What Are the Different Types of Lake Docks Available?

Choosing the right dock is the real game changer when enhancing your waterfront property. A lake dock provides water access, adds value to your waterfront property, and can be customized to suit various needs. Whether looking for a dock for mooring your boat, recreational purposes, or swimming, understanding the options available is the best thing to do. Today, we’ll explore the different types of lake docks available, from permanent docks to floating docks, to help you make the best and the right decision for your property.

Floating Docks

Floating docks are one of the most versatile as well as popular options for lakefront properties. As the name suggests, a floating dock sits on the water, anchored to the shore but falling and rising with the levels of the water. This type of dock is useful in lakes where water levels fluctuate.

Advantages of Floating docks

Easy to remove and install.
Works best in areas with uneven or soft lake beds.
Can be moved or repositioned easily.

Disadvantages of Floating docks

Less stable than fixed docks.
Sometimes, they require maintenance if they shift in rough waters.

Fixed Docks

Fixed docks are also known as permanent docks. This type of dock is a fixed dock and is anchored firmly into the bed of the lake using piling docks or other support structures. Also ideal for those looking for a stable, long-term solution for their waterfront property.

Advantages of Fixed Docks

Extremely stable and strong
Can be customized with dock accessories like boat lifts, benches, lights, etc

Disadvantages of Fixed Docks

Not easily adjusted or removed.
Requires installation from professionals.

Concrete Docks

Concrete docks are strong and also extremely durable. These are generally used for commercial purposes or in areas with high foot traffic. Concrete docks are usually part of the permanent docks category.

Advantages of Concrete docks

Requires minimal maintenance.
Strong and also long-lasting.

Disadvantages of concert docks

Not easily customizable.
Difficult and expensive to install.

With over 25 years of combined experience

Foothills Docks are experts when it comes to building docks.

Wooden Docks

A wooden dock is a classic option for many homeowners. The reason behind this is that wooden docks are made from treated lumber and blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings of your waterfront property.

Advantages of Wooden Docks

Can be customized easily with many dock accessories.
Beautiful with aesthetic appeal that complements nature and surroundings.

Disadvantages of Wooden Docks

Not as durable as other concrete docks or aluminum docks.
Requires regular maintenance from professionals is needed to prevent damage and rot.

Pipe Docks

A pipe dock is built with lightweight materials and supported by thin pipes driven into the bed of the lake. These are excellent options for areas with stable or shallow water conditions.

Advantages of Pipe Docks

Easy to install
Easy to remove
Cost-effective

Disadvantages of Pipe Docks

Not ideal for deep waters or rough waters.
Needs careful installation to ensure stability.

Crib Docks

Crib docks are among the oldest and most durable types of docks. They are constructed by building a frame, generally made of wooden pilings, filled with large rocks to anchor the dock in place.

Dock Re-Surfacing for Enhanced Durability

DOCK RE-SURFACING

Advantages of Crib Docks

Extremely stable
Long-lasting
Best for deeper waters
Perfect for rougher lakes

Disadvantages of crib docks

Can be expensive to build
Requires a lot of materials
Difficult to install and remove

Piling Docks

A piling dock is built by driving long poles, which are known as pilings, into the lake bed. These docks are generally made from concrete docks or wooden pilings and are best known for their strength and durability.

Advantages of Piling Docks

Can support heavy loads, making them best for boat mooring.
Stable in rough waters and deep waters

Disadvantages of Piling Docks

Can be expensive to install and maintain.
Requires professional installation.

Removable Docks

For those who prefer flexibility, removable docks are best for them. These docks are great and are designed to be easily assembled and disassembled, allowing you to store them during the off-season.

Advantages of Removable docks

Light in weight
Easy to install
Can be easily removed during winter or harsh weather conditions.

Disadvantages of Removable Docks

Less stable than stationary or permanent docks.
Not really ideal for areas with strong currents or waves.

Suspension Docks

A suspension dock is a unique design where the dock is anchored to the shore and suspended over the water with the help of cables. This dock is less common but offers an interesting architectural look to your waterfront property.

Advantages of Suspension Docks

Minimal impact on the environment as it doesn’t rest on the bed of the lake.
Modern and also visually appealing design.

Disadvantages of Suspension docks

Expensive and not ideal for heavy use.
Requires expert engineering and skills for installation.

Choosing the Right Dock for Your Property

When you are selecting the right dock for your lakefront property, many factors come into play. These include the condition of the lake bed, how you plan to use the dock, the depth of the water, and whether you want a temporary or permanent solution. It’s best to discuss your needs with your local dock building contractor. Discuss this with them, and they will come up with the best idea. Here are some tips to keep in mind while choosing the right dock for your waterfront property.

For waters that are deep or rough, suspension docks, piling docks, and crib docks can offer the best stability.
If you plan to use the dock for kayaking or swimming, a floating dock or removable dock would be ideal.

For mooring boats, consider a quality boat dock like a piling dock or fixed dock, both of which offer strength and also durability.
For shallow lakes, a pipe dock or removable dock is often the best choice.

It would be best to discuss your needs with a professional dock building company, as they know the best practices and can offer the most suitable advice based on your requirements, the needs of your property, and your budget. So, reach out to them and discuss every little detail of your project.

Conclusion

There are many types of docks available, each made to suit different environments and different needs. From piling docks, to floating boat docks the right dock for your property will depend on factors like personal preference , water depth, usage.

Whether you’re interested in installing a dock for swimming or boating, the wide range of options ensures that there’s a perfect dock for everyone and for every property. Make sure to check and confirm the durability, installation process, and maintenance when deciding on your next lake dock. Always hire an experienced dock construction and installation contractor who is local and knows everything about the lakes of that area.

Expertise & Quality Craftsmanship at Foothills Docks

At Foothills Docks, we’ve been in the business for over 20 years, serving the beautiful upstate lakes. We’ve installed over 1,500 docks and really understand all the needs of Lake Keowee and Lake Hartwell. We’re proud to say that we’re listed as a knowledgeable contractor with Duke Energy.

We’ll also help you through the permitting process with Duke Energy, making sure that our boat dock designs are stamped and approved by their engineering teams. As a family-owned business, we take great pride in our craftsmanship, which is backed by our experience as a South Carolina licensed home builder and custom dock fabricator.

Get in touch with us for expert dock services, including dock construction, fabrication, manufacturing, installation, and custom dock building.