Posted on February 7, 2019
Versatile Dock Selections for Waterfront Properties
Dock Selection for All Types of Waterfront Property
Written by ShoreMaster Marketing
When you picture your future dock, what do you see?
There are copious dock options available today, and it can be hard to decide between them! From the small lakes of the Midwest to the deep waters of the South, everyone has unique needs and varying waterfront conditions. At ShoreMaster, we put our docks into three major categories: sectional standing, wheel-in, and floating docks. Functionality and circumstances will likely play a large role in your dock choice.
Of course, we all have different dock plans when it comes to activities and relaxation as well. Some want to pack their dock full of all of the accessories, like swimming ladders and paddleboard racks, while others are just happy with a little patio furniture for catching the sunset. Ultimately, the right type of dock for your waterfront depends on several major factors — including your waterfront type and accessory preferences.
Here are the most important questions to ask yourself when making dock plans:
Where will your dock be located? Are you looking for a dock at your primary or secondary residence? That may change the level of maintenance you will be able to take on. And, will your dock be located on a lake or in coastal waters? What is your shoreline like? These can all impact the types of dock that will work best. A steep or rocky shoreline, for instance, may require a different installation method than a simple, gradual sloped shoreline. And, if that’s the case, you’d be better off with a sectional or floating dock than a wheel-in system.
What is the water like at your property? If there are significant water fluctuations, a floating dock that adapts to changing water levels would be more beneficial for your property than a sectional standing dock. The average water depth can also change the type of dock that’s right for you. At ShoreMaster, we typically categorize the average water depth into less than three feet, between three and nine feet, and then greater than nine feet. You also have to take the bottom of your water into consideration — Is it muddy, sandy, rocky, or weedy?
Who will be handling the installation and removals? If you plan to handle everything and remove your dock seasonally, our wheel-in dock might be the best choice. But, if you want to leave the installation and removal of your dock to the professionals, this isn’t as pertinent. And of course, some choose to leave their docks in year-round. Fortunately, all of ShoreMaster’s docks are hassle free and feature low-maintenance welded construction and InfinityTrack systems.
How will you use your dock the most? Will it be utilized simply for boat access? Or do you want to enjoy it for other recreational purposes, such as fishing, paddle boarding, kayaking, and swimming? This will guide the size and configuration of your dock.
What are your top two dock priorities?
- Minimal maintenance
- Design and configuration options
- Available accessories
- Ease of seasonal installation and removal
- Stability in rough waters
- Ability to add on and update
Will you need a boat lift? They provide protection for your boat and work in a wide range of waterfront environments. Boat lifts keep your boat out of the water when you aren’t using it — resulting in increased safety and support and minimizing the negative effects of weather and the elements.
Whether you’re looking for lake dock ideas or you already have your coastal dock plans all set, ShoreMaster can help! We have docks and boat lifts for all waterfront environments. Take our dock selection quiz today and see what we recommend for your property and water type.
