Floating Docks are one of the two main docks you can opt for when building a dock. You have to decide that the floating dock you’re going for is according to your expectation. One of the significant decisions you must make is deciding whether you even want the floating dock. Once you have decided that, there are other factors that you will consider.
Factors to Consider Before Building a Floating Dock
The Use of Floating Dock
Floating docks are better for specific applications. At the same time, they are not great for others. They are great for a lake and when you want to swim near the dock. Floating docks are helpful when you don’t see a lot of traffic around. However, too much boating traffic makes floating docks unstable.
The Depth of the Water
If the water isn’t too deep, a stationary dock might be better for you. You would also want to have a floating dock in water where you know there are fewer chances of extremely low tides.
Will You Hire a Professional?
If you’re going to hire a professional, you don’t have to know anything about the construction. You will have to know the basics to ensure that the professional gets the work done per your requirements. However, if you have marine experience, you may as well build the dock on your own.
Building Materials
Floating Docks require wood, but they also require a lot of marine-durable materials that can stand the test of time. You need to buy material that is also water-resistant, so you don’t worry about the rusting and having to replace screws over time. You can also use plastic for your dock, like EZ Dock, to safeguard your investment in the dock. We have a few DIY options.
How to Build a Dock
Once you have considered the factors, only the building of the dock remains. We can break down the construction of the dock into three significant steps.
Step 1: Building the Frame
You have to know the dimensions of the floating dock. The dock is made from stringers that you will measure to make a frame. Once the frame is built, you will have to make a composite board on the opposite side to ensure that you have something to attach the floaties to.
Step 2: Place the Floats
Deciding what floats you want and the number of floats you’ll apply to is extremely important. The frame size determines the number of floats you can apply to your frame. The floating dock is built upside down, so the mounting board will be perpendicular to the stringers. It’s best to have a diagram before securing the floats to the board.
Step 3: Attaching The Dock Hardware and Decking the Floating Dock
Once you have secured the floats, you will need a group of people who can secure them to the dock hardware and then flip the dock into the water. Deck boards must be nailed to the frame so that you can complete the decking. You also have to use other nuts and bolts to ensure that the deck doesn’t float away.
Final Thoughts
Building a floating dock requires a fair amount of effort, so you must be sure when you’re constructing one. You also have to ask yourself a fair number of questions before making one.
If you want to know more about stationary and floating docks or ask any questions about docks, please visit our website: https://ezdocktexas.com/floating-docks/dock-locations/ or call (800) 654-8168.