What Are Floating Docks and How Do They Work? | SpeedRack

August 4, 2022

Waterfront properties and marinas commonly use floating boat docks but have many other uses. They can be helpful for boat owners who want to keep their vessels accessible at all times. These docks are also great for renters and vacation homeowners who want to use the property as a secondary residence. This article will explain what floating docks are and how they work.

How Does it Work?

An airtight, buoyant pontoon system supports a floating dock, which allows it to float on the water’s surface. It is common for pontoon docks to be made of sturdy material, often filled with expanded polystyrene or similar material that allows the dock to stay afloat even if the drum is punctured. It is usually easy for the seasonal boat owner to install and remove floating dock systems because they are connected to the shore by a gangway. A floating dock is anchored into the water by a chain in addition to being connected to the shoreline.

How are floating docks different from fixed docks?

A floating boat dock floats; a fixed dock does not. Fixed docks mounted on posts are a good choice in cases where water levels are not subject to significant fluctuations, such as lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. However, the tide level rises and falls in many bodies of water, so a floating dock is a logical choice.

Benefits of Floating Docks

Easy to Maintain

Material such as polyethylene is most often used in floating boat docks because it is low maintenance. As this material does not require painting or staining, you can immediately set up your floating boat dock. Also, it’s pretty easy to clean; usually, soap and water are all you need.

Floating docks are often modular

In general, modular floating docks come in sections. They can be expanded easily. A floating boat dock can be configured and reconfigured according to your needs by using connectors to assemble and disassemble sections.

Easy Removal

In the event of a hurricane or severe weather event, your floating dock won’t be damaged. Removing floating docks from the water is easy and can be stored easily and safely before a storm.

Adaptability

As floating boat docks float on top of the water, they are always at the same height as your boat or watercraft, making it easy for you to embark or disembark. Whatever the water levels are, you will be able to use your dock. A low water level can also leave you high and dry, unable to move your boat without scraping it.

Conclusion

The floating dock’s primary purpose is easy to access for boats on the water. When shopping for a floating boat dock, you must consider how you intend to use it. Apart from the obvious fact that you need a flat area of water to be able to attach it to, it would be best if you also considered how you want to keep your boat secure from any potential bad weather, as well as other vessels.