How to Paint Boat Docks – Dock Paint Guide

Keeping your boat dock in optimal shape is just as important as maintaining your boat. Your boat dock is subject to the elements that cause abuse and wear. Prevent spending a fortune on future repairs by learning how to paint boat docks. Just a few coats of the right materials on your permanent boat dock will not only protect it from the weather and elements but also give it a more appealing look. In addition, using a non-slip paint prevents slips and falls.

Paint Boat Docks Step #1 – Preparation

We can’t tell you enough how important it is when tackling any project that you take the time to prepare. When a paint job goes wrong, it is often the result of a lack of preparation. Prior to painting, you need to ensure you have a clean working surface. Sweep off the dock and rid the entire area of any debris or dirt. If you are dealing with cement, you may need to use a pressure washer to thoroughly clean the area. In addition, now is the right time to repair any damage you notice on the dock. You don’t want to paint boat docks that have cracks or holes in them.

Paint Boat Docks Step #2 – Primer

After the dock is cleaned, you are ready to prime the area. If you are working with a concrete surface, you can use a fluffy paint roller. If the dock is aluminum or wood, apply your primer with a smooth roller or large paintbrush instead. This enables the primer to go on smoothly. It’s important to note that if you are painting concrete with Durabak, you don’t need primer or sealant as our product bonds to concrete easily. Concrete isn’t the only thing our formula bonds to; you’ll also find it works well with metals, woods and other coated surfaces.

Paint Boat Docks Step #3 – Paint

Once the primer has dried completely, you are ready to mix up your paint and pour it out into the roller pan. If you are using Durabak, feel free to paint, roll or spray on your formula. Make sure you cover both the top surfaces and the sides as well. Once the first coat has dried to touch, you are ready for a second coat. Sometimes, this takes an entire day depending on the product you use and the weather conditions. Prior to using the boat dock, you’ll want to allow the paint to cure for a few days. It’s wise to post signs or rope off the area while it is drying.

Other Things to Paint

Boat docks aren’t the only surfaces that benefit from having a fresh coating on them. We’ve given you guides on Painting a Concrete Porch, How to Paint an Aluminum Boat and How to Make a Horse Trailer Ramp Less Slippery. We also have a textured product that works great for applying a non-slip surface on your boat dock. We’ve even written an informative article on How to Create Non-Slip Concrete Surfaces to make it easier for you.

Durabak Dock Paint Can Help

When you are looking for the right product to paint boat docks, it’s essential to consider what Durabak can do for you. Not only does our formula protect from slips and falls, but some other qualities make us unique, including:

• UV resistance
• Waterproof
• Durable
• Flexible – won’t peel or chip
• Rust-proof
• Vibration Dampening
• Anti-Corrosive

Did you know that the grit in our textured formula comes from recycled tires? That means you can feel good about helping the environment as well. The U.S. Navy and Kenworth both trust our product; so should you!

Want to learn more? Check out our guide on the best paint for wood!