Deciding on the type of dock is one of the most critical decisions that any lake property owner should consider. Whether you are looking for a dock for boating, swimming, relaxing, or launching personal watercraft, the type of dock that you install is critical in ensuring that you enjoy your lake property for years to come.
Among the most popular types of docks include floating docks and fixed docks. Although both offer the advantage of providing you with a place on the lake, these two types of docks have several differences and perform better in specific lake conditions.
If you are planning to install a dock on your lake, this article is critical in helping you understand the differences between floating docks and fixed docks.
What is a Floating Dock?
A floating dock is one that is placed directly on the water and is supported by floats located underneath the floating dock itself. Unlike fixed docks, floating docks are not installed on the lake bed and are not supported by permanent posts that are installed in the lake bed.
Instead, floating docks are supported by floats that are specifically designed for this purpose and are usually made from materials such as Wood or PVC Decking, Wood or Aluminum frames, and Box or Pontoon style Floats based on a client’s needs and location.
With the changes in water levels that are expected in most lakes, floating docks have proven to be quite popular among many lake property owners and are the only option for deeper bodies of water or areas with very soft bottoms.
A floating dock is particularly important for any lake property owner who is looking for a dock that is not raised too high above the water level at any one time and is not too low in the water either.
With floating docks, this is not usually the case since the floating dock is supported by floats that are buoyant in nature and are thus raised and lowered naturally in line with the changes in the water level in the lake.
What Is a Fixed Dock?
A fixed dock, which can also be called a stationary dock or pole dock, is installed by using posts or legs that sit directly on the lakebed. The dock frame sits at a fixed height above the water.
Because of their stable installation on the bottom of the lake, fixed docks can feel very secure underfoot. This secure installation can actually be very desirable for homeowners who want a dock that does not move with the waves or the wakes of boats.
Fixed docks are most stable in shallow water locations where posts can be kept below 8’ long In many cottage locations, removable pipe docks are popular due to their ability to be removed prior to winter. An example of this type of fixed dock is the Pole Docks system, which features adjustable legs and feet that ensure the dock does not sink into the lakebed even if the conditions are soft.
How Water Levels Affect Dock Choice
Water level changes are perhaps one of the greatest considerations when deciding between a floating dock and a fixed dock.
Most lakes experience water level changes due to rain, drought, or man-made control of water levels through dam control. When water levels rise or fall substantially, fixed docks remain at the same level, which can cause issues for users of the dock. The dock might become too high out of the water or too low in the water.
Floating docks deal with water level changes much better than fixed docks, as they rise and fall with water levels. This ensures that users of the dock can utilize it throughout the entire boating season.
For those properties where lake levels change frequently, a floating dock might prove to be a better option.
Water Depth and Shore Conditions
Water depth is another important consideration for determining which type of dock will function best for your particular situation.
Floating docks function well in deeper water due to the fact that they are not dependent upon posts installed on the lake bed for anchoring. Instead, these docks utilize Dock Anchors & Chain Hardware that hold them firmly in place while allowing for movement with water levels. Fixed docks function best in shallow water where posts can sit firmly on the lake bed. If water depth is over 8’, installing a fixed dock can become more difficult.
In such cases, a floating dock might prove to be a better option for deeper water lakes and shorelines where water depth tends to change rapidly.
Installation and Flexibility
Fixed Docks and Floating Docks have different methods of Installation. Fixed Docks do not typically need to be secured to the shoreline because the dock doesn’t move once the legs are in contact with the lakebed. A shoreline connection may be added in rougher conditions to provide additional anchoring support but otherwise the installation of a pole dock is relatively simple and requires no special equipment.
Floating Docks do require a shore connection to keep them secured in place. Typical connections include bolting into bedrock, a concrete pour, or attaching to posts driven into sand or soil. A Floating Dock can also attach to an existing deck if the deck is strong enough to support the connection.
Both dock styles are factory built in sections giving the ability to extend and adjust your dock layout as your needs change in the future.
Maintenance and Longevity
Both floating docks and fixed docks require care and maintenance in order to maintain their longevity, and each style has its own unique requirements.
Floating Docks are typically left in the ice over winter as they are not impacted by ice freeze. It is important, however, to protect the dock from ice movement. This process generally involves detaching the ramp and loosening the anchor chains. This allows the dock to move with the ice without breaking any fixed connections. Loosening the chains also protects against high water levels in the spring that might cause the dock to lift or drag the anchors out of position. This type of seasonal maintenance is usually easy for one or two people to manage as there is not much heavy lifting.
Pole Docks can also withstand ice freeze, allowing them to stay in the ice in very protected areas but they are very susceptible to ice movement since dock legs quickly bend when pushed across the lakebed. The process of removing a pole dock for the winter can be made easier with wheels or floats, and the decking is built in lighter 5 board panels to keep the weight easier to manage. Pole docks can be designed in smaller, lighter sections as well if weight is a primary concern.
It is a good idea to look closely at your dock each season and replace broken or missing components. Dock Accessories, like Bumpers, Cleats, Ladders and Solar Lights can also be replaced if worn.
Choosing the Best Dock for Your Lake
If you are considering installing a new dock or upgrading your existing waterfront installation, it is vital that you take all of these factors into consideration to ensure that your dock installation offers long-lasting durability, security, and convenience for your waterfront property. With experienced waterfront specialists such as On the Water Designs, you can rest assured that your dock installation will meet all of your unique waterfront conditions.