Do you think your dock is a complete wreck or not up to your style? There’re many resources that will help you replace this, right from the parts, to building plans, to professionals who can help you to build and design your own dock and construct on-site with the proper dock supplies.
Docks generally range from simple structures that can cost some hundred bucks to complex systems that can cost many thousands. So, how we decide and upgrade generally depends upon how much handy you are, the kind of shoreline or lake bottom you are faced with, and budget.
Whether you are building the brand new dock or you are restoring the current one, here’re some important tips to know.
Building your own dock on a lake – things to consider
- Water depth & lake bed
- Dock supplies
- Stationary and floating dock
In today’s post, we will show you how you can build the floating dock in the right way. It is one very simple procedure that will provide an amazing spot for all types of activities, right from fishing to swimming to canoeing.
How To Build a Cheap Floating Dock?
What is the difference between floating and piling docks? Which one can be simple to maintain & cost-effective? It is good to consider the floating dock to save yourself from the headache of installing the posts for piling dock and do not have that much budget for the stone-anchored dock.
Before Building
Floating docks are highly reasonable – between $25 to $30 square foot – is simple to build by DIY-ers & hobbyists. They are good for the smaller boats, like the one used for fishing and swimming, and can adjust to the water rising & falling (not like stationary dock).
Supplies You Need
Before making any dish, you ensure you have the ingredients before you start cooking, right? Same goes with the DIY floating dock project. Before you start building your dock, you have to ensure that you have the nail gun, wrench, saw, and drill. You will need wood for its frame & dock floats where you can install below the structure.
Building Process
This sounds counterintuitive because you are installing floats on an underside of a dock, you will build this upside down. First, you have to measure an area of the dock and allot sufficient lumber to make a frame. While doing so, you will have to install a dock floats inside its frame. Flip a dock over (take help if you want it to prevent any injury) and ensure everything is safe before you build the deck on the other side.
Finishing Your DIY Project
Now you have built a frame and fixed the dock floats underside, it is the right time you build this deck – part you will walk onto getting on your boat. And this part is simple as it just involves nailing strong deck boards to its frame.
After Building
When your dock is done, you will have to test this out by walking over dry land to ensure every board is fastened securely. When you are ready, push this out in the water and fix it to a shore: it is where you will have to use a few pilings to ensure it does not float away.
Building your dock appears like a big undertaking, but it is very affordable and will make for the fun DIY project. You can take the help of the professional to know more about this process and supplies used to build your dock!
Building your own DIY dock or hiring the professional builder
A homeowner who has a few handyman skills can try to construct their dock if it is the smaller floating dock. But, building the dock is not a simple process, particularly if you do not have any experience with the waterfront structures.
Usually, the best way is to hire a professional. Even though it might cost you more upfront, you will have peace of mind we know your dock is safe and rightly built.
Building a lake dock will be as easy or as adorn as you want, but one common factor for any design to be successful is the solid construction making use of the long-lasting and durable materials. Take four featured tips into consideration when you are planning your lake dock & consider the consultation with the local marine contractor.
