4 Things to Consider Before Building Your Dock

February 17, 2020

Source: https://www.pinterest.ph/pin/387450374182100664/

 

So you are thinking of building your dock as an extension of your house. It may be easier said than done since there are four crucial things that you have to consider before making it possible.

This article will help you understand the significant factor of the desired location in building your dock. Then the ideal type of dock structure will follow since docks range from simple to incredibly complex structures – that will solely depend on your budget. Furthermore, you need to contemplate if you prefer DIY or rather seek help from professionals, then get a permit later on.

 

Source: https://www.pinterest.ph/pin/299982025162070114/

 

1. What is Your Handyman Status?

It would be great to assess your skills and current circumstances first when choosing what direction to take in building a dock. If you are a home improvement savvy, has plenty of time and resources are readily available, like popular dock kits. Then a DIY dock is within your reach.

However, if you cannot camp out for a day or two, or spend more time to make an effort for a significant task, then you might need to hire a professional to plan and build your dock.

The catch is that the up-front expenses will be higher than buying materials and doing it on your own. Although there’s also a benefit to it, such as a well-made dock for your household and sparing yourself from measuring, hammering, and drilling for many days.

 

2. Think About the Lakebed or Seabed Depths

Another thing that has to be deliberated is the lakebed or seabed depths that can impose limitations on your project. Generally, the configuration of the lake or sea’s bottom combined with your shoreline formation will inflict whether you will require assistance towards the blueprint and installation of your dock.

For example, the general rule for lake bottoms is that if it is sandy and flat, you will have a little trouble only. Also, it is deemed okay if the depth differs by only a couple of feet from the shoreline up to the dock end. However, if the lake bottom is rocky and conforms more than a couple of feet from the shore out to the dock end, then you will likely need help from an expert.

Assessing the correct depth with precision is a tough task. You have to note that many lakes are drawn down and refilled from time to time. This depends on the season and local water requirements. If the desired lake location varies significantly over time, then your dock project may need a revision. This is due to you will need a dock that can always adjust for the varying depths. In these situations, a floating dock may be your single option.

If you are not familiar with your lake’s state, it would be best to reach out to your neighbors who have docks and study how their docks function when the water depth changes. 

 

3. What is the Ideal Type of Dock in Your Desired Location?

After assessing the water depth, the next thing you will need to consider is the dock type that is best for your site.

 

  • Floating Dock

It is anchored to your shoreline and the lakebed or seabed, supported by floatation units or pontoons. A floating dock can be considered as the most versatile kind of dock since it is easy to buy, install, and align. Besides, it will rise and fall with the lake level – just like riding the tide.

Furthermore, a floating dock can be quickly removed if the lake will freeze in winter. Then you can store it to avoid any potential ice damage. The disadvantage of this dock is the lack of stability for some people find it very unsettling – since it moves every wave and footstep. 

If you are in search of a reliable manufacturer, check this floating docks manufacturer, Hisea. We can guarantee you that they only provide excellent quality of products. 

 

  • Crib Dock

Crib docks are commonly designed and installed by professionals, which is why they offer the best strength and integrity. Also, they are the most expensive and permanent dock type.

The term crib pertains to the support structures that hold the dock to the lakebed. Each crib is like a crate. The cribs are usually built from massive treated timbers and put to every ten feet or so on the lakebed filled with large rocks. The cribs give a permanent anchor for the upper structure and walkways of the dock.

 

  • Post Dock

This type of dock uses leg-support assemblies, or stanchions, placed about every ten feet along the dock to support it. The feet of the leg helps sit directly on the lakebed, making the dock a semi-permanent one.

Post docks are well-known and accessible, as well as they offer stability and permanence compared to floating docks. They are also quick to install and easy to remove in a matter of hours. Through this, they are the ideal type of docks for freezing climates, although there is a possibility that ice can damage the docks’ legs. Check out Tommy Docks' complete dock packages if you want to build your own post dock

 

4. Get a Permit Before You Start Building

You have decided on the type, size, and location to build your dock. Now, what is left is to talk with the local building officials about which permits you to need to comply and from which regulators.

 

Conclusion

To sum it up, it is essential to adhere to particular rules and regulations in dock structuring. It would be best to research first what are the things you need to know, do, and consider before you decide to build your dock.

 

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