How to Install a Wooden Boat Dock

For people who own waterfront property, installing a boat dock can be a very good investment in your home. A wooden dock can be used for a variety of reasons including docking your boat, fishing and just relaxing on a nice day.There are a few things to know before you get started.

Permits

1. Check your local city ordinance, as you may be required to have a permit allowing you to build a wooden dock. Get with your local authorities and code compliance officers to make sure it is permissible to build before you get started.


2. Ask if you can do it yourself and if so, how much does the permit cost?


3. Find out what at stages each inspection must occur during construction.

Supplies

1. Hammer or electric nail gun


2. Saw


3. Extension cord


4. Srewdriver electric or manual


5. Screws


6. Nails


7. Pilings


8. Brackets


9. 2x6 boards


10. 2x8 or 2x10 plank boards

Installation

1. Using a professional dock building company may be neccessary for this part of the job. Pile driving the pilings takes special equipment that most rental stores do not have. If you can rent the machinery to drive the piles a couple feet below the ground then do so, but make sure it is cost effective.


2. Check with codes or a professional to determine how much space is required between pilings.


3. Test the pilings to make sure they are stable and then begin mounting the framework of the dock using screws and brackets for extra strength and security.


4. Finish by placing the plank boards with screws or nails, leaving a 1/4 inch gap between each one for expansion.