What is the cost of replacing a dock stringer?

Hey there! As a stringer supplier, I often get asked about the cost of replacing a dock stringer. It's a question that doesn't have a one - size - fits - all answer, as there are a bunch of factors that can influence the final price. In this blog, I'll break down these factors and give you a better idea of what you might expect to pay.

1. Material Costs

The type of material you choose for your dock stringer plays a huge role in the cost. There are several common materials, each with its own price range.

Wood

Wood is a classic choice for dock stringers. It's relatively inexpensive compared to some other materials. Pressure - treated lumber is a popular option. You can usually find a decent quality pressure - treated wood stringer for around $20 - $50 per linear foot. However, the price can vary depending on the species of wood. For example, cedar is more expensive than pine because it's more resistant to rot and insects. Cedar stringers might cost anywhere from $30 - $70 per linear foot.

The problem with wood, though, is that it doesn't last forever. It can rot over time, especially if it's constantly exposed to water. So, while the upfront cost is lower, you might end up spending more in the long run on maintenance and replacement.

Steel

Steel stringers are known for their strength and durability. They can handle heavy loads and are less likely to be damaged by environmental factors like water and pests. But all that strength comes at a price. Steel stringers typically cost between $50 - $150 per linear foot. The cost can be higher if you need a special grade of steel or if the stringers are custom - made.

One advantage of steel is that it has a long lifespan. You won't have to replace it as often as wood, which can save you money in the long term. However, steel can rust if not properly coated, so you'll need to factor in the cost of regular maintenance.

Composite

Composite materials are a newer option in the dock stringer market. They're made from a combination of wood fibers and plastic. Composite stringers offer the look of wood without the rot and maintenance issues. They usually cost between $40 - $100 per linear foot.

Composite materials are more expensive than wood but can be a good middle - ground between wood and steel. They're relatively low - maintenance and have a decent lifespan.

2. Labor Costs

Replacing a dock stringer isn't a DIY job for most people. You'll likely need to hire a professional contractor, and labor costs can add up quickly.

The hourly rate for a contractor can vary depending on your location and the contractor's experience. On average, you can expect to pay between $50 - $150 per hour. The amount of time it takes to replace a stringer depends on the complexity of the job.

If the dock is in a hard - to - reach location or if there are other structural issues that need to be addressed, the job will take longer and cost more. For a simple stringer replacement, it might take a contractor a few hours. But for a more complex job, it could take a full day or more.

3. Quantity

The number of stringers you need to replace also affects the cost. If you're only replacing one or two stringers, the cost will be relatively low. But if you need to replace an entire dock's worth of stringers, the cost can be substantial.

Many suppliers offer bulk discounts. So, if you're replacing a large number of stringers, it's worth asking your supplier if they have any special pricing.

4. Additional Costs

There are also some additional costs that you might not think about at first.

Permits

In some areas, you might need a permit to replace dock stringers. The cost of a permit can range from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars, depending on your local regulations.

Disposal

You'll need to get rid of the old stringers once they're removed. The cost of disposal can vary depending on the type of material. Wood stringers are usually easier and cheaper to dispose of than steel or composite ones.

Conveyor Stringer Frame belt conveyor stringer2

Examples of Cost Estimates

Let's look at a couple of examples to give you a better idea of what the total cost might be.

Example 1: Small Dock with Wood Stringers

Suppose you have a small dock that needs two wood stringers replaced. Each stringer is 10 feet long. You choose pressure - treated pine, which costs $30 per linear foot. So, the material cost for the two stringers is $30 x 10 x 2 = $600.

If the contractor charges $75 per hour and it takes them 3 hours to complete the job, the labor cost is $75 x 3 = $225.

Let's say the permit costs $50 and the disposal of the old stringers costs $30. The total cost for this job would be $600 + $225+ $50 + $30 = $905.

Example 2: Large Dock with Steel Stringers

Now, imagine you have a large commercial dock that needs 10 steel stringers replaced. Each stringer is 20 feet long. The steel stringers cost $100 per linear foot. So, the material cost is $100 x 20 x 10 = $20,000.

If the contractor charges $100 per hour and it takes them 20 hours to complete the job, the labor cost is $100 x 20 = $2000.

The permit might cost $200, and the disposal of the old steel stringers could cost $500. The total cost for this job would be $20,000 + $2000+ $200 + $500 = $22,700.

Where to Find Quality Stringers

If you're in the market for stringers, I can help you out. We offer a wide range of stringers, including Conveyor Stringer Frame and Belt Conveyor Stringer. Our stringers are made from high - quality materials and are built to last.

Whether you need wood, steel, or composite stringers, we've got you covered. We can also provide you with a quote based on your specific needs.

Conclusion

So, as you can see, the cost of replacing a dock stringer can vary widely depending on the material, labor, quantity, and additional costs. It's important to do your research and get multiple quotes before making a decision.

If you're interested in purchasing stringers or have any questions about the replacement process, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help you make the best choice for your dock.