Important Things to Know About Floating Docks

If you own a lake house, boat, or oversee a public boating space, having the right dock can improve the value of your property and create a perfect place for people to anchor and board their vessels. Floating docks also provide a natural space for gathering, lounging, and entertainment. However, you should choose the perfect floating dock to enjoy these benefits. Apart from the various rules and regulations of floating docks, below are common things you should know about floating docks.

What is Floating Docks?

Unlike other types of docks, a floating dock is a flexible dock that isn’t bolted or attached to the surface underneath. Floating docks move and change the height with water movements. They are best for water bodies, such as dams and lakes, with frequently fluctuating water levels.

Floating docks are available in different designs, colors, and sizes, providing an option for you to choose one that suits your vibe and unique layout. Floating docks are made to suit the following uses;

•  Residential – best for those who live in waterfront properties. They provide an exciting way of boating, fishing, kayaking, swimming, and grilling beside the water. You can choose a floating dock for different residential areas, including permanent and vacation homes.
• Commercial – the possibilities of commercial floating decks are endless. They are common in marinas, waterfront resorts, housing developments, boating schools, outdoor camps, and restaurants.
• Industrial – floating docks are highly beneficial to industrial sites with on-water tasks. They can be used as floating work dock platforms, material barges, or on-water pumping stations. Nicely designed industrial floating docks provide superior safety to workers and prevent equipment from water damage.

How Do Floating Docks Work?

Floating docks are made of air-tight and buoyant pontoons, which displace water, enabling them to float. They are made from sturdy pontoons that contain polystyrene or any other substance that keep the dock afloat at all times. The inside of these pontoons is an air chamber, which keeps the dock steady and level with the water. Such construction allows floating docks to move along with water instead of crashing against water.

While floating docks are not stationary, they can be used as permanent dock solutions. The only difference is that they can be relocated, extended, and changed, unlike fixed docks. Floating docks are connected to the shore either through brackets and piling or gangway. Other ways to anchor floating docks include;

• Full-size pilings
• Galvanized poles
• Dead weights
• Stiff arms fixed to the shore
• Combinations of two or more options above

Floating docks are in sections held together by a coupler system. The system connects different segments, enabling the dock to sustain different stress and weight levels.

What are the Benefits of Floating Docks?

Floating docks are popular on shorelines for various reasons. Among them include;

• Easy to install – unlike fixed or permanent docks, installing floating docks is very simple. Most of them are delivered pre-constructed, thus taking less time to install and remove. You can even change or modify their designs to suit your needs.
• Low maintenance – floating docks are made from tough and sturdy materials that withstand harsh weather and water conditions. These materials don’t easily rot, wear out, or require frequent painting. They are best for fresh and saline water conditions. They are also generally affordable.
• Very adaptable and customizable – you can change and modify the design, size, color, height, and length of floating docks to suit preferences effortlessly. You can even order an already customized floating dock. Most floating dock owners also prefer storing their docks safely during winter to preserve their integrity. This is a luxury that permanent docks can’t provide. You only need to add wheels to the modular segments to transport your floating dock.
•  Slip and heat resistant – floating docks have an outer layer that allows users to walk barefooted or lie on them without slipping. The outer panels maintain friction with the feet to avoid such accidents. That aside, the material is heat resistant and won’t transfer heat to your bare feet.

Conclusion

If you love fishing, paddle boarding, jet skiing, kayaking, or enjoying the breeze of water bodies, you should consider investing in a floating dock. Installing a floating dock in your waterfront property also increases your property value. Unlike permanent or fixed docks, floating docks are more buoyant, easy to install and remove, cost-effective, and very flexible. Contact Us for more information.