For traditional building materials, coastal saltwater environments can be extremely harsh. The water and humidity can cause warping, rotting, or rust, depending on the material, and the salt accelerates corrosion and breakdown of the material over time. The timber decking at the Quintana Boat Launch was no exception to this deterioration. Our team was called in to replace the wooden structure with a fiberglass dock decking solution that could withstand the harsh coastal conditions.
Project Details
The Quintana Boat Launch is located in Cypremort Point, Louisiana. The boat launch is used by local fishermen and boaters, as well as visitors of the Cypremort Point State Park, to access Vermilion Bay. The area frequently experiences high-tide flooding during seasonal weather shifts, leaving boat ramps like the former Quintana Boat Launch that aren’t properly elevated unusable. Storm surges from a tropical storm system in the area also increased the wear and tear on the boat launch and accelerated the breakdown of the wood. The goal for the new Quintana Boat Launch was to improve safety and accessibility, reduce maintenance needs, and increase durability and longevity, which was accomplished with the help of the DEFI Fiberglass team.
Our team replaces the 2,300-square-foot deteriorating timber dock with a durable, long-lasting fiberglass dock decking solution. We used 1 ½’’ x ¾’’ x ¾’’ mini mesh FRP panels with a pool grit surface. The mini mesh surface is perfect for docks because the design reduces the chance of items falling through cracks.
The pool grit surface created a superior slip-resistant surface for maximum safety, even in wet conditions. The panels were secured with 316 stainless steel hold-down clips and hardware. As part of the project, our team elevated the fiberglass dock decking system to address the flooding issues during high tides and storm surges.
FRP Benefits and Why it was Perfect for the Job
Saltwater Resistant – Fiberglass and FRP are non-corrosive, even in harsh marine environments. Because FRP doesn’t contain any metal, there isn’t a chance for salt attacks or corrosion. The resin used to make FRP seals the material and creates a non-porous surface. This doesn’t allow the salt or the water to penetrate the surface.
Slip Resistant – Increasing safety was a major goal of this project. Over time, timber in marine conditions can become smooth and slippery, increasing the chances of a slip and fall accident. Fiberglass and FRP can be constructed with a built-in grit surface that isn’t worn down over time. This means that the fiberglass doesn’t have to be resurfaced or have special anti-slip tape reapplied, unlike other traditional materials.
UV Resistant – This docking system was directly in the sun, without any shade. Over time, timber, wood, and other traditional materials degrade significantly in these conditions. UV rays are high-energy light waves that cause the chemical bonds to break down. This can lead to cracking, warping, and fading. FRP, on the other hand, is protected by the resin mix and its non-porous surface, allowing it to maintain its strength and durability.
Low Maintenance – Because of all the reasons listed above and the general strength, durability, and longevity of FRP, there is not a lot of maintenance that will be required for the fiberglass dock decking system. It is usually just general cleaning when needed.
Learn more about our other featured projects here.
Our team can create customized fiberglass structures to fit your exact specifications. Contact us today to discuss your project and if FRP is the right material for the job.
Check out our resources page here.
Follow us on LinkedIn!
