Floating and fixed docks are the two broad categories for boat and jet ski owners who want to keep their vehicles safely stowed at the water’s edge. However, as the names imply, they aren’t the same. Floating and fixed docks vary significantly, so getting your selection right matters.
Fortunately, this guide is here to help. It runs through the benefits and drawbacks of these systems and how to choose the one that will serve you best. By the end, you should be positioned to make a purchase confidently.
What Are Floating Docks?
Floating docks are docks that rise and fall with the water’s level. They are made of modern, buoyant materials (and often air), so they won’t sink, even if holding jet skis or full-sized boats.
Floating decks can be made of various materials, including toughened plastics. Some are inflatable, meaning you must blow them up before deploying them.
What Are Fixed Docks?
Fixed docks (sometimes called “permanent docks”) don’t rise and fall with the water level. Instead, operatives attach them to other structures using piles or other fittings to hold them steady.
Fixed docks aren’t always immovable–some have fittings that let you raise them up or down. However, they are usually rigid and won’t budge, even if water starts lapping over the top of them.
Pros And Cons Of Floating Docks
Pros:
- Easy to install and minimal permitting in most locations
- More affordable, especially inflatable versions
- Can manage changes in the tides
- Resistant to storm and weather damage
- Suitable for families
- Easy to customize, dismantle, and store
Cons:
- Noisier than fixed versions
- Not as suitable for heavier boats
- Can experience damage during low tides
- No boat lifts
Pros and Cons Of Fixed Docks
Pros:
- More security and strength
- Useful for areas with high boat traffic
- Can work alongside boat lifts
- Fixed materials improve longevity
- Unaffected by tidal or water movements
Cons:
- Requires permitting in most areas
- Only suitable in shallow water
- Hard to repair
- Limited customization options from most manufacturers
- Requires pilings in high water environments
How To Choose The Right Dock For You
Water Conditions
Floating docks are a solid option in areas where water levels rise and fall often. Because of this, units are suitable for tidal areas and can adjust automatically without recalibration.
Fixed docks are better in areas where water levels remain consistent, which are rarer. As such, fixed docks are less flexible and better suited to specific niches.
Boat Size And Weight
Floating docks are best for light vessels, like jet skis, but not as well equipped for larger vehicles, since these can push them into the water and cause them to sink.
By contrast, fixed docks are the obvious choice for larger craft. These fit into the surrounding materials with piles and don’t rely on buoyancy to keep everything afloat.
Aesthetic Preferences
Also, consider your aesthetic preferences when making your decision. Fixed docks have a permanent, polished look that you don’t get with inflatable floating alternatives. While the latter can look okay in most situations, it doesn’t have the finesse of the former.
Budget
Consider your budget when searching for dock systems for lakes, rivers, and coastal areas, too. How much you can spend often determines the best solution for you.
Generally, inflatable floating docks are the most affordable, followed by other floating designs. Meanwhile, fixed docks are significantly more costly because of permitting requirements, installation time, and material quality. All these elements combine to push the total price of using these systems higher.
Furthermore, you also want to consider the long-term costs of maintaining these dock systems. Fixed options often break more and require additional repairs, adding to future expenses.
Weather And Other Environmental Factors
The weather can also play a role in deciding which dock type is best for you. Floating docks are the most resistant to harsh conditions because they can bob up and down, depending on what the water and wind do. However, fixed docks are rigid structures, so they rely on their inherent strength to make it through a storm. If made of high-quality materials, they are usually okay, but they can also be buffeted and damaged in extreme circumstances.
In particular, fixed designs are more prone to flooding. Water can come over the top of them, making them unusable and potentially damaging boats on top.
Features
Finally, you should consider the features you want, especially if you are learning how to build a floating dock. These can enhance your quality of life on the water.
As standalone units, floating docks tend to have more customization options. Depending on your needs, you can change things like the length or buoyancy.
Fixed docks are more durable but don’t have as many bells and whistles. Saying that, they can come with boat lifts, which may make them more practical.