For some boaters, having a dock is a practical need, while others see it as more than just a platform where they can anchor their boat. How do you make a simple structure beautiful without spending too much on it?
In our opinion, the key to designing, building, and accessorizing your dock is to think of it as your living room. You are creating a space where you can sit, relax, fish, or have a party. Hence, you must determine what features you will add to your boat dock.
First, let’s take a look at the most important factor in designing a dock:
The Material Matters
Depending on the use of the dock, you need to decide on the suitable material for the platform. One of the most popular choices is wood, as it happens to be inexpensive. Though its upfront cost is low, it does require regular maintenance with sealing and staining to prevent the wood from rotting. The best thing about wood is that it improves curb appeal and is available in various colors.
Next up is aluminum, which is also a popular choice but mostly in commercial applications. Aluminum is costly but requires little to no maintenance and lasts longer than wood. It’s lightweight and can be installed quickly, making it a perfect decking option if you want to take on a DIY job. However, aluminum lacks wood’s allure, so lake house owners seldom pick it.
Now that you know the basics of building a dock, let’s take a look at its top four residential boat dock designs:
1. A Two-Story Dock
A two-story dock is a clever design that offers you extra space. The dock can be furnished with a sofa set and a minibar. Below, the space can be used for docking and mooring. You can install storage boxes on the below dock for keeping fishing gear and other equipment.
2. The Chill-Out Zone
How’s the weather in your area?
If it’s a mix of hot and cold, why not install a hammock or swing seat on your dock facing the lake?
Don’t just leave it hanging there! Suspend it from a wood awning and wrap a trail of leaves around it. Try making the structure as magical as possible with potted plants. The awning will protect the hammock in case it rains.
3. Porch With a Hot Tub
You have the entire lake at your disposal for swimming, but sometimes, lounging in hot water makes your stress disappear.
This dock design is simple but with a luxury addition. You can expand the dock as much as you want but in a round shape. Install the hot tub on a raised platform, and you will have a prime view of the boats on the lake.
4. Simple Transition
How about installing a dock that does not look like one? This transition design combines land and docks seamlessly. The fine line where the grassland ends will be from where the boat dock begins, and it can be in any shape. Furnish it with a few wicker chairs, a table, and an umbrella for sun protection.
We bet you never thought your boat dock could be used in such a manner, right? Well, our design ideas prove that you can not only use your dock for mooring but also throw a party for your family and friends. Having a get-together on your dock in summer will be a welcome change.
If you are looking for quality floating docks or Residential Boat Dock Designs, visit the EZ Dock Texas website. The company offers aluminum decking kits, which you can assemble by yourself easily. For more information, call (800)654-8168.
