How to Design a Custom Dock: 8 Things to Consider

A custom boat dock is a dream place for your enjoyment. It is the place where you spend your time recreating activities. For some, it has to be beautiful and useful in functionality. For others, it has to be stable and ensure flexibility. When you plan to design a custom dock, it’s your decision what you want to prioritize.

In this article, we will discuss the eight key factors you should consider when designing a custom boat dock. Keep reading to ensure your dream boat dock design. Let’s get started.

Things To Consider When Designing a Custom Dock

The design process of your dock starts with a visualization of yours. How do you want to interact with your waterfront or recreate activities in your dock? As you begin to plan your docks, you need to keep functional activities in mind. For example, dock location, types of docks, accessibility, safety, permits, and regulations, etc. On the other hand, you should also consider style considerations. For instance, material selection, layout, configuration, accessories, etc. Let’s find out the things to consider when designing a custom dock in detail.

Dock Location: Water Depth and Bottom Conditions

If you want to determine the location, it is important to consider water depth and shoreline characteristics over time. Assess the water depth and if it changes with time or not. Consider the bottom condition of the shoreline and whether the ground is steep, sandy, or rocky.

Moreover, you should know about water conditions before the design process. That’s because calm water requirements and rough water requirements are different. The dock’s design depends on these factors. For example, fluctuating water requires a floating dock; stationary docks are perfect for sandy conditions.

Types of Docks

There are 3 categories of dock types: permanent docks, removable docks, and floating docks. Each dock type works better in different water depths and bottom conditions. Permanent docks are suitable where the water level is consistent throughout the year. It is attached to a fixed structure.

Removable docks are lightweight, and you can adjust seamlessly. It is made up of removable sections. You can easily connect together and it is also called sectional docks. Removable docks are suitable for fluctuating water levels and freezing areas.

Purpose and Activities of the Dock

Dock has a variety of purposes. You should think about how you will use the dock before the design. If your purpose is to moor your boat or swim, fish, or do recreational activities on your deck, you should consider the design for such kinds of work. The main activities in your dock will dictate the dock’s size, configuration, and functions.

Accessibility and Safety

The design of your dock should be safe and convenient to use. Consider your dock accessibility depending on the shoreline. For instance, dock stairs help to walk from steep slopes, and ramps are used for accessibility.

Safety should be the main concern for you. You should have active features like handrails and non-slip surfaces and use adequate light in your deck.

Permits and Regulations

To govern the dock construction, ensure you follow the local regulations in your area. This will ensure the smooth run of your projects. Consult a professional dock builder for guidance. Make sure he has previous experience and knows local ordinances in your area.

Materials and Construction

The materials of your dock determine its appearance and usability. The materials also impact your deck’s functionality and the need for future maintenance. You have several options to choose like aluminum, plastic and wood. Aluminum is easy to care and it’s weight is light. It is suitable for sectional docks. In addition, both aluminium and poly are long-lasting.

Wood is great for its natural beauty, but it needs painting and special care. Otherwise, it deteriorates over time. Overall, consider your taste and preference when choosing a dock material.

Layout and Configuration

The location and how you will use your dock will dictate the layout of your dock. For instance, the way you store your boat will impact the configuration. Perhaps if you want guest space for a seat in your boat, this will also impact your layout.

If you are a fun-loving person and want to add a sun deck, you will need more space in your deck. In the end, consider your preferences and your likings. If you want to create unique configurations, sectional docks offer T-shapes, L-shapes, etc.

Dock Accessories

You can enhance your comfort and usability with a custom dock that offers a wide range of features. You can customize to your needs like you can use a ladder for swimming also a kayak race to store your water toys. Moreover, you can use stairs for steep shore. It will improve accessibility to your deck.

Finding the Right Partner for Design a Custom Dock

Your dream waterfront requires a thoughtful process to bring it to reality. For this, you need expertise and experience. If you want to have a functional and long-lasting dock, you need to choose the right dock professional.

You should consult an authorized dealer who understands the compliances in your area. Also, ensure he has the experience to guide you. Read reviews and choose from referrals who have used their services.

Conclusion

In your custom docks, you will make memories that will make endless sunsets and spend your lazy day splashing in the water with your loved ones. It is not just a structure; it becomes a lifestyle if you own a waterfront property. However, when designing your dock, you need to be aware of a few things, like the purpose of the dock, the types of the dock, accessibility and safety, permits and regulations, materials, layout, etc.

By considering these factors, you can design a boat that reflects beauty and ensures functionality in your loving space. Now you can take the next step to build your dream waterfront and make it a reality. Reach out to us at Tonka Built for guidance. Let’s build your dream together!