Building a dock is a challenging process. You need all the tools and materials to take on the project yourself. The good news is that some companies offer do-it-yourself dock kits that simply need to be assembled by following the instructions.
Before you get your hands on a kit, answer this: Why do you want a dock?
Will it be a party pad, or will you use it for docking your boat? Its purpose changes the size, shape, and type of dock you choose.
Let’s take a look at some of the things you need to consider before building a dock:
Bed and Shore Conditions
The surface on which the dock is built determines how long it will keep standing. It also determines the dock’s type, the type of foundation needed, and the person who will build it. Can you build the dock, or do you require a professional?
Typically, the softer and sandier the bed, the easier it is to build the dock. You can also build a dock on a hard bed, but it will require more effort and labor.
You must determine the water depth and check the lake bed if you want a stationary dock. A rocky bed or one with a big drop from the shoreline can be problematic. There are better options than a stationary dock if the water level rises or lowers dramatically. In this case, a floating dock is better suited to the lake’s water levels.
Footer Options
Sinking wood posts into the lake’s bed is the first option that most people go with. However, this does not offer much stability. Use a PVC pipe instead, and fill it with concrete.
Choose a 12-inch PVC pipe. You might require a longer pipe if it does not extend above the water. The longer pipe helps keep your wood above water and prevents it from absorbing too much moisture. If the dock is in constant contact with water, it will rot and attract insects, weaken its integrity, and cause cracks.
Docking Material
There are plenty of docking materials to choose from, including wood, aluminum, PVC, concrete, etc. While aluminum and concrete dock materials are low maintenance, they are quite expensive. Hence, many professionals recommend modified wood.
It’s tough, beautiful, moisture-resistant, and contains no toxic chemicals. One of the best things about a modified wood dock is that you can walk on it barefoot, unlike concrete, which gets very hot in summer.
Get a Permit
A dock is an external structure that requires a permit. If your house comes under HOA, you will need their permission and get a permit from the state before you start construction.
Now that you know the things you need to consider before building a dock, take your search online and find a professional to do the job. Visit the EZ Dock Texas website and browse their range of boat docks, including floating docks, PWC docks, do-it-yourself docks, etc. For more information, call (800) 654-8168.
