Key Takeaways
Floating docks offer superior adaptability for fluctuating water levels, deep or soft-bottomed lakes, and seasonal removal or repositioning without heavy equipment.
Accessorizing with railings, ladders, bumpers, furniture, lifts, and personal watercraft launches can enhance safety, functionality, and enjoyment throughout summer.
Modular dock layouts like “T” or “L” shapes improve dock stability and user comfort, especially for hosting guests, fishing, or navigating the platform with ease.
There are so many choices for waterfront property owners looking for their next dock system or dock upgrade. One of the biggest choices is the type of system you use. At PolyDock, we appreciate the durability and flexibility of floating dock systems. If you’re considering a dock system this summer, here’s why we think you should look into floating dock systems, too.
The Perks of a Floating Dock System
When weighing the advantages of different dock types, it helps to know more about what your floating dock does best. One of the biggest benefits of a floating dock is an obvious one: it works better in areas where standing or wheel-in docks don’t work as well. Areas with fluctuating water conditions, especially deep water, soft lake, or river bottoms, benefit from having a dock system that doesn’t require piles or legs. However, because of their unique design, you don’t have to compromise on boat dock stability. Because floating docks aren’t attached to the bottom of your water by anything except an anchoring system, they’re very easy to relocate or remove as needed. This makes them easier to manage in inclement weather or for seasonal boaters with a lot of ice on their water (not to mention the money saved on professional installation).
Accessorize!
Your dock is an ideal place to get onto your boat, so it makes sense to outfit it with a boat lift to store your boat by the water and add some tie-offs and bumpers for when your boating friends want a place to moor. You can even get launching platforms for smaller PWC if you have a jet ski. However, these aren’t the only accessories you can attach to your floating dock. So many dock accessories on the market that let you maximize the potential for fun, function, and safety. Think about dock ladders or stairs for swimmers and railings to help wet guests stabilize themselves on your deck (even with slip-resistant surfaces, better safe than sorry). Other furniture can give you a quiet retreat out on the water or a place for people to sit during a party. Fishers can benefit from fishing rod holders, cleaning tables, or even a dockside grill to cook the freshest fish you’ll ever eat. Your waterfront dealer will have lots of accessories, so keep your non-boating waterfront activities in mind when considering how to get the most out of your summer on your floating dock system.
Consider Alternate Layouts
When you think of a boat dock, you probably envision a straight platform that leads directly to your boat. However, especially with modular dock sections, there are so many more layout options that you can do—and those options can actually make your dock better to walk on. Consider putting together a dock system shaped like a “T” or “L” with sections off the side or the end of your dock rather than a straight path. This is more visually interesting, and this outward extension will make it easier to keep your balance because straight docks tend to wobble more than docks with extensions, so alternate layouts will also keep you more stable.
PolyDock Floating Dock Systems
PolyDock modular floating docks will help you get closer to your next adventure. We build our docks to go almost anywhere without requiring as much maintenance as our competitors. Our floating dock systems look great, and they perform well for years while also providing you with configurability and customization options you won’t see in many other modular dock systems. For more information, contact a PolyDock dealer in your area.
FAQs
Why choose a floating dock over a traditional fixed dock?
Floating docks are ideal for water bodies with changing levels or uneven bottoms. They remain level with the water's surface, are easy to remove or relocate seasonally, and require less maintenance than fixed docks.
What accessories can make a floating dock more functional?
Add ladders for swimmers, cleats and bumpers for boats, furniture for relaxation, and fishing features like rod holders or cleaning tables. Modular docks let you easily rearrange or add accessories as your needs evolve.
What is the best layout for a floating dock?
“T” or “L” shaped layouts provide greater stability and more functional space than straight docks. These designs distribute weight better and create separate areas for docking, swimming, and entertaining.
Can a floating dock be used for both boats and personal watercraft?
Yes. Modular docks like PolyDock support boat lifts and personal watercraft ports, allowing seamless integration of different mooring options in one platform.
