Now that you have a boat dock design in mind, you have to think about the body of water. Do you cruise on a lake or river? Does it have a rocky or sandy bottom? Is it shallow or deep? Does the tide change often? Is the current strong? All these factors determine the structural makeup of your boat dock construction. Frames can be constructed of concrete, treated wood, or metal. And decks are often available in wood, aluminum, or vinyl. Wooden boat deck construction is most often cedar, given this wood's light weight, ability to float, and ease of installation. Aluminum can be used in more extreme conditions since it won't rust, splinter, rot, crack, warp, or rust. Metal is flexible with the current yet durable against the elements, though the decking may get very hot in the sun. Vinyl is slip-resistant and needs no painting or waterproofing, but it may erode overtime. And concrete, since it's so sturdy, expensive, and time-consuming, is often reserved only for commercial boat dock construction.

Boat Dock Repair and Installation

Boat dock installation is not a viable DIY project. True, there are a number of reasonably boat dock installation kits that can streamline the process or enable knowledgeable DIYers to efficiently install a dock that will last for several years. Yet, for overall quality and for a long-term solution, site-oriented boat dock installation is generally best. And, if boat dock installation is best handled by a professional contractor, boat dock repair is a must for professional expertise and troubleshooting....

Nothing causes more wear and tear than moisture; therefore a pier will ultimately need some assistance. If you hire a professional for your boat dock installation, you may cut down on unnecessary boat dock repair, especially when it comes to specialized construction and proper anchoring. Plus, these experts can give advice about which model works best for you. However, eventually you may suffer a bent frame, a cracked plank, broken floats and bumpers, dry rot, or other damaged caused by ice, age, or simple waterlogging. If so, boat dock repair is a project for specialized contractors with the prerequisite skills for the job in order to ensure your family's safety and a guaranteed long-term fix.