Having your own dock doesn’t just look nice; it also adds a convenient and functional space for fun activities by the water.
Hiring a professional to build your dock is the usual way to go about it, but if you want to give it a shot yourself, plenty of Do-it-Yourself docks are out there!
Let’s review some essential steps for a successful DIY dock project!
Research & Plan
Before jumping into the construction process, conduct proper research and plan for your project. You don’t want to end up with any problems later on!
For example, one of the most important things to remember is the water conditions. From depth to fluctuations and tides and any other environmental factors that could affect the dock’s stability, you need to be aware of these things before starting.
Another thing to look into is local regulations. If any permits are needed to construct your dock, you’d want to acquire that before you start.
Once you’ve determined that you can build a dock, you can start looking into different types of docks to determine what suits your needs. Some of the more common types are floating docks, piling docks, and crib docks.
From here, you can move on to the design and layout of the dock itself. This includes the basic structure and any extra features like ramps or benches.
Tools & Equipment
You need the right tools for a sturdy and stable dock!
It’s a good idea to opt for decking materials that are weather resistant and have good traction. PVC decking or composite decking are some examples.
You should pick the right material for the frame, depending on the type of dock you’re building. Pressure-treated wood, aluminum, and composite materials are commonly used for strength.
Also, make sure you have the right hardware. From the bolts and screws to power and even hand tools, be sure you have everything you need before starting your project.
The Construction Process
If you haven’t had any experience with construction before, it’s probably a good idea to leave it up to the professionals. If you want to keep at it yourself, though, the process includes some important steps to follow.
First, you must establish the perimeter using stakes and string. Make sure your dock’s orientation aligns with the direction you want. Now you can build the substructure – this depends on the type of dock you’ve chosen. For floating docks, this would mean flotation devices like barrels, while other docks may need vertical posts for foundation.
Now you can attach the joists and secure the decking material on top. Make sure you leave enough space for water drainage! Once you’re done building, you can add any accessories, such as benches or lighting.
Make sure to incorporate safety measures such as non-slip surfaces, handrails, and any life-saving equipment! Safety for yourself and any visitors should be your first priority.
If you conduct your research correctly and stay on top of maintenance afterward, your DIY dock will serve you just fine. That said, constructing a dock yourself when you’ve never done so before can be quite risky, so it’s always a better idea to have a professional construct it for you.
Nor Col EZ Dock offers dock-building services for the best types of docks, EZ Dock. They also provide accessories that allow you to expand your floating dock and spruce up the platform. For more information, call (800) 654-8168.
