Having a dock at your waterfront home greatly increases the value of your property and allows you to enjoy your property in new and exciting ways. Having a dock is useful for boating, swimming, and recreation. Decks & Docks Lumber Company, an expert in the field, shares five ways to upgrade your lakefront dock this year.
1. Choosing the Right Material
There are many different options available for dock construction that will enhance the function as well as the appearance of your waterfront area. The primary concerns when choosing a docking material are durability, functionality, and aesthetics.
Aluminum
Aluminum is a low-maintenance choice and dispels heat better than wood. Aluminum docks also help you avoid problems like nails and splinters. One of the most important considerations when choosing an aluminum dock is the choice of finish. It is necessary to put on a powder-paint, non-skid finish that will resist scratching and chipping and reduce dangerous slips and falls.
Wood
Many people feel that aluminum is not an attractive dock material. For people who are discerning in their choices, they may be happier with a wooden dock. Wooden docks can be left unfinished or stained. They can be treated to make sure that they are long-lasting and attractive over a long period of time.
Polyethylene
Polyethylene docks were very popular in the past, but they have largely fallen out of favor with today’s designers. The advantage of this material is that it is lightweight and resistant to rot and damage. However, this material can be slippery when wet and it does not retain its good looks over time.
2. Designing Your Dock Layout
Designing the layout of your dock can be one of the most creative aspects of upgrading your waterfront. The first thing you need to take into consideration is the natural limitations of your shoreline area. How much space is available? How far into the water would you like to take your dock? Do you need to follow any local or state regulations?
You will also want to consider the functionality of your dock. What kinds of boats or watercraft will be used? If you have the desire to swim or fish from your dock, you will need to keep these uses in mind. You may need seating or hand-holds for swimmers. You will also need to make sure that your dock is safe for children, elderly people, or anyone with special needs to use. If you plan to use your dock at night, you will also need safe and effective lighting systems.
After you have taken all of these factors into consideration, it is time to design your dock. Your local dealer may have sections available which can make your building process easier. You may be able to select pre-made sections and join these together to make the perfect dock.
You may need professional help from a dock company to design your lakefront space. These companies are experts at choosing materials and ensuring that your dock will be safe and fun for all of its applications.
3. Dock Accessories
When your basic dock is designed, you will be able to choose accessories. Tables, benches, flagpoles, lighting, stairs, and ramps fit into this category. Ideally, you will want to choose accessories that will make your dock more attractive and functional. Accessories should be easy to remove and install, in case you want to make changes in the future. Some accessories should also be brought in for the winter.
4. Build for Versatility
No matter what design you choose, you will want to make sure that your dock is adaptable for the future. It is understandable that you will need to switch things up in the future. Having an adaptable design means that you will be able to add or remove sections as the years go by.
5. Special Considerations
If you have an aluminum or polyethylene dock, you will want to be able to take it in for the winter. If you are in an area that regularly freezes, you will need to take special caution with your wooden dock since they cannot be removed for the season. Dock maintenance is important, and when you take care of all of your dock’s functions, you will have a long-lasting place to launch your boat, swim, or fish with your family.
