Lake Docks: 3 Elements of the Ideal Lake Dock
Now more than ever, dock builders and the nautical industry are offering increasingly more and more options for customers. As technology and our understanding of docks, boats, and bodies of water improve, so, too, does our ability to give the customer more options for creating the perfect boat experience for their unique needs. Don’t believe us? Just go to your nearest boat salesperson and ask about their options—you’ll be shocked how many varieties of boats there are for the average person to purchase.
Though, that level of choice comes with a major drawback for captains-to-be. If you’re not already familiar with the many aspects of a good dock, boat, or pier, then it can feel like you’re taking a guess at what’s best for you. At Pier Perfection, we believe that everyone should be able to make the most informed decision possible about their purchases, which is why we’re taking today’s blog post to discuss 3 qualities of ideal lake docks that everyone should know about.
Lake Docks Ought to Be Durable
Even if lakes don’t tend to experience the same strength of waves that oceans do, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s not the strength of the wave that wears away at your lake dock; it’s the weathering.
Just like how small streams can erode great rocks in half over a long enough period of time, your dock also experiences incremental, near-invisible levels of damage every day. For this reason, it’s important that your lake docks are as durable as possible.
Your Lake Dock Should Suit Your Lake
Much like people, no two lakes are alike. Every lake has its own profile of sorts, where its identity is determined by factors such as:
- Depth of the water
- Changes in water level
- Average wave height
- Flora and fauna
- Sediment
Naturally, then, each of these factors is critical to keep in mind when determining the right lake dock for you. If your lake experiences great changes in water level throughout the year, then a high-mounted dock may be your best option. Or, if your lake has a low average wave height, then a floating dock may provide just as strong of an experience as a regular dock but at a lower price.
Lake Docks and Freezing Temperatures
If you’re in the American Midwest, then you know: winter will always bring freezing temperatures. With this in mind, you may want to plan ahead for a dock that can be easily removed in the winter and installed in the spring. If you live on a lake or body of water that freezes in the winter, then we recommend a few options for lake docks:
- Aluminum Docks: lightweight, easy to pick up and transport.
- Floating Docks: Even lighter than aluminum (generally), and easy to pull from water.
- Roll In Docks: Designed with wheels, for easy transport on both land and lake.
Always make sure to remove your dock by the time winter comes, and generally by or on Labor Day. Otherwise, ice on the water will move with the waves and can inflict heavy damage on your dock throughout the winter season.
Are you looking to get your ideal lake dock installed by dock builders with decades of experience? If so, then contact our team at Pier Perfection today for more information.
