Carrying Out Construction Work

Posted on: 31 July 2019

Over time, your boat ramp and dock may take a beating from the elements and may require repair or replacement depending on the magnitude of damage. Also, you may want to upgrade your boat ramp to accommodate large boats. The scope of work during upgrading includes the demolition and removal of the concrete ramp, beams and dock and the installation of a new pier. Improvement ensures that the ramp is safe to handle boats of different sizes. There are some guidelines for upgrading your private boat ramp. The information is useful for owners of resorts and campgrounds that have private boat ramps.

Site Considerations -- Upgrading your boat ramp entails civil works, but special consideration should be placed on various aspects such as the siltation rate of the waters, water depth, site accessibility and impact on marine life. The bed of the river, lake or ocean at the site must be able to support the ramp without the need for civil works such as dredging, installing pilings, grading and making other site preparations. Avoid sites with steep slopes that can make boat ramps hazardous to use or difficult to access. A ramp must not be constructed in a manner that obstructs flowing water or that becomes a navigation hazard. 

Permits -- In some localities, construction of a boat ramp will require several permits. For example, when you intend to upgrade your boat ramp in a fragile ecosystem with unique plants and animals, then you may need an environmental impact assessment license before any works can begin. Also, if you intend to remove aquatic plants, you may need a permit from the relevant department. Local councils and other agencies may require you to get their permits or may block the project altogether. Do your research before upgrading a private boat ramp. 

Dewatering -- Dewatering the area in readiness for ramp construction is crucial. There are several methods for dewatering that you should discuss with your marine contractor. The bottom line is that the method you use should be cost-effective, safe, and environmentally friendly. The dewatering method should be capable of working in different surfaces, such as sandy and rocky waters.

Slope -- During construction of a boat ramp, the contractor should bear in mind the slope of the ramp. The ramp should have a gradient that enables the boat to launch with ease without a vehicle, carrying the boat, getting very close to the water. Ramps should have a slope of 12 per cent to 15 per cent so that boaters do not struggle when pulling boats from the water. A 15 per cent slope implies that for every 1.5 metres of drop from the ramp to the water, you should provide for a 10-metre length. Anything less than 12 per cent will cause a vehicle to go farther into the water for the boat to float free from the vehicle's trailer. 

For more information, contact a marine contractor.