How Much Does It Cost To Build A Floating Dock?
There’s nothing quite like dock life at the cottage. From kicking back and soaking up some rays to taking a dive into cool, Canadian waters, a dock is a must-have for cottage owners.
If you’re in the market for a dock, there are different routes you can take. Many cottage owners these days are opting for floating docks instead of fixed docks, because of the many benefits—they remain level with the water, ease of installation, and less upkeep required, among others.
But how much does it cost to build a floating dock?
You need to consider all the components that go into building an exceptional floating dock when scoping your floating dock project.
Components of Floating Docks
Floating dock systems should always offer the best design for your waterfront, tailored to suit your needs.
While all docks can be customized, there are a number of components that all cottage owners should know about when considering costs.
Pontoons
Floating docks obviously require some form of structure underneath to keep them afloat. There are different ways to go about this. NyDock floating docks are built with pontoons made from tough, durable, HDPE pipe used in mining, municipal and industrial applications. This material is incredibly strong; so much so that the pontoons are impressively resistant to freezing and other damage.
Fusion Welded Caps
The ends of each pontoon are capped with a unique fusion welding process that creates a joint that is stronger than the pontoon itself. The materials and the time required for this process need to be accounted for in the overall cost.
Connection Brackets
HDPE deck connection brackets are extruder-welded along the pontoon surface to maximize the dock strength and ensure that the brackets do not penetrate the wall of the pontoon to keep the factory seal intact.
Accessories
Our floating docks come complete with boat cleats, anchoring cleats and hinges. For those looking for an elevated experience, dock ladders, dock bumpers, and other accessories should also be considered:
- Flush Mount Solar Lighting
- Dock Anchor Weights ( Required)
- Dock Cleats (Black or White / Flip Up)
- Dock Bumper (P Profile)
- 4 Step Stainless Steel Ladders
Layout Considerations of Floating Docks
Your unique shoreline and waterfront play an important role in determining what type of dock you need, as well as how the dock should be installed.
Consider answers for the following:
- What is the terrain of your shoreline?
- How deep is the water in your immediate waterfront?
- How far will your dock need to extend for swimming and diving?
- Is your shoreline calm or wavy?
- Will you be in an exposed area over winter?
Your needs for parking various water toys, boats, and other aquatic sports equipment also need to be considered when selecting your dock layout.
Consider answers for the following:
- How many boats will be parked on your dock?
- Will you have visitors dock at your dock?
- Will you be parking at Sea-Doos, canoes, or other watercraft?
- Will you need patio space for entertaining and gatherings?
By considering each of the above factors, your dock company will be able to suggest the best layout for your personal project and budget.
Some standard options that NyDock offers for dock layouts include:
From width to hinges to ramp length, docks are customizable, and therefore, range in cost.
The Cost of Floating Dock Materials
Like patio decks, the docks themselves can be constructed of various materials. However, there are advantages and disadvantages to choosing wood vs. composite materials – especially when it comes to cost.
Generally, the longer a material lasts, the more it costs. When it comes to long-lasting materials, there are three commonly available options: composite, cedar, and pressure-treated (PT). NyDock offers all three options. The most expensive is the weardeck HDPE decking which comes with a 25-year warranty and boasts it will last much longer. A more traditional choice is upgrading to cedar, though its reputation for longevity has been challenged in recent years and it is still more expensive than Pressure Treated. Pressure-treated wood is the most common and cost-effective option – it’s the least expensive of the three and its treatment helps it last longer than untreated wood.
The Benefits of Floating Docks
There are four distinct advantages to building a floating dock:
Freeze In Ice Technology
NyDock docks are built with Freeze In Ice Technology. That means the pontoons and docks won't be harmed by being frozen in the ice. However, that doesn't mean there isn't risk when leaving your dock in the water over winter. It's important to know the typical ice movement patterns of your shoreline during spring break-up. If large pieces of ice move into your shoreline, it's always best to disconnect the dock and take it to a protected area or cove for safety. The dock is easy to tow by boat and safeguarding it can prevent damage caused by moving ice, which can destroy almost anything.
Lifetime Warranty
NyDock Pontoons come with a lifetime warranty, made from tough, durable, HDPE plastic. Each pontoon is capped with a unique fusion welding process. Cottagers appreciate the benefit of long-term savings (i.e. the last dock you will ever need) despite a potentially higher up-front cost.
Environmental Considerations
Environmentally friendly floating docks are designed without harmful expanded polystyrene or styrofoam fillers that can pollute shorelines and harm animals.
Built-To-Last Durability
Pontoons never rust, leak, crack, dent, or require painting. They are built to exceed the Ontario building code for commercial load requirements.
Have Questions About Pricing Floating Docks?
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