The last party you were invited to at your friend’s lake house was hosted on a dock. How the platform was decorated and furnished had you thinking about your own lake house and how big a dock you could build.
Three key factors generally dictate the best size and shape for a dock.
These include:
- The Purpose of the Dock
How will the dock be used? For example, is it for docking your boats or an entertainment area? If it’s the former, a small dock size that allows you to easily access and exit the boat will do. If it’s the latter, you need to consider a few things, such as the load, wind, and current.
- The Shoreline
Shorelines come in different sizes and shapes. You must ensure that your dock will work with Mother Nature ― the tide.
- Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DF) Regulations
Many municipalities dictate a dock’s distance to property, size, how low it is to the ground, etc. As for the DFO, the organization enforces regulations for fish habitat.
Size Options
Typical dock sizes range from 8” to 24”. How big of a dock you want depends on the size of your property. If you have a waterfront property with little space, the ideal dock size for you is 8”. This size might seem too small, but if you want a platform that gives you easy access to your boat, it is the best size.
If you want a little more space and have multiple boats, consider a dock size of 16”. You will have ample room to go swimming, get a tan, and fish. Lastly, if you want a party pad, 24” is an ideal size. Imagine hosting parties with people dancing, some lounging on the sofas around the fire pit, a grill on the side, and outdoor lights illuminating the entire dock. A 24” is the perfect option if this is what you want.
Dock Layout
Once you have finalized the size, you must decide on the layout. Some of the most common designs include L-shape, U-shape, and T-shape.
Boat Slip Size
If you have a 22 feet boat, it doesn’t mean the slip needs to be 21 feet. Extra space is required for maneuvering. If you have a Jet Ski and a drive-on dock, you will need more room to safely drive the boat on the platform.
In conclusion, before choosing the dock size, ask yourself what purpose the platform will serve. If you have enough space for a 24” dock, you can use it to secure your boats, host parties, and have family dinners on the weekend. Remember to focus on the dock’s material to ensure it won’t weaken under high load.
Looking for more clarification regarding the dock’s size? Call Nor Col at (800) 654-8168. They are experts in building all types of boat docks, including floating, canoe, PWC ports, etc. Visit their website for docking accessories for entertainment purposes.
