How to Build a Boat Dock

So you’ve built your own boat or just bought one and you trying to decide where to park it. Do you strap it on to a chassis, attach it to your pick-up and drive back and forth to the lake? Well you could do that but why not make it easier on yourself and build a dock.

Docks can be very straightforward and practical, or stylish and intricate. A dock can also be transformed into a wonderful casual entertaining area where friends assemble to enjoy themselves.

While you are excited at the prospect of building your own dock, there are a few things that you must consider before “diving in head first”.

  • Your budgetary allowance for such a venture
  • The size of your boat (bigger boats require deeper waters)
  • The proposed size of the deck (will it include a lounge area? Or just a boarding area?)
  • The purpose of your dock (embarking, disembarking or liming)
  • Water depth (see 2)
  • Soil characteristics ( ensure soil is suitable for dock building)
  • Type of dock (floating or dock with posts)
  • How far out you will need to go from land to access your boat.

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