How Does Custom Dock Fabrication Differ From Standard Manufacturing?
The Advantages of the Custom Boat Dock Fabrication
While premade docks are quick and cheap, custom metal fabrication offers a whole world of benefits for the discerning waterfront owner. First and foremost, custom docks can be designed to fit your exact needs and wants.
That’s the size and type of boat, how you’ll use the dock for entertaining or fishing, and even the look you want to match your waterfront property. This allows you to have your waterfront look how you want it to and adds personalized functionality to your dock.
Custom Fabrication vs. Pre-made Docks
Pre-made docks come in standard sizes and configurations. While that might work with a typical shoreline and a standard boat size, custom metal fabrication offers tailored solutions for unique waterfront features and special boat requirements.
However, a pre-made dock might not be the best if your waterfront has unique features or your boat has special requirements. Custom fabrication lets you overcome those limitations and create a dock that fits your property and boating needs.
How Custom Fabrication Adapts to Unique Shorelines
Not all shorelines are created equal. Custom fabrication shines when adapting to uneven terrain, fluctuating water levels, or specific obstacles on your waterfront property. A custom-designed dock can be built using a detailed fabrication process that includes bending, punching, cutting, welding, and other techniques.
For example, custom docks can have ramps or elevators to address changing water levels or built-on pilings to navigate uneven lake beds or rocky areas.
With over 25 years of combined experience
Foothills Docks are experts when it comes to building docks.
The Material Edge: Choosing the Right Raw Materials for Your Custom Dock
Custom dock fabrication gives you the metal materials and other material options that premade docks don’t. So you can choose what’s right for you. Aluminum is popular because it’s light, won’t rust, and needs little maintenance.
Treated wood looks classic but requires regular upkeep to prevent rot and warping. Composite lumber gives you the wood look with the low maintenance of plastic for a longer life than wood. Concrete is the strongest and most durable for rough water but the most expensive upfront.
Functionality with Custom Metal Fabrication Dock Design
A custom dock is more than just a platform. Custom fabrication lets you add features that make it more functional and tailored to your needs. Imagine built-in benches and seating areas to lounge and entertain. Hidden storage compartments become a haven for life jackets, fishing gear, or whatever you want to keep close by.
Swim platforms can be integrated seamlessly for easy access to the water for swimming or diving. For fishermen, custom-designed rod holders can keep their gear organized and at their fingertips. These are just a few examples of how custom design can turn a simple platform into an extension of your waterfront living space, creating the final product that perfectly suits your lifestyle. Here are some easy ways that you can make your boat dock more functional.
The Benefits of Standard Boat Docks
While custom fabrication has its advantages, there are times when a standard boat dock might be the way to go. Budget is a big consideration – premade docks are less expensive than custom-built ones due to large-scale production, which involves skilled labor operating machinery within factory buildings.
A standard dock might be enough for a small to medium-sized boat if your needs are basic and your shoreline is typical. A pre-made might be fine if you only plan to use the dock briefly. However, weigh the drawbacks of limited size, configuration, and material options before going with a standard dock. You might find the upfront savings aren’t worth a dock that doesn’t meet your needs or provide the functionality and longevity you want.
DOCK RE-SURFACING
Custom Fabrication vs. Standard Dock Pricing
The biggest difference between custom and standard docks is cost. Standard docks are cheaper upfront due to mass production, which makes them more cost-efficient. That’s a big deal if you’re on a budget.
But consider the long-term value. Custom docks are more expensive upfront but can be built with better materials and to your specifications, which means longer life and lower maintenance down the road. Plus, you can customize the size and features of your dock to increase your property value.
Comparing Pre-Made Dock Set & Custom Dock Manufacturing
The setup process also differs between pre-made and custom docks. Pre-made docks come with standardized instructions for DIY setup, or a contractor familiar with the product can set them up more quickly. But that may not be the case for everyone, especially if you have a complex shoreline or specific needs. Custom metal fabrication is a more personalized approach.
The builder will work with you to design the dock, get permits if needed, and handle the entire construction process. That may take longer up front, but it ensures a dock that fits your property perfectly and eliminates the headaches of DIY setup. Pre-made docks are created through a manufacturing process that includes raw material acquisition, processing, assembly, and finishing. This comprehensive industrial approach allows for quicker setup times.
Durability & Maintenance of Custom vs. Standard
The battle between durability and maintenance costs is another consideration. Standard docks made with less robust materials to get to a lower price point may require more repairs and replacements due to wear and tear. Custom docks with better materials for your environment, including metal structures, can be more durable, like sheet metal fabrication. That, plus design for your unique needs (e.g., fluctuating water levels), can mean lower maintenance costs. Custom docks may require some upkeep, but their overall lifespan and resilience will outweigh the maintenance of standard docks over time.
Call For Dock Fabrication Services At Foothills Docks
Suppose you wish to get custom fabrication for your boat dock project. You can count on us at Foothills Docks. With years of combined experience with docks, our expert team is well-versed in bringing your dock dreams to reality. Moreover, we also offer dock cleaning, repair, and resurfacing services so your boat dock can shine through all seasons. Contact us today to get more information regarding our services and offerings for your boat dock.