St. Augustine has some of the oldest working waterfront on the First Coast, and that age shows up in repair calls: rebuilds that uncover decades-old construction methods, hardware that predates current marine-grade standards, and — near the historic downtown district — permitting considerations that don't apply everywhere else.
Typical repair costs
- Decking replacement: $300-$1,200
- Hardware upgrades to current marine-grade standards: $500-$2,000, common on older Davis Shores and downtown-adjacent docks
- Piling repair near the Matanzas Inlet: $900-$2,800, reflecting stronger tidal current and marine borer exposure
Matanzas River vs. San Sebastian River
Properties on the Matanzas side, closer to the inlet, generally see stronger tidal exchange and correspondingly more piling wear than the more sheltered, industrial-adjacent San Sebastian River side. That difference is worth mentioning to your contractor since it affects material recommendations, not just price.
Historic district considerations
If your property falls within St. Augustine's historic district boundaries, expect an extra review step in permitting for anything beyond in-kind repair. It doesn't typically change repair cost directly, but it does affect timeline, so build it into your planning if your project involves more than swapping a few boards.