We specialize in marine and shoreline construction. From well-designed residential boat docks to major commercial fishing and floating docks, American Pole & Timber supplies everything you need to build the dock you want.
Call our experienced project consultants at (800) 716-0636
Dock Design
No matter what kind of dock you plan to build, choosing the right design is fundamental to making your dock building project a success. You may want to consider hiring a professional contractor or an experienced engineer to help design your dock.
Aside from water conditions (waves, water level variations, etc.), soil types, and climate your dock should be designed based on how you will use it most. How many people will use the dock? Will it need benches and/or chairs built in to it? Will boats be moored to it? Will it need special rails? These are some questions you should ask yourslf when you start your dock building project.
There are three main types of docks:
Floating Dock
Floating docks are great for areas where the water level changes often and/or the water is deep. In most cases floating docks stay in the water year around. A variety of shapes are possible when planning and building a floating dock, such as “I”, “U”, “T”, “H” and “L”.
Stationary Dock
Stationary Docks – also called Standing Docks or Fixed Docks – are great for rough water situations (waves, etc.) and a constant water level.
Wheeled Dock
As the name applies, the wheeled boat dock comes with wheels on the side of the dock. The wheels make it easy to remove the dock whenever necessary. Icy waters that freeze frequently are the main reasons for a wheeled dock.
Dock Building Materials
Treated Wood is the most preferred material for docks. Choose the right treatment level depending on the kind of water you are building in:
- Fresh water: A minimum of .60 pcf pressure treated wood
- Saltwater: 2.5 pcf pressured treated wood (or higher) is required
Materials for Order
We supply all the dock materials you need. Order materials including:
- Pilings (Round & Square)
- Pile Caps
- Piling Protection & Repair
- Stringers
- Timber Braces
- Decking
- Marine Hardware for Docks
- Poly Coated Wood Components
We can also custom drill and cut pieces to your specifications!
Dock Building Hardware
Use hardware that is either stainless steel, galvanize steel, or specially coated for marine environments. We also recommend applying zinc or copper grease on the threads of your bolts before tightening the nuts to prevent rust.
Dock Construction
If you decide to build your dock yourself, you will need the right tools. A backhoe or track hoe, an auger, a floating barge, or even a crane might be necessary to build your dock to last. Also, check your local building codes. You may need a permit for your dock construction project.
Hiring an experienced contractor might be the easier and safer way to go. We may be able to connect you with a professional dock builder in your area.
Decking Materials
Depending on the use and size of your dock you may consider the following decking options:
- Treated Wood Decking — Cost-effective proven deck option.
- Duxxbak Decking — Premium, water-resistant decking material
- Composite Decking (iDeck) — Strong, long lasting, and beautiful.
- Radius Edge Deck Lumber — Radius edge decking has a rounded edge to give your dock softer edges and a more comfortable feel.
- IPE or Other Exotic Hardwoods — Exceptionally durable and provides a unique upgraded look.
Duxxbak Decking
American Pole & Timber supplies Duxxbak premium, water-resistant decking for piers, docks and boathouses.
What can Duxxbak do for You?
- Additional Outdoor Living Space
- Storage Space
- Protect Substructures from Damaging Waters
- Divert Water from Foundation
Click here for more information about Duxxbak decking products.
Or call us about Duxxbak decking at (800) 716-0636 TOLL FREE.
