Boat docks are not simple things. They have to deal with harsh weathers, rough waters, tides, and possible accidents, but they’re well worth the trouble. Who can’t help but want to build themselves a dock when they think of the opportunities they could have with their waterfront property? Imagine this: having a drink by the shoreline, the sunset illuminating the lake’s surface, or going on a weekend fishing trip right by your backyard.
But before you grab a pile of lumber and a saw, it’s important to take the sensible approach and first make a list of obvious and less obvious dangers to avoid.
X Marks the Spot
Before you set off on your boating adventures, you’ll have to determine the best course for your dock to take. Dock placement isn’t arbitrary. From the way the water meets the shoreline to the consistency of the ground, there are several factors that make picking the right spot a job best left to professionals. Your first task, then, is to get someone to inspect your little beach or coast.
You don’t have to get professionals to take care of the entire job, but when it comes to the fundamentals, experience trumps all.
Choose the Right Materials
Depending on the depth and shallowness of the water, the water itself, and how far you’ll want your dock to head out into the water, your dock decision will ultimately depend on a dozen different factors. But the basics remain the same: you’ll need an anchored framework as well as the right decking.
For decking, most options are made of various woods. Cedar is considered best, according to CottageLife. There are more modern and sustainable options as well, such as aluminum or PVC, or even self draining polymer decking through companies like Ergo Dock.
As per NuNomad, shallow waters do best with a floating or pipe dock with a wheel kit. A permanent dock with steel pilings driven into the lake bottom is also an option if you don’t want to worry about operating your dock. If you’re plagued with a gravel beach, then there’s also the option of installing a baseplate.
