August 29, 2024

Written by ShoreMaster Marketing

Options for Your Floating Dock Anchor: RhinoDock Anchorage Choices

ShoreMaster’s commitment to advancing dock design and engineering has provided waterfront owners with innovative solutions that allow them to do more of what they love on the water. This journey has culminated with the RhinoDock — a floating dock system that boasts industry-leading strength, superior stability, and unparalleled design versatility.

However, even the most advanced floating dock system is only as good as its anchoring. Below, we delve into the different RhinoDock anchoring options to help you build a waterfront haven that looks great and works even better. 

Introduction to Floating Dock Anchors 

Anchors are critical to maintaining the stability and security of floating docks, ensuring owners have a safe space to do what they love while protecting their boats, gear, and other waterfront investments. A well-designed anchoring system safeguards your dock from the following: 

• Drifting: Currents and strong winds can push an insufficiently anchored floating dock away from the shore. A robust anchoring system ensures the dock remains securely in place, even during adverse weather and water conditions. 
• Collision: Loose docks pose a hazard to boats and other watercraft. According to a study by the Cardiff University Seafarers International Research Centre (SIRC), “collision, close quarters, and contact” are the most common types of maritime accidents (SIRC, 2018). Proper anchoring keeps docks stationary, minimizing the risk of accidental collisions. 
• Wave damage: Waves can batter a poorly anchored dock, causing damage and unnecessary strain to its structure and components. Proper anchorage minimizes the impact of rough water on the dock, keeping it stable and its occupants safe. 

If you’re having stability issues with your floating dock setup, contact your local ShoreMaster dealer today. 

Types of Anchors for RhinoDocks  

Whether you're looking for optimal stability in deep waters or a flexible solution for fluctuating water levels, ShoreMaster’s Rhino Marine Systems has fully customizable anchorage choices to meet your shoreline’s unique requirements. Here are some popular options:

• Pipe and collar anchoring: This is the most commonly used anchoring option for RhinoDock floating docks. In this system, a pipe bracket is securely bolted onto the dock. A pipe is then slid through the bracket down to the lake bed. This anchoring solution is ideal for relatively shallow waters (typically less than 15 feet deep) where water levels remain fairly consistent.
• Stiff arm anchoring: Ideal for locations with significant water level variations, stiff arm anchoring utilizes a fixed arm extending from the shore towards the dock. The arm (typically constructed from heavy-duty aluminum or steel) connects to the dock with a hinge or pivot point on both ends. When water levels rise or fall, the dock can move vertically along the stiff arms while maintaining its position relative to the shore. 
• Winch and cable anchoring: This anchoring system is well-suited for deep water applications. It involves installing winches on each dock corner and anchoring cables to strategically placed weights or pilings on the lakebed. The winches allow for adjusting cable tension, fine-tuning the dock's position, and ensuring stability.  

Our extensive research and development have allowed us to develop anchoring solutions that make RhinoDock floating dock systems just as stable as fixed docks. Contact your local ShoreMaster dealer today for more information on the optimal anchoring solution for your dock system. 

Choosing the Right Anchor for Your Dock  

There are several factors to consider when choosing the ideal anchoring system for your dock. These include the following:

• Shoreline composition: The type of shoreline (rocky, sandy, muddy, etc.) will influence the optimal anchoring solutions. For example, pipe and collar anchoring systems work best in soft lake beds. Conversely, winch and cable anchoring might be better for rocky shorelines.  
• Typical water conditions: Evaluate your typical waterfront conditions, considering factors like current strength, wave height, and water level fluctuations. We typically recommend piling anchors for areas with strong currents or high wave action and deadweight anchors for calmer waters. 
• Dock size and weight: Larger docks and those supporting heavier vessels require more robust anchoring solutions. Ensure the anchor you choose can handle the dock load to provide optimal stability. 

Some areas have regulations governing dock anchoring. Michigan law, for instance, requires permits for activities such as constructing or placing structures on bottomlands (State of Michigan, n.d.). Be sure to check with local authorities to avoid potential issues.    

Installation and Maintenance of Dock Anchors  

We strongly recommend professional installation for all RhinoDock anchoring systems. Qualified installers possess the specialized tools, necessary skills, and experience to address site-specific challenges, ensuring that the anchoring system is tailored to your location’s unique conditions. This attention to detail not only enhances the dock’s safety and durability but also maximizes its longevity and effectiveness. 

With that said, here are some maintenance tips:

• Regular inspections: Regularly inspect your anchoring system for signs of wear and tear, such as corrosion or loose connections. For pipe and collar anchors, ensure the pipe remains securely embedded in the lake bed. For winch and cable systems, maintain proper cable tension according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.  
• Cleaning: Clean the anchor, brackets, and connectors to remove debris, algae, and other marine growth to ensure their functionalities aren't compromised.  
• Seasonal maintenance: Perform seasonal maintenance, especially before and after extreme weather conditions. For example, if you’re leaving your dock on the water in an area with harsh winters, consider installing bubblers to prevent ice from forming around the anchors and dock structure. This helps reduce the pressure and potential damage caused by expanding ice.

For any concerns about boat dock installation and maintenance, contact your local ShoreMaster dealer. 

Why Choose ShoreMaster for Your Floating Dock Anchor  

Since 1972, ShoreMaster has provided waterfront owners with reliable docking solutions that allow them to maximize their time on the water. Here’s what you get when you choose ShoreMaster:

• Superior quality: All RhinoDock System components withstand the harshest conditions. The galvanized steel parts and pilings are chemically treated, not coated, for unmatched durability against corrosion and protection against the elements.
• Versatility: With a wide range of brackets, connectors, and other hardware kits, RhinoDock Systems can meet the needs of various shoreline conditions and dock configurations. Whether you need a simple deadweight anchor or a robust piling system, we have the solution to ensure your floating dock is as safe, stable, and secure.
• Comprehensive solutions: In addition to anchoring options, we offer a diverse range of docking solutions, including decking, roofing, accessories, boat lifts, and virtually anything else you need to enhance your lifestyle. This gives you a single point of contact for all your waterfront needs. 

If you’ve been wondering how floating docks work for your specific waterfront needs, visit your local ShoreMaster dealer for a hands-on experience with these innovative docking solutions. 

References: 

• Seafarers International Research Centre (SIRC) (November 2018). The causes of maritime accidents in the period 2002-2016. Retrieved from: SIRC-The-causes-of-maritime-accidents-in-the-period-2002-2016-2018_12.pdf (safety4sea.com)
• State of Michigan (n.d.). Docks, Boat Hoists, and Swim Rafts. Retrieved from: Docks-Boat-Hoists-Swim-Raft-Handout.pdf (michigan.gov)