The Pitfalls of Prioritizing Cost Over Quality in Marine Construction

Marine construction encompasses projects such as docks, boat lifts, piers, boardwalks, and seawalls. Our industry as much as any, is a sector where proper cost considerations play a crucial role in making an educated and financially responsible decision. Opting for the cheapest solution is not always the best approach, given the complex factors that impact both the short-term and long-term sustainability of these projects. 

1. Complexity and Technical Requirements

Marine construction projects are inherently complex due to the challenging environment in which we operate in. SW Florida and our environment are no different. The marine setting exposes construction materials and techniques to unique stresses, including saltwater corrosion, dynamic tidal forces, and adverse soil conditions. Limestone, clay, rock, compact sands, and other soil conditions are prevalent in many of our working geographies. These factors require specialized materials and construction methods that are often more expensive but necessary to ensure the project's integrity and longevity. Proper piling and seawall penetration is the foundation for any projects long term stability. 

2. Safety Concerns

Safety is always paramount where the stakes are often higher due to the challenging working conditions that marine construction is a part of. Barges, overhead cranes, piling hammers, and other heavy equipment are part of almost every one of our project's work scope. Cheaper solutions may cut corners in safety protocols, risk assessments, and quality assurance processes. This can result in inadequate structural support, insufficient safety measures for workers, or failure to comply with regulatory standards. At Stokes Marine, all of our Crane Operators are OSHA required CIC or NCCCO crane operator certified. We also hire a 3rd party safety and consultation company, US Safety, to administer monthly random job site inspections to ensure we practice what we preach and adhere to strict safety guidelines. 

3. Long-Term Durability and Maintenance

Marine structures are exposed to harsh conditions over extended periods, making their long-term durability a critical factor. While a lower-cost construction might seem appealing initially, it often leads to higher maintenance costs and a shorter lifespan. This is especially true in our local environments prone to extreme weather conditions and saltwater exposure. We have seen recently constructed docks whose pilings weren't driven to proper penetration that have experienced "uplift" from recent storm and high tide events. Entire dock structures have had to basically start over by driving new pilings to proper penetration, incurring a significant cost by remobilizing barges. Choosing the right boat lift is another critical component of the decision process. Compromising on cost and settling for anything less than the best boat lift makes little sense. Most projects have more in the cost of the customers boat(s) then they do in the cost of the project itself. At Stokes Marine, we sell hands down the best boat lift in the business, a Golden Boat lift. Golden offers a patented SEA Drive gear box and its lift has a welded aluminum body and frame which is far superior to a bolted one. Backed by thirty years of manufacturing boat lifts, their knowledge and customization of boats lifts allows us to bring you the finest boat lift possible anywhere in the world. With the best boat lift warranty in the business accompanied by being the worlds largest boat lift manufacturer, Golden has sold near 100,000 boat lifts in close to 150 countries worldwide.
       
4. Conclusion

In Marine construction, the adage "you get what you pay for" holds significant weight. While cost is an important consideration, it should not overshadow the critical aspects of quality, safety, and durability. Do your homework!
Does this contractor have the proper equipment to set pilings? Do they use a pile hammer or do they jet them? What happens if they hit hard bottom and can they guarantee proper piling penetration?  What boat lifts do they sell? Do they service them as all lifts require routine maintenance? Do they even have a full time dedicated Service Team who is qualified to work on their boat lifts? Do they offer a warranty on their work craftsmanship in their contracts? Do they offer a warranty on their boat lifts? Do they recommend marine qualified electricians, plumbers or just the cheapest option? Do they know how to navigate the local, state, and federal permit process that most projects require? Do they carry the proper insurance coverages such as a Longshoremen's (USL&H)? Are they members of the local and state industry associations such as Cape Coral Construction Industry (CCCIA), Lee Building Industry Association (BIA), Marine Industry of SW Florida (MIASWF), Florida Marine Contractor's Association (FMCA), and all of of the local Chambers of Commerce? Prioritizing quality over mere cost can ensure successful, sustainable, and safe marine construction projects that stand the test of time.

 

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