Constructing a dock (floating or stationary) requires a boat enthusiast to locate a high-quality set of dock plans or blueprints to assist in the construction project.
DIY dock systems are offered in multiple construction techniques (stationary or floating), a variety of frame structures (wooden, steel, or aluminum), and selection of deck materials (concrete, wood or aluminum). Locating the ideal set of boat dock designs makes it possible to build a dock on a seafront, calm river or lake.
In the process of sourcing the dock blueprints it will greatly benefit if you’re able to establish whether you are likely to be constructing a freestanding or floating dock. Establish early on how large you will require the dock and its shape (straight, T-shaped or L-shaped). Size and length of the dock and landing area often relates to the depth of water. A dock located in shallow water is likely to require a longer length dock strip since you want to have a sufficient depth of water to safely moor up the vessel.
Skill levels to install a dock system often depend on the type of material used in the build process. A wooden built dock for instance is the ideal self-build project for those with a basic to moderate skill levels in woodworking, while the aluminum docks are often delivered in multiple sections that just need attaching together – and perfect for most.
Floating Docks for Lakes, Rivers, or Sea Fronts
Boat docks for sale are located at-
- Great Northern Docks: Great Northern Docks offer a high-quality selection of dock designs, hardware and accessories to assist the DIY enthusiast in constructing their own wooden or aluminum docks – with either a turn-key or pre-built system.
- Tiger Boat Docks: Tiger Boat Docks design and manufacture a series of stationary or floating docks, lifts, and accessories. Founded in 1995, Tiger Docks offers a varied selection of steel, wood or roof-based self-build plans and blueprints to complement a particular residential set-up. Easy-to-assemble and install, dock kits are equipped with steel hardware, float drums, detailed construction instructions and lumber list, and technical assistance.
Layout and mooring needs
Solid built dock hardware (bolts, hinges, brackets, ladders, etc.) is vital to the long-term durability and performance of self-build pier structure, and is manufactured to hold up to the toughest of marine environments.
Points to determine the design and method of construction consist of such factors as:
- Size and layout of the dock structure
- Exposed or protected site (open water, quiet cove, calm river, etc.)
- Water depth (normal and high water levels)
- Size of the water body
- Water fluctuation and weather conditions throughout a given season
Boat dock blueprints are designed mainly related to the layout and mooring needs. If limited with space, you might wish to look at the straight dock layout which is fully satisfactory for most situations. A T-shaped dock is ideal if you’re likely to be swimming from or fishing off, with sufficient space left for mooring up a river boat. An L-shaped dock is perfect for the more compact sized vessel, or where it is likely to be built into an alcove. A pontoon dock is a further option and gives the chance of creating a walkway on each side of the moored up vessel.
Dock Accessories and Supplies
Brighten up the appearance of the pier, broad-walk, shore dock or T-shaped dock system with a high-quality selection of related accessories – Supplies to enhance the look and appearance consist of a picnic table or bench seat for relaxing at, dock boxes or lockers to place supplies. Dock fenders or bumpers to soften impact, and a decent length dock cleat to tie up a recreational watercraft.
PWC Docks
Dry dock a Sea-Doo, Waverunner or Jet Ski branded personal watercraft (PWC) with one of the easiest solutions for mooring a PWC. Configured for 1, 2 or 3-seater machines, the drive-on / drive-off dock system offers a high-level of protection for these valuable waterborne vehicles, and comes in multiple sizes, shapes, and flotation limitations.
If planning on installing a private pier or similar structure, it might also be worthwhile looking at the existing boat insurance coverage to see whether this might need amending due to a change in mooring location.
Whether it is for constructed a floating or stationary dock system for a 1-seater kayak or a 28-ft deck boat, it is vital to locate a high-quality set of boat dock plans to assist in each step of the build project.