Lake House Dock Ideas: Design and Build Your Perfect Dock

Your lakefront home, marina, or cabin isn’t complete without a floating dock house. A lake house dock is a valuable and versatile addition to any lakefront property. A nicely designed dock provides enough space for storing your water boats, skis, and jets without impeding access to the beach. It also provides a flat surface for sunbathing, lounging and makes it easy for enthusiastic swimmers to dive in and out of water.

That said, proper planning is what differentiates an unsafe and inadequate dock house that suits your needs from an attractive and overly functional floating dock house. Whether you are restoring an existing dock house or building a new lake dock house, below are essential design tips to consider.

Understand the Difference Between Floating and Stationary Dock House

Before looking at various lake house dock ideas, you should decide whether you want a floating or a stationary dock. Both dock types have pros and cons, but some lakefront properties are best suited for a specific type. That said, it is best to find answers to several questions, such as the primary use of the dock and water conditions.

Floating docks are a cheaper and versatile option that can be used in various settings. They are suitable for lakes with high and low water levels and can be attached to shorelines, pilings, or a separate stationary boat dock. Since they aren’t stationary, you can switch and reposition the dock to achieve different dock configurations.

However, on the downside, floating docks have a short lifespan. They last between 20 and 30 years, which is shorter compared to stationary docks. Another common drawback is that floating docks move with water waves. Therefore, you will always feel the water sway, which becomes an issue of concern for property owners in high-traffic areas.

Unlike floating docks, stationary docks are more durable and last longer, typically between 25 and 35 years. They are perfect if your primary goal of fixing your lake house with dock is to support several engaging water activities. Because they are stationary, you can easily get in and out of boats.

However, they work best during low water levels, as they can’t rise and drop with changing water levels. This makes them unsuitable for use in lakes with rapidly changing water levels. They are also expensive.

Choose Between Wood and Aluminum Decking

You should also choose between various dock house construction materials before equipping your lake house with boat dock. Fortunately, you only have to choose between wood and aluminum.

While the initial costs of installing wood decking are low, they have a short lifespan. Exposed to water, wood cracks, warps, splinters, and rots faster. Wood is also prone to insect damage. However, regular maintenance, such as treating wood with a protective coating and regular power wash, can mitigate these issues.

Aluminum decking has low maintenance costs and is more durable than wood. Aluminum also doesn’t rust faster like other metals. This makes it sturdy and cheaper to maintain. It is also lighter than wood, making it best for constructing roll-in docks. However, the upfront costs of installing aluminum decking might be high.

Consider How the Dock Will Increase the Property Value

Constructing a dock in your lakefront house is more of an investment that should increase your property’s value. However, property experts note that the additional value provided by constructing docks in your property comes down to the type of dock.

Therefore, while you should prioritize your needs when installing a lake house dock, you should also consider the future and how the installation will affect property price. Docks can improve your home’s appeal, especially if other comparable houses have docks. However, the dock’s condition and appeal will determine the additional value.

Conclusion

You should consider building your lake dock for various reasons. For instance, if you own water boats and other water equipment, you should calculate how much does it cost to dock a houseboat. You will realize that these costs might add up significantly, making constructing a lakefront dock an affordable option.

Regardless of the reason, working with experts in dock and boathouses installation can guarantee solid and long-lasting construction. Professionals will help you in choosing the best dock materials that suit your budget and needs.