Aluminum Docks Vs. Wood Docks: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve ever considered installing a dock in your home, then you may have asked yourself this question: do you prefer aluminum docks or wooden docks?
The thing is, you can hardly go to any lake without seeing a mixture of both wood and aluminum docks. So, if you were hoping to rely on common consensus, you’re probably out of luck. The truth is, choosing between either of these types of dock is a matter of personal priorities. Depending on the type of waterfront experience you want to have—and how long you want to have it—two different people could arrive at completely different conclusions.
Today, we’re investigating why many people prefer aluminum docks, and signs that an aluminum dock may be the right choice for you.
Aluminum Docks: Easy, Reliable, Comfortable
In a nutshell, aluminum docks are nice because they’re easy to use and install, reliable in the long-term, and comfortable. But let’s get into the nitty gritty.
Easy to Use and Install
Because aluminum is a very lightweight material, it’s shockingly easy to move. In fact, aluminum docks should theoretically always be lighter weight that wooden ones. Thanks to aluminum’s strength, it’s achieves wood’s reliability in much smaller quantities, making it the easier choice for (un)installing and moving the pieces around.
Reliability and Maintenance
Similarly, aluminum docks are also incredibly low maintenance compared to wooden docks. Compared to wooden docks, aluminum docks:
- Never need to be stained
- Are less likely to rust than wood docks’ iron supports
- Won’t chip or warp
- Won’t need to be replaced board by board
All in all, aluminum docks almost seem to take care of themselves.
Enhanced Comfort
Have you ever looked at an aluminum dock when the sun’s beating down on it? It looks like it must be incredibly hot—all that metal soaking in the sun’s direct rays all day in the summer.
Well, as it turns out, it isn’t.
Aluminum acts as an incredible reflective insulator, meaning that it often reflects heat by up to 95%. It’s so effective, in fact, it’s to the point where it won’t feel that much warmer than the air even when the sun’s beating down on it.
Meanwhile, wood is a poor reflective insulator, meaning that it will retain the sun’s heat and burn your feet on a clear, warm day. In other words, wooden docks are the least comfortable on days you’ll want to use them the most!
Aluminum Dock Installation from Local Professionals
Are you interested in getting an aluminum dock of your own? If so, then our team at Pier Perfection is here to help. For more information on our installation services, click here to contact us today!
