Docks are a great addition to any waterfront property, providing a place to swim, fish, launch boats, and relax. If you’re handy with tools and have a bit of time on your hands, building your own dock can be a rewarding project that will save you money and give you a sense of accomplishment.
If you’re looking to buy a DIY dock from a provider such as Tommy Docks, this guide will help substantially.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to building your own dock:
Table of Contents
Step 1: Choose a design and materials
Before you start building, you’ll need to decide on a design for your dock and gather the necessary materials. There are many different design options to choose from, ranging from simple floating docks to more complex structures with multiple levels and features. Some of the materials you’ll need to consider include:
- Lumber: You’ll need lumber to build the frame and deck of your dock. Pressure-treated lumber is a good choice for outdoor projects because it is resistant to rot and insects.
- Hardware: You’ll need various hardware items, such as screws, bolts, and brackets, to hold your dock together. Make sure to use marine-grade hardware to resist corrosion.
- Floats: If you’re building a floating dock, you’ll need floats to provide buoyancy. There are many different types of floats available, including plastic barrels, foam blocks, and purpose-built floats.
- Other materials: Depending on your design, you may need other materials such as piers, pilings and piling caps, handrails, and decking..
Step 2: Obtain any necessary permits
Before you start building your dock, you’ll need to check with your local building department to see if you need any permits. In some areas, you may also need to get approval from the local water authority or environmental agency.
Step 3: Prepare the site
Once you have your materials and permits, you’ll need to prepare the site for your dock. This may include clearing any debris, marking out the footprint of your dock, and making sure you have access to power and water if needed.
Step 4: Build the frame
Next, you’ll need to build the frame of your dock. This will typically involve assembling the base frame using lumber and hardware, and then attaching the floats to the base. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your floats to ensure proper placement and secure attachment.
Step 5: Install the decking
With the frame in place, you can now install the decking. This will typically involve attaching deck boards to the frame using screws or nails. There are many different types of decking materials to choose from, including wood, composite, and plastic.
Step 6: Add any additional features
Depending on your design, you may want to add additional features to your dock such as handrails, seating, storage, or electrical outlets. You can also add finishing touches such as staining or painting the wood to protect it from the elements.
Step 7: Launch and enjoy!
With your dock complete, you can now launch it and enjoy all of the activities it has to offer. Make sure to follow proper safety guidelines and take care of your dock to ensure it lasts for years to come.
If you’re looking for a more in-depth guide on building your own dock, check out this guide to build your own dock by Tommy Docks.
Overall, building your own dock can be a challenging but rewarding project. By following these steps and taking your time, you can create a dock that will provide years of enjoyment and add value to your waterfront property.
