Docks are a structure that allows boats and other watercraft to be secured when not in use. They are often built at lakes for recreational, residential and commercial purposes.
The first step in building a dock is creating the frame, which is then covered with decking material. Typical decking is Southern Yellow Pine, which is durable and low-maintenance.
When it comes to building a dock on your lake property, there are several different types of pilings you can use. The type you choose will depend on factors such as the weight of the dock, whether a boat lift is going to be added and how much traffic the dock will receive. The type of piling you select will also impact how long it will last. While traditional wood was the main choice for many dock projects, other materials are now becoming more popular, particularly concrete and steel.
Foundation pilings are the essential support structure for docks and piers, carrying the full weight of the structures and withstanding the force of waves, wind and other weather elements. They are often called piled foundations as they are driven, or “piled,” into the water bed, sometimes to a depth of three times their width.
The most common type of piling used in marine construction is wooden, with choices ranging from cedars to redwoods and cypress. These wooden pilings are typically treated with preservatives to extend their lifespan and prevent rot and other structural problems. They can be shaped into straight lines or into more creative designs depending on the design of the dock itself.
Another option is concrete, which has the advantage of being less costly than wood. However, it is prone to corrosion and may not be as strong as wood when subjected to the constant stress of being in a marine environment. It is important to consult with a professional when choosing this material.
Steel and concrete are more durable than wood, but are not as flexible as their wooden counterparts. These types of pilings are used more often in commercial and industrial applications as they can withstand the weight of large ships and other structures. They are also easy to repair and maintain. However, they can be expensive for residential applications and are usually only available from specialized marine suppliers. A newer option that combines the best of both worlds is composite piling, which combines wood and fiberglass to create a durable pile that can withstand the harsh conditions found in marine environments while offering the cost-efficiency of wood.
Decking
Choosing the material for your dock’s decking is one of the most important decisions you will make. The type of decking you choose will impact the overall look and long term performance of your dock, as well as the type of maintenance and care it will require.
There are a wide variety of wood and plastic options available for dock planking. Some of the most common choices are pressure treated lumber and composite. While many people prefer the natural look and feel of wood, it is often not as durable or resistant to the elements as other materials.
For the past several years, many owners and contractors have been shifting away from pressure treated wood dock planking due to its limited durability and poor performance around water. While a dock is typically located directly over the water, prolonged exposure to sun, heat, freezing temperatures and ice can quickly cause traditional pressure treated wood to warp, crack or rot.
Composite and plastic decking are a great choice for docks, because they offer superior durability and low-maintenance. They are also a sustainable alternative to wood, because they are made from recycled and/or virgin plastics. However, some of these materials can still splinter and are prone to cracking. Another downside is that these materials can have a “plastic” or fake looking appearance and feel, which some people dislike.
Cedar is a popular softwood option, as it is both attractive and durable. It is naturally aromatic and rot and insect resistant. If cedar is regularly stained and sealed, it will maintain its beautiful appearance for many years to come.
Hardwoods, such as ipe, are another great choice for decking and docks because of their strength, abrasion resistance and density. Hardwoods are generally more expensive than softwoods, but they can be a very cost effective choice for those who want a luxurious, natural looking and long lasting dock planking material.
Regardless of the type of decking you choose, it is important to use an environmentally safe preservative. Many companies now use a preservative called ACQ, which is much safer for the environment than chromated copper arsenate (CCA). Although CCA treated wood has been a popular choice for docks in the past, it has been discontinued due to its toxic arsenic content.
Structural Components
When it comes to dock construction, there are many different parts that come together to create the sturdy platform. The most important component is the decking, which can be made of wood, aluminum or no-maintenance plastic. It’s important that the decking be slip-resistant and tough, especially if you’ll be parking your boat on it. Another key component is the frame and substructure. These structures hold the dock up, and they are crucial in preventing water damage from storms and fluctuating lake levels. If you’re planning on building a floating dock, the flotation support is also an important part. These drums, which can be either foam-filled or filled with air, provide buoyancy and help keep the dock afloat when not in use.
Another critical component in dock construction is the mooring poles. These are fixed into the bottom of the body of water with an auger and then attached to the dock. Mooring poles are usually positioned so that boats can moor to them using cleats. They also help prevent moored boats from shifting and bobbing in the water, and they are essential for safety and security.
Dock pilings are often made of steel, which provides strength and stability for the dock. The most common type of piling is a H-pile, which has a large diameter and a shallow depth. This makes it ideal for pier and wharf projects. Other options include pipe piles and concrete-filled piles. The design of dock piles must consider factors such as moments and shears on the pile caps, elastic shortening and the impact of soil deformation.
Wood is a popular material for building docks because of its natural beauty and durability. However, it can be damaged by the elements and insect infestation, so it requires regular maintenance and inspections to keep it safe and functional. Steel offers an excellent alternative, as it is resistant to decay and can withstand the wear and tear of heavy usage. It’s also an environmentally friendly option when compared to other materials, particularly when it’s fastened with blind bolts. This method allows the installation of steel piles from a single side, which reduces the risk for workers on the job site.
Accessories
The type of accessories your dock construction will require depends on how you plan to use it. Your contractor will be familiar with local water conditions and able to advise you on what types of accessories are best for your specific needs. The most important are safety items such as cleats and bumpers. Floating docks should be equipped with sturdy cleats to support boat lines and help them stay in place, while bumpers protect the dock from damage by trucks or other vehicles.
Ladders are another essential safety feature. Installing them on a pier or dock makes it easier and safer for swimmers to get in and out of the water, encouraging more frequent swimming and aquatic activities. Storage areas are also popular dock accessories, allowing swimmers and boaters to keep all their equipment organized. They can also double as benches, adding extra seating for outdoor gatherings and late-night stargazing.
Dock lighting is another essential accessory, particularly if you plan to use your dock at night. A good quality lighting system will make the area more welcoming and prevent accidents due to lack of visibility. If you choose to use electricity, a power pedestal is a convenient choice that will allow you to avoid having to run a dozen extension cords all over the deck.
Piling caps are a great way to improve the look of your pilings while protecting them from sun and water damage, as well as warding off perching birds. These may seem like simple additions, but they can greatly extend the lifespan of your dock and reduce maintenance costs.
Other useful accessories include a truck or vehicle restraint system, dock seals, and a dock leveler. A truck or vehicle restraint system is a device that attaches to the dock and hooks to the frame or bumper of the truck, preventing it from rolling away during loading operations. Dock seals are used to create a barrier between the truck and the dock, providing additional protection from weather and debris. A dock leveler is a height-adjustable platform that can be operated via mechanical (spring), hydraulic, or air powered systems and can be used to assist the driver with backing up.