Types of Docks: What to Consider When Building

There are many different types of docks, but which one will be right for you? This comes down to three main decisions. Those being type of materials, dock style and whether it is something you take on alone or hire a professional for instead. Find the right type of dock that you can enjoy all year!

Materials Used for Different Types of Docks

There are four types of materials typically used when the building all types of docks. This makes the price of a dock fluctuate since quality materials may cost more. It can be worth it since quality materials and installation make for a longer lasting dock.

Wood

If wood is chosen as the material for the dock, there are two options. Those are hardwood and softwood. After the installation, it is key to keep up with maintenance. This can be done with power washing and staining or finishing. If wood it used and not treated, later on the wood will rot. Thus, making this type of dock not safe to enjoy.

Composite

When using composite materials there is less maintenance and no need for staining or finishing.  It also doesn’t allow for splinters to occur. This is because this type of dock material is a mix of organic and inorganic materials, meaning wood fibers and plastics. They are then bonded together with an adhesive. The maintenance that is required is an occasional cleaning since there is still some organic materials present. With the presence of inorganic material as well, it is less prone to cracking or splitting.

Plastic

This type of dock is a good choice when a lighter material is wanted. There is no organic materials used so there is no need to worry about rotting materials. It can, however, crack on occasion. Those boards need to be consistently found and then replaced.

Aluminum

If the option of an aluminum dock is chosen, it will require the least amount of maintenance. It is recommended to clean the dock when you see fit. The best way is to create a schedule to make sure it is consistent. If wanting to use aluminum material but prefer the look of wood, there is an option for you. This is through the use a powder coat to give the appearance of wood. While the maintenance is minimal, the initial cost can be the most expensive.

Stationary vs Floating Types of Docks

If you have or want a boat lift for your dock, then it needs to be a stationary dock. This is also good if the water level doesn’t rise or fall dramatically. Also, when the water has high traffic, it is safer to have a stationary dock. In contrast, a floating dock is beneficial if the water level changes consistently and easy to clean. It is important to keep in mind that this type of dock is very unstable when the water is moving quite a bit.

Building vs Buying

With all this information, you may be wondering if you should build your own deck or hire someone to do it. When building your own dock, it is important to have all the proper materials for your type of roof. That also include all the equipment. This option can take much longer, and more issues can arise if you are not properly prepared.

Another option is to hire someone to build the dock for you. This ensures a solid structure and that is extremely beneficial in high traffic areas. In addition, the builder will have all the proper equipment handy when building your type of dock.

There are many things to consider when wanting to build all types of dock. Including making sure it is done safely with quality materials/installation. If you would like more information on your new dream dock, call Royalty at 800-303-8392.