Boat docks play a significant role on waterfront properties. Many homeowners put a lot of time and effort into making their dock because it is more than just a platform that allows them to get in and out of their part. It becomes a part of their lake house and increases its value. It presents them with space and the opportunity to throw BBQ parties and have family get-togethers.
So, the decking material you choose for your dock needs to be durable and strong. It must offer functionality and have a design that makes your property stand out and serve its intended purpose.
A dock needs to match its surroundings and environment to hold up better in harsh weather. Whether you are thinking about rebuilding your dock or installing a new one, you need to be careful with the material you use, or you will end up with cracked or rotting boards a few years later.
Here are some of the best decking materials you can choose from:
Composite: Durable
Nowadays, most boat owners opt for composite because this material is durable and fairly dense. You can say it’s a green option because many brands use recycled plastic and wood to make it. Since this decking is manufactured, it is available in multiple colors and textured surfaces.
However, composite does have some drawbacks. The material is quite heavy, which makes its installation hard. Moreover, it gets hot under the sun and is susceptible to moisture. It needs to be coated with a sealant regularly to prevent any damage.
Vinyl: Vibrant Color Options
The most common decking material is vinyl, and it is an inexpensive option. However, vinyl might not prove so affordable in the long run because it deteriorates faster and needs to be replaced immediately. The good thing about vinyl is that you can buy it in fake wood grain texture. You will also get plenty of colors in it, but they will fade pretty fast.
Vinyl decking has the same issue as composite, including getting too hot under the sun. In winter, extremely cold cracks vinyl and makes the platform a death trap.
Treated Wood: Inexpensive
Most people like the beauty of treated wood for docks. If you are on a budget and cannot afford real wood, this option is the best. You will get a high-quality material that can withstand harsh weather at a low price.
One weakness that treated wood possesses is that it requires regular maintenance. You need to get the dock resealed from time to time to prevent it from absorbing moisture.
Aluminum: Low Maintenance
Aluminum is one of the most durable decking options. Since this material is lightweight, it is easy to install and does not require much maintenance. The only issue with aluminum is its high price tag. Moreover, it gets extremely hot in summer. Though it is susceptible to denting and rusting, it still lasts longer.
So, which option do you think will suit your lake house the best and stay true to its form according to the environment?
To get your hands on quality decking material, visit the Nor Col EZ Dock website. The company offers boat docks, covered floating docks, industrial floating docks, etc. For more information, call (800) 654-8168.
