Regardless of whether your boat dock will be used for mooring boats or as a recreational facility, some key principles should be considered during construction. Lake Wylie Dock Construction is strong and sturdy.

It should also be well-sheltered from winds and water currents. This can be achieved by replacing old stagnant water in rivers and seaports or by building walls and lee breakwaters in inland ports.

The foundation of a dock is important for stability and strength. A good foundation will be strong enough to support heavy loads, resist corrosion, and stand up well against floods. The best foundation material is concrete, which has excellent durability, and is highly resistant to humidity, fire and termites. However, many people prefer a more natural look and opt for wood pilings. These are often treated before installation, which makes them more water-resistant. Wood can also withstand the weather well, but it requires regular maintenance to prevent rot and damage.

A dock can be used for a wide range of purposes, from providing a place to moor boats to offering a relaxing and beautiful view. Whatever purpose you have in mind, it’s important to plan the construction of the dock before constructing it. This will ensure that the design will serve its intended function well and that it will comply with any local ordinances or requirements.

The type, size and layout of a dock foundation will depend on the soil’s capacity and the force and weight the structure will be supporting. It’s recommended to hire a professional to perform a thorough soil assessment before beginning construction. This will ensure that the foundation is properly sized and reinforced to meet the needs of the structure and that it is located in an area that’s safe for the building materials and workers.

Another important consideration when preparing the foundation for a dock is to be sure that it’s built at least a few inches above the maximum waterline. This will ensure that the foundation remains dry and protect any equipment or property stored underneath. To determine the highest point of the waterline, you can check the water’s edge on a map or by looking at nearby natural rock outcroppings.

Lastly, it’s a good idea to install french drains around the perimeter of the foundation for additional protection from moisture. These are perforated PVC pipes that are buried in the ground, and they help to collect and divert excess rainwater away from the foundation. This will also protect the structure from flooding and erosion and minimize the risk of contamination of the soil and surrounding environment.

The material a dock is built from should be strong enough to hold vessels when moored and stable in windy or wavy conditions. Depending on the purpose of the dock, it may also need to be waterproof or at least water-resistant. Wood, concrete and steel are all good choices for the frame and outer posts of a dock, with cedar being the preferred choice because of its rot-resistant properties.

When building the frame of a dock, it’s important to follow all applicable construction codes and guidelines. Taking shortcuts or cutting corners at this stage of the construction process can cost you in the long run. Taking the time to do things right will ensure that your dock is safe and durable for years to come.

The design of a dock should take into account the amount of traffic it will need to handle. Larger docks can have a central entrance channel to facilitate traffic movement. For smaller docks, the entrance channel can be designed to resemble a natural waterway or be enclosed within a structure. Some docks are naturally sheltered from winds and waves, but most have to be provided with man-made sheltering structures such as walls or lee breakwaters.

Another consideration is how high the dock will be. It’s important to keep in mind that the height of the water can change and fluctuate over the course of a year. The best practice is to build the dock at the maximum water level of the lake or river in which it will be located. This will allow the dock to be used for the most possible amount of time, especially during dry seasons.

For this reason, many commercial docks are constructed using steel pilings rather than wood. While steel is the sturdiest option, it can be difficult to work with as it’s very heavy. When constructing a steel dock, the use of blind bolt anchors is very important. These anchors are fastened to aluminum brackets that are then welded to the steel pile.

While some people build their own docks, it’s best to leave the construction of a larger commercial or community-owned dock to professionals. The skills and experience of a professional marine contractor can ensure that the finished product is strong, durable, and compliant with all local rules and regulations. In addition, they can help you with any unforeseen issues that might arise during the construction process.

Once the basic frame is constructed and the footers and outer posts are in place, decking materials can be installed. Like any other decking project, this is done in a similar fashion, with the material being cut to fit and then secured to the frame using screws or nails. Once the decking is in place, it’s important to add any additional shoreline support posts to avoid structural collapse.

The type of material used for dock planking is also a big decision, as it determines how long your new dock will last and what kind of use you can get out of it. Wood, for example, is a classic option that looks great and works well in most settings. However, it carries the risk of mildew and mold growth as it is a natural material that is directly exposed to water. This is why many homeowners opt for composite or plastic decking, as these materials are much more resistant to moisture.

Another popular option for dock planking is stainless steel, as it is strong enough to withstand the impact of heavy boat traffic and day-to-day wear and tear. It’s also extremely durable and requires little maintenance as it is naturally protected against corrosion. It is also incredibly stable due to its density, which means that it doesn’t shift or move easily even in windy and wavy conditions. Steel is the preferred material for commercial docks and those built by the marine industry, as it’s very difficult to damage or destroy. When it comes to installing this material, blind bolts play a critical role.

One final note about dock construction: unlike building a shed or renovating your bathroom, working on structures over water bodies is highly regulated by local authorities and requires a permit. Obtaining this permit ensures that you’re following all of the rules and regulations in order to keep your dock safe, secure and up to code.

, our professional crews receive extensive training from our master craftsman trainers in both classroom and hands-on situations. Combined with our apprenticeship programs, this specialized training translates into unmatched productivity for our clients.

If a dock is not properly anchored, it can become unsteady and possibly fall off the water’s surface. It can also be dangerous for anyone who uses it and could potentially cause damage to boats and the shoreline. offers a variety of anchoring options to ensure your dock is secure in any body of water. The type of anchoring method needed will depend on the conditions where your dock is located. For example, if you’re building on the ocean, it will have to contend with larger waves and more drastic water fluctuations than a lake. Areas prone to hurricanes may also require additional hurricane holes and/or a system with multiple cable applications.

The four most common dock anchoring methods include sleeve anchoring, pile anchoring, pole and sleeve anchoring, and cable anchoring. Pile anchors are ideal for docks that must be strong and stable to handle heavy loads. They can be used on wood, concrete or steel pilings.

A sleeve anchor is best for windy areas that can experience high waves. These anchors have durable vertical galvanized steel sleeves attached to the dock, with long, galvanized poles running through them and into the lake bed. A winch or cable system is typically connected to the bottom of each pole to help move and adjust to changing weather conditions.

Stiff arm anchors are good for near-shore docks that must transport heavy loads or hold a lot of people. These systems use a winch or cable with reinforced arms to connect the dock and the shoreline.

For floating docks, a series of crisscrossed chain anchors are recommended. The chains are connected with a quick chain link to a rebar anchor that is set in the lake floor. These anchors can be made from a wide variety of materials, including concrete, steel, or fiberglass.

In addition to anchors, you will need galvanized chain and eye bolts to attach the chains to the anchors. These fasteners are designed to help withstand the pressure from waves, and can be secured with a chain swivel or a cleat.