Marine Applications Expand Deck Options

Deck projects can expand to include a wide range of applications, such as light-commercial projects at restaurants or hotels as well as a variety of marina and dock projects near waterways. The possibilities can be seen in a recent dock project completed by Innovative Marine Solutions Inc. (IMS), of Breiningsville, Pa.

The project involved a dock system for a facility in North Wildwood, N.J. where IMS crews installed a custom dock, gangway and aluminum substrate by combining the panelized fastening system from TimberStrong Deck Panels with deck boards from NyloDeck in its “Desert Spice” color.

NyloDeck works well in both salt- and fresh-water applications, due to the composition of the boards, says Scott Tihansky, president and CEO of IMS. Many composite boards today contain wood flour, which can soak up moisture in high-moisture environments. Containing no wood, NyloDeck boards are made using recycled carpet fibers, which combine with a blend of resins pressed between two structural layers for reinforced strength and stability. A multi-step finishing process provides UV protection, abrasion resistance and an attractive finish.

The boards can also span 2-foot centers, reducing framing expenses, Tihansky notes. “TimberStrong's panelized fastening system allowed the decking to be installed four to five times faster than traditional fastening methods, which enabled the project to be completed in a more timely manner.”

Expanding deck expertise into new areas can often be done using already familiar products. Reaching into these markets can provide new revenues and a new client list that can help the company grow.