Every industry sees ebbs and flows, trends and traditional approaches. Around the water, the trends in marine construction tend to focus on improving longevity and safety as technology lends itself to the ability to enhance processes with each passing year. Here are a few of the trends you can expect to see in the coming year:
Related Blog: Boat Lift, Dock, Seawall and Marine Construction Showroom in Sarasota
Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastics
The harsh nature of saltwater makes the ongoing need for great materials one of the ever evolving trends in marine construction. Carbon fiber reinforced plastics have started to find their way into our industry. We've started to notice that newer water vessels that use our boat lifts and docks are made of this lightweight material. The application of carbon fiber is proving to make cruiser boats, yachts, racing vessels, and other water recreation devices lighter, stronger, and more capable of withstanding harsh elemental influences. It may be sooner than you think that we will start seeing carbon fiber composite material integrated into the construction of seawalls as an alternative to concrete or vinyl.
Integrating a Living Space
If your dock is just a place that your boat calls home, you might want to create a little personality in your waterfront property by integrating a living space and adding a deck to your dock. Built in benches, dock lighting, and lounge chairs can enhance the appeal of your property from the shore, which is an excellent feature if you're planning on selling your home. If you'll be in your home for many years to come, the addition of an outdoor living space near the water can help you get the most out of your investment and enjoy the serenity the sea brings with it.
Double Wall Piling
A new technique began emerging in the markets early last year, and you may soon see the growth of double wall piling in the near future. This technology is making it possible for marine construction projects such as seawalls and docks to be completed with less disruption to underwater inhabitants. Through the use of this technique, the volume of a pile drive can be reduced by 20 decibels as a result of the tube within a tube design that allows for one piling to be driven while the other stands unaffected, buffering the noise and vibrations.
What trends in marine construction are you looking forward to seeing come to life in 2016? Share your thoughts with us @DuncanSeaSRQ.
