Posted on January 23, 2025

Best Materials for Floating Docks

 

Floating Dock Materials: Best Floating Dock Building Materials

Written by PolyDock Products Marketing

For many property owners, floating docks’ adaptability to varying environmental conditions, ease of installation, and highly customizable design make them the ideal waterfront solution for various applications. But while innovative design is at the core of floating docks’ versatility, their longevity and ease of ownership hinges on the quality of materials used for their components. 

 

Below, we compare popular floating dock material options so you can build a dock system that optimizes your investment and maximizes your time on the water.

PolyDock floating dock system with green canopy

Floating Dock Material Basics

Floating docks are traditionally composed of three primary components: the frame, the floatation system, and the decking material. Here’s an overview of how different materials influence dock performance and longevity:

  • Frame: The frame is the structural backbone of the dock, connecting the decking to the floatation system. Common materials used for floating dock frames include aluminum, steel, and wood. Each material has advantages and considerations, so the best choice depends on your specific needs, environmental conditions, and budget.
  • Floatation System: This component keeps the dock buoyant and stable. Modern floats are usually made from polymers, such as polyethylene and expanded polystyrene (EPS). These materials offer excellent buoyancy, durability, and resistance to punctures and waterlogging. 
  • Decking: This surface layer endures constant exposure to the sun, water, and foot traffic, making the choice of decking material crucial to its durability and maintenance requirements. Popular materials include pressure-treated wood, aluminum, plastics, and polymers.  

Unlike floating docks with separate frames, decking, and flotation, PolyDock takes an innovative approach, utilizing modular, rotationally molded polyethylene that integrates the deck surface and flotation into a single, seamless unit. The rotational molding process creates seamless, one-piece structures, eliminating the need for joining or welding, which can create weak points (RotoMold USA, n.d.). 

Top Materials for Building Durable Floating Docks

The best floating docks can withstand UV degradation, rough water impacts, and heavy use while requiring minimal maintenance. Here’s a rundown of the best material options:

  • Aluminum: Aluminum is significantly lighter than steel, making it easier to transport, install, and reconfigure dock sections. Despite its weight, aluminum is surprisingly strong and can withstand significant loads and impacts. This ensures the platform's structural integrity and longevity. In addition to its sleek, modern appearance that enhances the dock’s aesthetic appeal, aluminum naturally forms a protective oxide layer that resists rust and corrosion, even in saltwater environments.
  • High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE): HDPE is a popular choice for floating docks due to its excellent durability and resistance to rotting, corrosion, impacts, and UV damage. It is virtually maintenance-free and does not absorb water, preventing waterlogging and ensuring long-lasting buoyancy. These properties enable HDPE to perform in various environmental conditions, from calm tropical lakes to frigid coastal waters. 
  • Composites: Composite decking combines the natural look of wood with the durability of plastic. Commonly made from a blend of wood fibers and polymers, composite decking is resistant to moisture, rotting, and insect damage. It is also slip-resistant and only requires occasional cleaning to keep looking its best. 
  • Wood: Pressure-treated wood or marine-grade lumber remains a traditional and economical option for floating docks. However, while it offers natural beauty, wood requires regular maintenance, including sealing and staining, to prevent rot and decay.=

With its modular dock sections made from seamless rotomolded polyethylene structures integrating the deck surface and floatation, PolyDock provides a system that’s easy to install, remove, reconfigure, and maintain. Contact us today to learn more about our modular docking systems and take the first step towards a reliable, hassle-free waterfront experience. 

Comparing the Best Decking Materials for Floating Docks

Whether strolling across the dock on a summer day or gazing across the lake to take in autumn’s vibrant hues, the decking is what you interact with the most, making its look and feel an integral part of the ownership experience. 

Here are some considerations to factor into your choice:

  • Low Cost, High Maintenance: Wood provides a classic, natural aesthetic that seamlessly blends with any environment. It’s widely available and is usually the most affordable option. However, this decking material requires regular maintenance to mitigate wood’s propensity to warp, rot, and splinter, which could ultimately offset the lower upfront costs.
  • Sleek But Slippery: Aluminum decking is an excellent choice for those who prefer a more modern and elegant aesthetic. It’s lightweight, durable, and requires minimal maintenance. However, aluminum decking panels can become slippery, particularly in areas that regularly experience wet and icy conditions. 
  • Striking A Balance: For those looking to balance cost and durability, polymer decking panels are a popular choice. They offer the cost-effectiveness of natural cedar wood panels and provide solid winter protection without constant upkeep (Brinson Marine, 2021).

PolyDock floating dock sections feature a slip and UV-resistant herringbone brick pattern that’s as easy on the eyes as it is on the feet. They require minimal maintenance, allowing owners to spend less time worrying about their floating dock maintenance and more time doing what they enjoy.

Comprehensive Floating Dock Materials List

Here are other floating dock materials to consider:

  • Galvanized Steel: This material is exceptionally strong, making it suitable for docks regularly subjected to heavy loads or harsh conditions. However, steel is heavier than materials like aluminum or HDPE, which can make transportation and installation more challenging.
  • Expanded Polystyrene (EPS): EPS is a lightweight, rigid foam that is highly buoyant and hydrophobic. EPS foam-filled floats are typically encased in HDPE to enhance strength and resistance to UV rays, punctures, and impacts. 
  • Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): Vinyl decking is a popular choice for floating dock platforms due to its durability, low maintenance, and versatility. They come in a variety of colors and textures to match any environment and aesthetic preference. 

Ultimately, the best materials will depend on your environmental conditions, budget, and personal preferences. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and find the optimal waterfront solution for your specific applications. 

Choosing the Right Floating Dock Building Materials for Your Needs

When it comes to building a floating dock, understanding your priorities is the first step to finding the optimal solution. Whether you value ease of ownership, customization, or durability, assessing what matters most enables you to invest in a dock system that works for you. Contact us today to explore our floating dock systems and experience the PolyDock difference. 

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