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At Radtke, we know from personal experience that owning a property by the water can be a dream come true. This is especially true for those homeowners and outdoor water enthusiasts who love aquatic activities like fishing, boating, swimming, or simply basking in the sun.
An important part of the waterfront experience is choosing the right type of dock to build.
While there are various options like wooden, aluminum, and floating docks, our article here will focus on the unique advantages of floating docks and why they might be the superior choice for your waterfront property.
Read more below about the advantages of choosing a floating dock, or contact our dock builders to get your custom quote!
1. Exceptional Durability
One of the best reasons to choose floating docks is their durability. Constructed from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic, these docks provide great resistance to moisture, decay, and corrosion, making them the superior choice compared to traditional materials.
Here are some reasons to opt for a custom floating dock over a wooden or aluminum dock:
Despite their classic appeal, docks crafted from wooden materials tend to suffer from rotting or warping over time. A wooden dock can last up to 10-15 years or so with good maintenance. However, a floating dock can you last you twice as long, at about 20-30 years. Hence, investing in a floating dock may be worth it as it will be a long time when you'll need to replace it.
Though sturdy and requiring little maintenance, the downside to aluminum docks when compared with floating docks is that the former isn't immune to corrosion and UV damage.
2. Adaptability to Water Levels
Waterfront properties often face fluctuating water levels, which can be troublesome for stationary docks. Traditional aluminum and wooden docks need regular adjustments to align with the changing water heights, a task that can be both time-consuming and physically demanding.
In contrast, floating docks offer a hassle-free solution as they adapt naturally to rising or falling water levels, making them suitable for various aquatic environments like lakes, rivers, canals, bays, or oceans.
If you live in an area where your water levels fluctuate frequently, you'll want to invest in a floating dock as opposed to a wooden, aluminum, or other permanent/stationary dock.
3. Ease of Installation
Another significant advantage of floating docks is their ease of installation. Pre-fabricated and ready to assemble, they eliminate the need for extensive labor or specialized tools.
Traditional wooden or aluminum docks often require professional installation – a process that can be both costly and time-consuming.
Floating docks, however, are user-friendly and can be set up efficiently by individuals with basic DIY skills, saving both time and money.
4. Low Maintenance Requirements
Maintenance can often be a hidden cost in dock ownership. For example, wooden docks demand regular treatments to ward off rot and decay, while aluminum docks require consistent cleaning and occasional repainting to prevent corrosion.
Floating docks, however, require minimal maintenance. Simple cleaning with soap and water or a pressure washer is usually sufficient to keep them in prime condition, allowing you more time to enjoy the waterfront lifestyle.
5. Customization & Versatility
Floating docks excel in customization and versatility. Unlike their wooden and aluminum counterparts, which typically come in standard designs, floating docks can be tailored to fit specific needs and preferences.
Whether it's the size, shape, or additional features like bumpers, cleats, and ladders, floating docks offer a level of personalization that enhances their functionality and enjoyment. Find out more about the pros and cons of different types of docks here.
6. Cost-Effectiveness Over Time
While floating docks might have a slightly higher initial cost compared to traditional wooden or aluminum docks, their long-term economic benefits are clear.
The durability and low maintenance requirements of a floating dock is worth the investment, since it will translate into reduced long-term expenses.
Moreover, their longevity means less frequent replacements, making them a more cost-effective solution in the long run.
Contact Radtke for a Floating Dock Installation!
Floating docks are easily one of the best seasonal dock choices for your waterfront property. Their durability, adaptability to water levels, ease of installation, low maintenance, customizable nature, and cost-effectiveness make them an excellent long-term investment.
For a durable, practical, and enjoyable waterfront experience, floating docks are undoubtedly worth considering. But it's important to choose the right dock builders in your area, (or have plenty of skill to perform a DIY installation). Our professional dock builders provide custom floating dock installations to customers in and throughout the cities of Appleton, Oshkosh, and surrounding communities.
If you're still undecided, or aren't sure if a floating dock is the right investment for your waterfront property, please check out our guide to different docks.
Get started with your floating dock installation by contacting the Radtke team today!