A boat dock can offer numerous benefits for those who are exploring the option of having one on their property.
From the convenient access to water it provides, to enhancing a waterfront property, and the enjoyment that comes with it.
In this guide, you’ll get a better understanding of a dock and how this varies depending on the type of dock, dock materials, and labor required. We’ll also touch on the maintenance and upkeep of the dock.
The benefits of a dock
There are many benefits of docks that are worth knowing about. Here are some of those benefits that might sway you to invest in a dock this year.
Convenience
Convenience is a great benefit that comes from having a dock available. It offers easier access to the water for swimming, boating, fishing, and other water activities.
Property value boost
A dock can be helpful when you’re looking to add some value to your property. Having a dock available can be lucrative when you own a waterfront property.
Socializing and entertainment
To enjoy a waterfront property, docks can help to enhance that enjoyment by providing a platform for socializing, entertainment, and relaxation.
Conservation
Some docks can be helpful beyond just providing enjoyment and convenience for yourself, but they can also contribute to habitat protection.
Security
Security is an important issue when it comes to boats on the property, and having a dock can help add a bit more security by being able to moor boats that you own.
How much does a dock cost?
So what are the costs that come with building a dock? Well, that very much depends on what type of dock you’re looking to build. On average, you’re looking at between $15-$60 per square foot installed. The average dock cost is usually between $3,000 and $30,000.
For floating docks, you’re looking at between $15- $35 and fishing piers between $100- $300 per linear foot.
With big boathouse constructions, these come in at the premium price category of $10,000 to $40,000.
The materials and labor required for dock installation
While the type of dock matters, the materials and labor required for dock installation can also contribute significantly to the cost. With that being said, here’s a breakdown of dock types and the costs that come with each.
Stationary docks
Stationary docks are attached to the waterbody floor, which ultimately increases the costs you’ll pay. It helps to have these types of docks in areas where the waters may be choppy.
Piling
A piling dock typically costs anywhere between $20 $40 per square foot. The large posts are sunk into the ground around 4 to 8 feet to create a permanent foundation required for the dock to sit on top of.
Crib
Crib docks usually cost between $10,000 $50,000. The materials required for this one are usually wooden frames or crates that are filled with large rocks and covered with decking. They usually cause long-term environmental problems, so it’s worth knowing where this type of dock would be prohibited.
Suspension/lift-up
A suspension or lift-up dock costs between $5,000 $25,000 on average. The structure is anchored to the shoreline, and a hinged section is lifted from the water to help with maintenance and storage during the winter.
Double-decker
Double-decker boat docks cost around $15,000-$50,000 to get installed. This structure provides cover to the watercraft on the first level, and then doubles up as an expansive space for sunbathing and entertaining.
Boathouse/covered
Boathouses are at the top end of the pricing, costing around $10,000 to $45,000 depending on the design and features picked out. With the roof-covered structure, it shelters water crafts and other equipment you might have on site.
Removable docks
Removable docks are helpful when you want something that’s floating or resting on the dock, and that’s usually temporarily secured.
Floating
Floating docks will cost around $15-$35 per square foot to install. This is a platform constructed over airtight barrels that rise and fall with changing water levels. It uses marine-grade, pressure-treated wood for freshwater docks.
Aluminum pipe dock
An aluminum pipe dock costs around $1,000 to $7,000, depending on its size. It’s a lightweight dock that stands on legs but isn’t permanently anchored to the ground. This helps for removing the dock before winter, and it’s an ideal type of dock where the lake bottom is firm.
Modular
Modular docks cost around $30 to $50 per square foot. Modular docking is made up of lightweight floating cubes that look and connect like building blocks. Easy to reconfigure, too, when it comes to docking setups that are perhaps a bit more unusual than most.
Wheel-in/roll-in
Wheel-in docks will set you back around $1,000 to $8,000 and require a gently sloping shoreline for installation and removal.e
So, how much does it cost to have a dock installed by laborers? Typically, you’d expect to pay on average around $40 to $100 an hour. The average project could be anywhere from 40 to 100 hours, which works out at around $5,000 for a basic dock installation. However, that could vary drastically depending on the project size.
What’s the upkeep and maintenance on docks?
Is there much upkeep and maintenance when it comes to docks? While there is some upkeep and maintenance required, staying on top of it is easy enough to do.
Regular cleaning
Cleaning your dock at least once a year is important, and most will withstand a pressure washer on them or a stiff brush for more delicate surfaces. For wood, try to avoid harsh chemicals, as this can be damaging.
Inspections
It’s worthwhile inspecting your dock at the beginning and end of each season to stay attentive to any problems that your dock might incur. Look for loose boards, rotting wood, rust, or corrosion.
Protection of materials
Protecting the materials is a big part of the upkeep. For wooden docks, apply sealants and sand wooden surfaces to remove splinters. Use marine-grade materials for dock construction and to replace any rusted spots. Make sure to treat these spots as soon as they appear.
Thinking about getting a dock? Well, this should be enough to convince you that having a dock of any size can be a great benefit to your property this year and beyond.