included couches, b...
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - Just a week after his wife, a man pleaded guilty to charges relating to squatting in a West Ashley home.
Christopher “Nate” Marcum, along with his wife, Evelyn Pollard, and Daniel Byrd, on Dogwood Road, along with destroying the personal property of the family who lived there.
Affidavits stated that the trio removed the homeowner’s belongings and incinerated them in the backyard, attempting to conceal evidence that the owner still lived there. That personal property included couches, bedroom furniture, and living room furniture.
A day after their arrest, charred remains could be seen in the backyard surrounded by what appeared to be tiki torches.
Before the January charges, Marcum and Pollard were the subject of months of in which multiple West Ashley homeowners alleged that they had been squatting in their homes.
Marcum’s plea hearing took place on Wednesday in front of Judge R. Kirk Griffin. Marcum’s sentencing terms are similar to his .
The terms of Marcum’s deal are as follows:
Pollard’s plea deal suspended five years of prison time to 27 months of probation, the first nine of which are being spent in a residential treatment facility. She was also referred to substance abuse counseling.
Beyond the squatting-related charges, today’s plea deal resolved Marcum’s 2023 methamphetamine charge.
Marcum’s public defender, Martha Runey, said that he has a West Ashley trailer that he plans to live in after release.
The last defendant in the case, Byrd, is set to plead on Oct. 31. Assistant Solicitor Jewell Gearding, who prosecuted Pollard, indicated during her hearing that Byrd is expected to receive probation.
CHARLESTON, S.C. – Novant Health announced the opening of West Ashley Internal Medicine, a new primary care clinic designed to expand access to high-quality, patient-centered care in the Charleston area. The clinic is located at 10-B Farmfield Avenue, Charleston, SC 29407.The new practice will open with Sarah Minter, DO, an experienced primary care physician dedicated to building long-term relationships with patients and helping them manage their health at every stage of life.“Expanding access to primary care is one...
CHARLESTON, S.C. – Novant Health announced the opening of West Ashley Internal Medicine, a new primary care clinic designed to expand access to high-quality, patient-centered care in the Charleston area. The clinic is located at 10-B Farmfield Avenue, Charleston, SC 29407.
The new practice will open with Sarah Minter, DO, an experienced primary care physician dedicated to building long-term relationships with patients and helping them manage their health at every stage of life.
“Expanding access to primary care is one of the most important ways we can meet the growing health needs of families in the Charleston area,” said Kirsten Royster, president of Novant Health’s Charleston area. “With the opening of West Ashley Internal Medicine, we’re ensuring that more patients have convenient access to trusted providers close to where they live and work.”
Primary care plays a vital role in preventive health and in the early detection and management of chronic conditions. Novant Health is planning to open additional primary care clinics throughout the Tri-County.
Novant Health has also hired a dedicated primary care patient navigator who can help patients explore which provider is right for them – and set them up with same-day and next-day appointments - by calling 843-471-1239.
“My goal as a primary care physician is to get to know my patients, understand their health history and partner with them to make decisions that improve their long-term well-being,” Minter said. “I’m excited to be part of Novant Health’s commitment to bring more options for high-quality care to West Ashley and the greater community.”
In addition to the new West Ashley location, Novant Health also recently welcomed Stewart Trimble, MD, at Novant Health Sewee Family Medicine at 570 Long Point Road in Mount Pleasant. Together, these expansions reflect Novant Health’s ongoing commitment to meet the growing demand for primary care across the Charleston area, along with advanced services at Novant Health East Cooper Medical Center.
Appointments at West Ashley Internal Medicine are now available online or by calling the primary care new patient navigator at 843-471-1239.
About Novant Health
Novant Health is an integrated network of more than 900 locations, including 19 hospitals, more than 750 physician clinics and urgent care centers, outpatient facilities, and imaging and pharmacy services. This network supports a seamless and personalized healthcare experience for communities in North Carolina and South Carolina. Novant Health is nationally recognized for our unwavering commitment to safety and the highest quality care, and we serve as a catalyst for healthcare transformation through clinical trials, leading-edge research, innovative care delivery models and robust virtual care networks. The expertise and empathy of our more than 40,000 team members along with more than 8,500 independent and employed clinicians are at the heart of Our Cause as industry leaders caring for communities across the Carolinas. In 2023, Novant Health provided more than $1.6 billion in , including financial assistance and services.
For more information, visit . Follow Novant Health on , , and .
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - A woman charged with breaking into a West Ashley home and burning the owner’s belongings pleaded guilty Wednesday but walked out of the courtroom remaining a free woman.Charleston Judge Debra McCaslin accepted a negotiated plea deal that gave Evelyn Pollard a five-year sentence, suspended to 27 months of probation. McCaslin stated she could not intervene with the assistant solicitor and public defenders’ decision, as it was part of a negotiated plea deal for probation.On Jan. 7, 2025, Polla...
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - A woman charged with breaking into a West Ashley home and burning the owner’s belongings pleaded guilty Wednesday but walked out of the courtroom remaining a free woman.
Charleston Judge Debra McCaslin accepted a negotiated plea deal that gave Evelyn Pollard a five-year sentence, suspended to 27 months of probation. McCaslin stated she could not intervene with the assistant solicitor and public defenders’ decision, as it was part of a negotiated plea deal for probation.
On Jan. 7, 2025, Pollard, along with co-defendants Christopher “Nate” Marcum and Daniel Byrd, was , along with destroying the personal property of the people who lived in the home.
Pollard will spend the first nine months in residential treatment at a facility, was ordered to pay almost $3,500 in restitution and undergo substance abuse counseling. The prosecution stated it had lost contact with one of the victims with the charge involving that individual to be dismissed.
Judge McCaslin told Pollard repeatedly that she was first hesitant to even consider the negotiated plea agreement.
“I’m telling you that I usually don’t do this. There will be no tolerance for any violations, period,” McCaslin said. “You go into somebody’s house, squat, tear up their stuff and steal all their belongings; you wouldn’t like it if somebody did it to you.” Pollard replied, “Yes, ma’am.”
Back in June, a judge and forced her to remain in jail despite a high-risk pregnancy. She was later released in July to a treatment facility.
of Pollard and Marcum’s alleged squatting in multiple West Ashley Homes dates back to the beginning of January.
So far, no law has been passed formally criminalizing the act of squatting. Removing a tenant in a private home, even in a case of squatting, still requires months of lengthy eviction court proceedings before an individual can be forcefully removed.
The other two accused squatters, Marcum and Byrd, are both scheduled to enter pleas by the end of the month.
