Any number of factors can destroy a dock: harsh marine environment, storms and the overall deterioration over time. However, marine borers like shipworms, pholads, isopods and gribbles can destroy a dock and cost thousands of dollars of damage with little to no noticeable signs above the surface. Even chemically treated pilings and stringers are not immune to attack from marine borers.

In warmer climates, like Florida, the water doesn’t get cold enough to kill or slow the growth of marine borers. This means the attack on your dock by wood borers is year-round. Overtime, an infestation can spread, weakening a structure to the point of potential failure.

Piling replacement can be very costly, especially if there is a structure built on top of it, such as a boathouse or boat lift.

Snap Jackets are a PVC form that fits around the piling and are filled with concrete. They are an affordable alternative to replacing aging or damaged pilings.

Encasing a damaged timber or concrete piling with a Snap Jacket can repair the piling at a significantly lower cost than full replacement.

Snap Jackets:
• Stop deterioration immediately
• Encase and eradicate wood destroying organisms
• Restore pilings to original strength
• Prevent future marine borer attacks

First, an inspection must take place to determine if the pilings are candidates for encasement. Then the piling is measured and the appropriate size of Snap Jacket is determined and cut to fit the piling.
Installation is simple:
• All marine growth must be completely removed from the piling
• The jacket is then fit around the piling and jetted below the mud line 10-12 inches
• A sliding lock is then installed to close the jacket, ensuring a tight seal
• Concrete is then poured into the form
• A crown is then added to the top of the form, to prevent water from pooling