How to Choose Materials That Withstand Harsh Marine Conditions

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May 2
3 min read

The Ultimate Guide for Building Durable Docks, Seawalls, and Boat Lifts in South Florida

When it comes to marine construction, material selection isn't just about aesthetics or price—it’s about performance and longevity. Waterfront structures in South Florida face a relentless environment: saltwater exposure, high humidity, UV rays, tropical storms, and marine life all contribute to wear and tear.

At Atlantic Harbor Marine Construction, one of the most common questions we get from clients is: “What materials will last the longest in these conditions?”

The answer depends on the structure you’re building—but the goal is always the same: maximize strength, minimize maintenance, and ensure long-term value. Here's how to make the right choices for your dock, seawall, or lift.

Understand What You’re Up Against

South Florida’s coastal environment brings unique challenges:

Saltwater corrosion: Salt is highly corrosive, especially to metals and untreated wood.
High humidity and moisture: Encourages rot, mold, and mildew growth.
UV radiation: Breaks down unprotected surfaces over time.
Tidal changes and storm surge: Require structural resilience and flexibility.
Marine borers and algae: Damage wood and attract buildup on submerged surfaces.

Choosing the right materials from the start ensures your investment holds up to all of these elements.

Marine-Grade Piling Options

Your dock or lift's foundation starts with pilings, and this is not an area to cut corners.

Recommended Materials:

Pressure-treated wood with piling wraps: Budget-friendly and durable when properly protected.
Concrete pilings: Extremely long-lasting and ideal for fixed docks or high-load zones.
Composite or synthetic pilings: Resistant to rot, marine borers, and corrosion—ideal for long-term, low-maintenance builds.

Pro Tip: We often wrap wood pilings with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) sleeves to prevent decay and extend lifespan.

Decking That Lasts in Saltwater Environments

Decking is one of the most visible (and walked-on) parts of a dock. It needs to be slip-resistant, low maintenance, and strong.

Best Decking Materials:

Composite decking (like Trex or WearDeck): Made from recycled materials, UV-resistant, and won’t rot, warp, or splinter.
Tropical hardwoods (like Ipe): Naturally resistant to insects and rot, but require oiling to maintain color.
Pressure-treated pine: Affordable, but requires regular sealing and maintenance.

Our Recommendation: Composite is our go-to for its long-term performance, slip resistance, and minimal upkeep in coastal conditions.

Choosing Corrosion-Resistant Fasteners and Hardware

Even the strongest dock or seawall can be compromised by poor-quality hardware.

Go for:

316 marine-grade stainless steel: Offers superior corrosion resistance in saltwater.
Hot-dipped galvanized fasteners: Budget-friendly alternative for lower-salinity zones.
Aluminum or powder-coated lift components: Essential for boat lifts and hoists exposed to the elements.

Tip: Avoid standard hardware store stainless steel—only marine-grade metals will survive long-term in South Florida.

Seawall Materials That Hold Up Over Time

Seawalls are your shoreline’s first line of defense. The materials must be tough enough to resist constant hydrostatic pressure and impact from waves and storm surge.

Top Choices:

Concrete seawalls: Reinforced and long-lasting when properly constructed and backfilled.
Vinyl sheet piling: UV and saltwater resistant, flexible, and often more cost-effective than concrete.
Riprap (rock): Ideal for softening wave energy and blending natural aesthetics with functionality.

Custom Strategy: We often combine vinyl walls with a concrete cap and riprap to provide strength, drainage, and environmental benefit.

Finishes and Protective Coatings

Even the best materials can benefit from added protection.

Piling wraps extend the life of wood supports.
UV-resistant coatings help preserve decking color and surface quality.
Anti-fouling paints on submerged surfaces reduce algae and marine growth.

Ask Us About: What finish options are worth it for your specific project goals and location.

Build It Right the First Time with Atlantic Harbor

At Atlantic Harbor Marine Construction, we’ve built hundreds of docks, lifts, and seawalls across South Florida—each one designed to last in our demanding coastal environment. We only use materials that meet our high standards for durability, performance, and visual appeal.

We’ll walk you through your options, explain the pros and cons of each material, and ensure your structure is both beautiful and built to withstand the elements for years to come.