If you’ve ever spent time near a lake, river, or bay, you know how much a good dock adds to the experience. No matter if it’s lounging with your feet in the water, or hosting friends for sunset drinks, the right dock can become the heart of your waterfront lifestyle.But when it comes to building boat docks, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the best dock decking material. And frankly, it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. Your choice depends on factors like your climate, budget, how you plan to use the dock, and how much upkeep you’re willing to take on. So, let’s walk through the types of wood for dock building to help you find the right fit for your boat dock project.
Why Wood Still Holds Strong in Dock Building
Even with the rise of composite deck materials, plastic decking materials, and other options, traditional wooden docks are far from outdated. In fact, a well-built wooden boat dock still holds a kind of timeless charm. The natural warmth under bare feet, the sound of footsteps on wood decking, and that classic lakeside aesthetic—it’s hard to beat.
But the real question is: what type of wood gives you the look you want without constant headaches?
Pressure Treated Pine: The Most Common Starting Point
Pressure treated pine (also known as treated wood or treated pine) is one of the most affordable types of dock materials on the market. It’s made by infusing pressure treated lumber with chemical preservatives that help it resist insect attacks, rot, and mold and mildew. That makes it a go-to for many boat dock builders, especially in freshwater environments.
Pros:
- Widely available and cheapest compared to other options
- Can last up to 15-20 years with proper upkeep
- Easy to work with and cut into short length boards for custom builds
Cons:
- Needs to be sealed annually with a water sealer to combat constant exposure to moisture
- Can splinter over time, which isn’t ideal for walking barefoot
- Not the most sustainable wood choice due to chemical treatment
While it’s not exactly upkeep free, pressure treated wood does offer a solid value, especially if you’re keeping a close eye on the initial cost of your boat dock project.
Cedar Wood: A Naturally Beautiful Option
If you’re looking for something more visually striking—and more naturally resistant to decay—cedar wood deserves a place on your shortlist. Cedar is known for its natural rot resistance, soft texture, and rich reddish hues that age to a beautiful silver if left untreated.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to handle with the right tools
- Naturally resistant to insects and rot
- Doesn’t require chemical treatment, so it’s often sustainably harvested
Cons:
- Costs more than treated pine
- Still requires regular upkeep to prevent weathering
- Softer wood means it may wear down faster in constant moisture
Cedar gives you that classic wood dock feel, but keep in mind that it may not be the most durable wood if you’re facing heavy foot traffic or harsh weather.
Douglas Fir: An Understated Performer
Not talked about as much as cedar or pine, Douglas fir is a solid performer in the world of wood dock construction. This hardwood species is often used in dock pilings and framing due to its strength and resistance to warping.
Pros:
- Strong and stable, with a high strength-to-weight ratio
- Moderately priced
- Responds well to waterproofing sealer
Cons:
- Not as naturally rot resistant as cedar or hardwoods
- Requires very little upkeep if sealed properly, but still needs to be maintained.
For many, Douglas fir is a nice compromise between cost and performance—especially when treated and sealed properly.
Exotic Hardwood Boat Dock Options
For those looking to build a durable boat dock that’ll outlast almost anything Mother Nature throws at it, exotic hardwood is often considered the best material available.
Some popular exotic wood choices include:
- Ipe (pronounced ee-pay)
- Cumaru
- Garapa
These exotic hardwood boat materials are not only beautiful but also incredibly dense and naturally resistant to rot, decay, and even insect attacks.
Pros:
- Among the most durable wood options available
- Handles constant exposure to water with ease
- Low likelihood of decking complaints like warping, splitting, or cupping
Cons:
- High initial cost
- Requires special tools to cut and drill
- Sustainability concerns unless sustainably harvested
If you’re creating a dream dock that’s as much a statement piece as it is a functional structure, exotic hardwood may be the way to go. But be prepared for a steeper price tag and longer lead times.
Composite & Plastic Decking Materials: The Low-Upkeep Route
Sometimes, the best wood… isn’t wood at all. With advances in technology, composite decks and plastic decking materials have grown popular for boat docks, especially for people who want very little upkeep.
Composite deck materials are usually made from a blend of recycled materials like sawdust and plastics. They’re engineered to resist fading, splintering, and staining—some even come with warranties.
Pros:
- Truly low-upkeep (no sanding, sealing, or staining)
- Resistant to mold and mildew, warping, and UV damage
- Eco-friendly options made with recycled materials
Cons:
- Hot under bare feet in direct sunlight
- The initial cost can be higher than wood decking
- Some products have faced class action lawsuits due to long-term issues
Most plastic decking materials don’t have the same natural look or feel as wood, but if your priority is ease of care and damage-resistance, they’re worth serious consideration.
Floating Docks: What to Consider for Your Decking Material
If you’re building floating docks, the type of decking you choose matters even more. Floating structures are more vulnerable to movement, water level changes, and constant moisture. Here, durable wood like ipe or sealed pressure treated lumber can work well. Some also opt for composite deck panels that allow water drainage.
Whatever you choose, make sure your dock decking material is rated for floating docks—and always install a proper waterproofing sealer if you’re using wood.
Your local dock fabrication contractors know about the lakes in the area and which type of dock is best for which lakefront property.
What to Avoid: The Wrong Wood Types for Docks
Not all wood types are cut out for the unique demands of waterfront life. Some will experience faster rot under constant exposure to moisture. Others may splinter or warp, making them unsafe or unsightly.
Avoid softwoods that aren’t treated, and stay away from lumber that isn’t rated for ground or marine contact. Using the wrong material could mean big-ticket problems—or even starting over—in just a few years.
Final Thoughts: Picking the Best Wood for Your Boat Dock
The truth is, there’s no single “best” choice for everyone. The best wood for your wood dock depends on your budget, climate, and personal preferences. Some want the warm, rustic look of a classic wood dock. Others want the mental peace that comes with options requiring zero upkeep. And for some, nothing beats the strength and beauty of exotic hardwood.
When in doubt, consult with a professional who knows the ins and outs of boat decks and dock materials in your region. With the right choice, your wooden boat dock can become a centerpiece—something that holds up to sun, water, family fun, and time.
So go ahead. Plan your dream dock, gather your right tools, and get to work. Because life’s just better on the water.
Trusted Dock Building & Installation Experts in Seneca, SC
If you are in Seneca, South Carolina, and own a waterfront property on Upstate Lakes, you probably have a dock. If you are looking for an expert dock builder or contractor in the area, call us. We are Foothills Docks, and we specialize in dock construction, dock manufacturing, dock installation, dock fabrication, and much more.
Get in touch with us today to know more about our services. Call us now to book your consultation.
