Congratulations! You finally got that boat you’ve always wanted and are all set for long fishing and boating trips with your friends and family in a Texas lake or river. Answer this – How do you plan on getting it in the water or get on and off your boat? Surely, you can’t anchor it in the middle of the lake and swim to and from it every time you need to access it.
Surely, you need a dock! But what kind of dock? That doesn’t matter, does it?
Yes, it does. Whether you look online or head to a marine supply store, you’ll come across two dock types – Floating docks and stationary docks. Both types have their pros and cons for different types of boat and waterfront property owners, so choosing which one is better for you requires careful consideration.
However, fear not! In this post, we’ll share how to choose between floating docks vs. stationary docks for your waterfront so you can get the best value for your investment.
How to Choose Between a Floating Dock and Stationary Dock
Before deciding how to choose between floating docks vs. stationary docks, you need to understand their differences. In a nutshell, a floating dock rests or floats on the water surface with the help of dock floats or barrels, whereas stationary docks sit above the water surface and rest on top of pilings mounted into the lake, river, or ocean bottom. Here’s how to choose between them:
1. Cost
All docks are priced according to their build material and installation. Generally, stationary docks are more expensive since their installation is more difficult, and they’re typically made of composite wood or treated lumber. In contrast, floating docks are made of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) with air-filled chambers that keep the structure above the water. They’re much lighter and cheaper and don’t always require professional installation.
2. Longevity
A stationary dock usually lasts longer than a floating dock since they’re designed to last for decades. Floating docks are designed to be submerged in water for the entirety of their installation, making them more prone to damage and faster depreciation, especially in saltwater. With proper maintenance, a high-quality stationary dock can last for over 30 years, whereas a floating one can last between 10-25 depending on the build material.
3. Maintenance
Maintaining a floating dock is much easier and cheaper than maintaining a stationary dock. Stationary docks generally require power washing and sealant application, which is generally not a DIY job. Aluminum docks are much lighter and require lubricating regularly to prevent rust, especially in saltwater conditions. Floating docks can be removed using a simple tool kit. All you need to clean them is to remove the layer of algae that forms under them.
4. Water Conditions
This is perhaps the most important factor that will influence your decision. If you live near a waterfront with many boats and yachts, a floating dock might not be the best option since it will be more susceptible to damage. However, a floating dock is excellent for lakes and waterfronts with fluctuating water levels. Installing a stationary dock where the water is too deep will require a more expensive installation.
Conclusion
At EZ Dock Texas, we offer both floating docks and stationary docks along with a vast range of docking accessories, such as benches, solar pocket lights, railings, ladders, and more. Now that you know which type to opt for, you can speed up your purchase decision.
For more information regarding our products and docking solutions, feel free to visit our website or call (800) 654-8168.
