If you have a big family and live in a lake house, the chances are that you have a dock.
Before we talk about anything else, answer this first: Is your dock safe for your kids?
Here’s a scenario that will help you understand what we are trying to say:
Imagine your kids playing on the dock. They are trying to race each other and see who will get to the end of the dock first. As one of them reaches the end, they slip and fall into the water. Horrified, the other one races to the house, shouting that their sibling fell into the water. You come running and dive right in and save your kid just in time.
This accident could have been easily avoided if the dock had railings. Also known as decking, the railing is an essential part of a dock. It’s usually the first thing people see when they walk on a dock. Railing signifies safety, and from an aesthetic point of view, they make your dock look complete.
Now that you know why installing railing on your dock is important, let’s talk about which material you should choose.
Choosing the Right Railing Material
The three most common railing materials that dock owners usually go for are aluminum, stainless steel, and wood. Following are the pros and cons of each railing material:
Wood
When it comes to affordability, the number one choice of dock owners is wood railing. Here’s why:
Pros
- Available in many designs and colors
- Can be re-coated to give it a brand new appearance
- Budget-friendly; can be easily installed
Cons
- Requires a lot of maintenance
- Needs to be repaired once every year to make sure there are no splinters that might cause a crack in the middle
- Needs a new coat of finish with a sealant to protect it from harsh weather conditions
Aluminum
Everyone loves the regal look of iron, and if you are looking for a material that won’t break your bank, consider aluminum railing. Aluminum gives a high-end look at an affordable price.
Here’s why you should choose this material:
Pros
- Less prone to corrosion and rust
- It resists pitting, fading, and staining
- Available in various textures, designs, and colors
- You get to save on maintenance costs
Cons
- It might not match with your home’s exterior
Stainless Steel
Last but not least is stainless steel, which is somewhat like aluminum. Stainless steel is mostly used for cable railing and is a popular indoor and outdoor choice due to its attractive benefits. Here’s why:
Pros
- Low maintenance
- Weather resistance
- Cost-effective
Cons
- More expensive compared to other railing options
In conclusion, an aluminum railing is the best option on two fronts: affordability and durability. If you are looking for quality railings for your floating dock, visit the website, EZ Dock. The company offers different types of docks, as well as docking accessories. To request a quote, email them here. For more information, call (800) 654-8168.
