A dock improves the style of your waterfront property and increases its value. You will be happy to know that people searching for a lake house are willing to pay more because they want a dock.
When it comes to docking designs, there are plenty to choose from. You will surely find one befitting your budget and shoreline. If you are handy with tools, why not buy a kit. These usually come in two types: A complex one that requires you to put the parts together and then install the dock and a simple one that comes completely ready and just needs to be installed.
In a world of amateur contractors and home improvement professionals, the DIY route can seem quite tempting. If you’re savvy with a power drill and can hit a nail straight, it doesn’t mean that you can install something as complex as a dock.
Following are four attributes that a professional dock builder possesses and DIY aficionados don’t:
Having Proper Documentation and Skills
Most states require you to have a license and get a permit to build a dock. The rules vary in every place and are there to protect wildlife, boats, and people. If the government manages the land you own or the lake in front of it, you need to get a permit to build the dock.
You might not be allowed to install a floating dock in many places but not a stationary dock because the latter might harm marine life. Let’s say you are expanding your dock. You don’t need the state’s permission to start your project.
A dock builder saves you time by securing all the right documents for you. If not for them, you would forever be downloading forms online and figuring out where to submit them so that your application for building a dock gets approved.
Site-Preparation Knowledge
A disturbance in your lake might affect other waterways. For example, a shift in the waterbed might impact your canal or cove’s water flow and drainage.
Improper site preparation can cause a disturbance that might lead to a buildup of debris or silt. Your shoreline may become clogged or erode with trash and branches if the area is not finished and graded properly.
An experienced contractor won’t make mistakes that an inexperienced person can make. The contractor will prepare the site with soil anchoring and proper drainage.
A contractor experienced in site preparation won’t make the same mistakes you might. The crew that prepares your site will develop drainage and soil-anchoring without affecting the surrounding ecosystem.
Installing a Dock Based on Your Needs
Decide what your dock will be used for.
Sunbathing, swimming, and dining?
To launch canoes, kayaks, and other personal watercraft?
If it’s the former, you need to choose a sturdy material to withstand heavy foot traffic. Some docks are heavy and need to be installed with great precision. You don’t want your friends falling into the lake while having a party on the dock!
Knowledge About How Weather Affects the Dock
A dock builder’s extensive knowledge allows them to consider several factors before installing the dock. These include water level, winds, and the possibility of storms in the area. If you have chosen a floating dock, this will allow it to rise and fall with the changing water level.
And these are the reasons why you should hire a dock installer instead of wearing the handyman belt yourself. Visit the Nor Col EZ Dock website for quality floating docks. The company also offers do-it-yourself docks, covered floating docks, plastic docks, kayak launches, etc. For a quote and more information, call (800) 654-8168.
