A great addition to cleaning boats in a marina will be also to take care of any buildings that are on or near the water, and the docks themselves as they can get covered with bird droppings, dirt, spider webs, and anything like that. Wood decks, docks and piers are subject to attack by moss, insects, sun, salt spray, fish guts, water damage, physical wear, foot traffic, rain, snow, morning dew. All of which are quickly absorbed into unprotected wood causing it to swell, deteriorate and chip away, also causing shrinking, warping, splitting, cracking and discoloration. Because docks are horizontal, they hold water and snow for prolonged lengths of time. The dampness attracts pollen and fungal spores, which collect and cause this ugly discoloration and black algae. And, of course, these horizontal surfaces are subject to 40 to 50% more direct sunlight than their vertical counterparts. The bottom of a dock may be as much as 50 to 60 F cooler than the topside. Any upscale marinas, and even those that are not so upscale, would be a great market for approaching to do this. You'll need just the equipment that you have: pressure washer and source of water if it isn't already attached to the pontoon boat through your franchise. Approach the marina manager or the dock master and explain to him that you can take care of their thorough periodic cleaning and make it much more presentable as a marina and help in keeping their customers happy. You may find him giving you an exclusive for washing all vessels in the marina. If you are in the boat cleaning business you should consider deck cleaning as an additional service for you customers. If boaters see you cleaning the dock, you are more likely to have them ask you for your business card and think of you next time they need their boat cleaned. |
