So, you love boating and often go to the marina to rent one on weekends. While we love the dedication, why not think about getting your own boat? Buying a boat means getting a dock, too, because they are a package deal. You don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars on booking a slip at the marina because, in the long run, it will get too expensive to maintain the boat.
Of course, this makes more sense if you don’t have a lake house. However, if you have one, you need to build a dock first.
So, technically, in the battle between what comes first: A boat follows a dock.
We believe that building a dock should be your first step because loading your boat onto a trailer can get annoying. So, every time the weekend rolls around, you will find the idea of boating, an activity you love, too troublesome.
Now that you know what needs to be done, let’s take a look at some of the things you need to consider before building a dock:
Which Is Better – A Stationary Dock or Floating Dock?
The two most common types of docks include stationary and floating. The former is a permanent structure built on concrete or woodpiles, which are pushed to the bottom of the lake. This dock is very strong and stable, making it a solid option.
As for the latter, they float on the lake’s surface, making the structure versatile. A floating dock falls and rises with the changing water level, which prevents problems, such as a drop between the dock deck and water in the dry season. One of the best things about this dock is that during the winter season, it can be taken out for safe storage.
Inspect the Lake Bed
If you are going with the stationary dock, inspect the lake bed to ensure that it is sandy and fairly flat. If the bottom of the lake has too many rocks or has a big drop from the shoreline, it will be impossible to install the dock.
Inspect the Water Level
The most important thing to inspect is the water level if you are going with the floating dock. If the change in water levels is not reliable, this dock is a better option.
Superior Decking Materials
A dock is as strong as the materials used in making it. Usually, docks are made with pressure-treated wood, composites, and aluminum. You can also choose modified wood, which is tough, can resist moisture, and does not contain toxic chemicals. This material will endure harsh weather and won’t splinter.
Hire a Professional Dock Installer
Building a dock isn’t an easy process. You need a skilled set of hands to ensure that the dock is built properly. Along with picking durable and long-lasting materials, you also need to choose an experienced builder, who has completed several dock construction projects. A successful design is based on a consultation, which you should get beforehand. This way, the dock builder knows what to do.
So, now you know why building a dock first is a better choice because it saves you money and gives your boat the home it needs. Your first step is to buy quality dock materials, which you can get from EZ Dock. The company offers different types of docks, including floating docks, do-it-yourself docks, and more. For more information, call (800) 654-8168.
