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When building docks, piers and other walkways that will be exposed to water, there are several materials to choose from for the framing and decking. Galvanized steel may be the best choice for these walkways for several reasons. One of the most important reasons for using this material is that galvanized steel has a long lifespan in water. Since the galvanization process increases the steel’s resistance to corrosion, it has been found that galvanized steel that is constantly submerged in water can last for upwards of 53 years, and out of water it can last over 100 years. Rarely do people stay in a home for that amount of time so getting one of these walkways built from galvanized steel will ensure that it lasts through the years for your children and grandchildren to enjoy.

The cost of building these walkways out of galvanized steel is frequently much less than other traditional materials like wood. Wood does keep the classic looks of piers and docks of old, but they are not nearly as durable as galvanized steel and are much more susceptible to rot and other forms of damage. One option if you want combine durability with the classic look of a wooden pier or dock is to use galvanized steel framing with properly treated wood decking.

When you are installing the pier or deck you will also note that galvanized steel framing is much more lightweight than timber, while providing about the same or an even greater level of structural sturdiness. Since sections of a galvanized steel pier or dock are lightweight they make it a cinch for one person to install a whole dock or pier by themselves. Galvanized steel trusses are held together by welds, not nails or screws, which means the joints will last significantly longer. In fact most companies that offer galvanized steel framing for their piers and docks are willing to cover the frame with lifetime warranties. This means that if upon inspection there are any defects in the galvanized steel frame or any stainless steel components they will be replaced free of charge. You would have to imagine that a manufacturer is pretty confident in their product to offer that type of warranty.

The fact that galvanized steel pier and dock systems often come in sections that the buyer then assembles means that there is a lot of flexibility in the layout of the dock or the pier. Most customs offer several standard layouts but because of the flexibility of these units, the possibilities are almost endless for the variety of layouts that are possible. Depending on the shape of your waterline, the number of boats you own, or the amount of people you plan on entertaining by the water, you may want to consult with the company that you purchase the pier or deck system from about getting together with a design consultant to work out a pier or deck that is custom-built to accommodate your needs. Even though there are a variety of materials available on the market to build your new pier or deck from, the best solution for a long-lasting, durable deck or pier to serve your needs is galvanized steel.