When it comes to deciding to own a dock, this can be a relatively easy decision to make. Owners that are there temporarily, don’t own the place where the dock is being installed or are using the dock for example for an event might decide for the Floating dock. What advantages has one over the other? Today we will be looking at floating docks and the benefits that come with owning one.
Floating dock is more affordable, easy to use, and doesn’t require electricity or workforce to operate.
Benefits and facts to know when you decide to go for a floating dock
Easy and Inexpensive Installation
The floating docks we have around are very simplistic in their design and structure. Floating docks can be purchased and delivered completely assembled while others are designed for easy assembling for those who love to do it themselves. Installing a basic floating dock is not considered a typical marine construction project, so, installation does not require the use of any special equipment or the experience of a marine constructor. However, it is advisable to obtain proper building permits. Installing a basic floating boat dock is usually much less expensive than other types of boat docks as can be seen from the above. Different dock types require more expertise, money and most times need the hands of a constructor.
Easy Maintenance
Necessary floating docks are design and structure with materials requiring low maintenance an example is a polyethylene. Due to the nature of these materials, there is no need for further painting or the like, so you can set up your floating dock and start enjoying it right away. And when you want to have it all shiny again, using soap and water is the magic wand. You don’t need to worry about getting special cleaning materials.
Modular Style
One thing floating boats come with is a straightforward design. Modular floating boat docks has fixable sections and segments that you can configure or put together depending on your taste, style or preference. This is an advantage to you or any boat owner for that matter. It gives you an opportunity to be creative with your boat dock. Marinas do take advantage of this feature of a floating dock; slips can easily be configured to accommodate boats of varying sizes.
Adjusts to different water conditions
One thing that dock owners need is the peace of mind that their boats can handle changes in water level. This is true for a floating boat dock because it floats on top of the water. A floating boat dock is always at the same height as your boat or watercraft allowing you to go in or out with ease. You will have use of your dock no matter how high the water rises or how low the water levels drop. However, low water levels can leave you high and dry, unable to move your boat without scraping the bottom.
Easy Removal
Floating boat docks have an extra advantage of being easy to remove or put back in. There is no need to worry about your boat getting damaged in case of harsh weather changes. Floating docks are easy to withdraw from the water thus allowing you to remove and keep them safe against an incoming storm easily.
These are the significant benefits of owning a floating Boat dock. If you love to have a dock, hopefully, the benefits shown above have given you a reason to rethink the type you may want to have. Just in case you want to be more satisfied, you may have a look at the post on fixed Boat dock (add a link here) And be ready to enjoy life at a whole new level.
How to build an affordable floating dock
To build a floating boat dock, you need to have basic skills such as cutting and measuring. With these skills, floating dock design will be an easy task and you will be able to get your dream of a dock on your pond started.
Measure your boat or waterfront to determine the maximum length and width you can carry. Not all dock builders are boat owners and not all boat owners want a dock like this. You have the choice between 3 basic configurations for your plastic floating dock: straight, T and L, each with its own advantages. The straight pier is more economical and works better in shallow water. The L-shaped model offers more space for the hall and finally the T-shaped basin offers plenty of space for standing people.
Docks are usually of two types: the floating and the fixed dock. Fixed dock is more expensive but provides security. However, the floating dock is much cheaper and is recommended for small types of boats.
Tools and materials needed:
- Pressure treated lumber
- Rope
- Gallon plastic barrels
- L-shaped braces
- Screw the hook
- Galvanized nails and screws
- Screwdriver/ Drill
- Silicone caulking
- Hammer
The construction steps of a floating boat dock are as follows:
Step 1: Building the frame
When building the frame, get as close as possible because the product will be too heavy and you will not want to move it away. Place the 2×8 panels in a box and secure them together. Make sure to effectively guard the two sides of the square inside the box by making an 8 x 8’4 “square. You can use 4 x 4” pieces in the corners as a right angle for you plastic floating dock.
At this point, you can also equip the drums. Make sure the caps are tight, then apply a silicone blocking coat to the cap to make sure it is tightly closed and to prevent leaks. You may not fill the barrels with any type of ballast but some people suggest doing it for stability.
Step 2: designing the frame support
Now that you have the basic shape, we need to add supports. Measure the middle of the square and place the 2 by 4-inch support on it.
The rest of the bottom layer plays two roles. They support the frame and keep the barrels off the platform and prevent them from pushing against the decking. Place two panels when the image appears and place a barrel on top. Replace the panels until the barrel rests well between the plates without touching the ground, but also place them well around the curve in the barrel. Mark this point, tie it and do the same on the other side.
Now the top support layer that works vertically on the rest also has two functions. Provide support through and prevent the barrel from moving back and forth when you are in the water. Then place the drums again on the lower spacers and measure where the barrels end. Put your top layer supports here and fix it.
Step 3: Adding the drums
After attaching the 4 x 4-inch pieces to the corner to reinforce the frame, you can make things a little more stable with the spots of the L-shaped braces in each of the support crosses your floating dock design. This will ensure that everything stays in place and tightens the frame securely.
Now place the hooks in the lower layer of the supports where your guns rest. Two on each side of the barrel. Put the cannons in their holes and fix them! He started on a single eye hook with knots and passed the rope through the barrel, then diagonally, then crossed it again and tied it to the last eye hook. After completing the 4 barrels, you are ready to return.
Step 4: Flip it
Move the monster into the lake. Turn it on the water and tie it to something. You don’t want to float while you go get beer inside.
Now that you have a friend or two… and your beer, this part is a breeze. Plan the 1 “x 4” panels and make sure everything is perfectly straight. Leave a slight distance between each plate. Pleasant and stable! Isn’t it?
