floating dock

Floating Dock vs Stationary Dock: Which One is Right for You?

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When it comes to waterfront locations, your dock is one of the most important investments you’ll make. Whether you’re stepping onto your boat for a day on the water or lounging lakeside with friends, a stable and reliable dock makes all the difference. But not all docks are created equal.

Homeowners, marinas, and recreational facilities often find themselves choosing between floating docks and stationary docks. Each comes with unique advantages, and there are several factors in play when it comes to deciding which dock will serve you best in the long term. Let’s dive right in!

Analyzing Your Waterfront Setup: Pros and Cons of Each Dock Type

Your shoreline and water conditions will guide the decision making process for your dock type. Floating and stationary docks respond differently to waterfront variables, so it’s important to consider the specifics for your own site.

Stationary Docks: Reliable Stability in Consistent Conditions

Traditional docks are built on pilings or posts. They offer a solid, unchanging platform, which makes them a great choice for lakes and rivers with stable water levels.

Pros:

You get sturdy footing for boarding watercraft

Long-lasting when properly maintained

Cons:

Piling repairs can be expensive

There’s less flexibility to modify or expand your layout

Floating Docks: Flexible, Adaptive, and Modular

Floating docks are designed to rise and fall with water levels. If you’re in an environment where tides or seasonal changes affect water depth, a floating dock might be the way to go. These systems are also popular for swimming platforms and kayak launches.

Pros:

Automatically adjusts to changing water levels

Easy expansion and customization with modular systems (Think: EZ Dock)

Cons:

May feel less stable in high-traffic or choppy areas

Not good for heavy boat lifts

Customization plays a major role in how well your dock supports your lifestyle. Systems like EZ Dock make it easy to add platforms or even turn a straight dock into a T or L shape without major construction work. You can expand or reconfigure as your needs change!

In contrast, stationary docks tend to be more rigid in layout. While you can certainly add on to a fixed dock, doing so often requires more intensive labor. However, for homeowners who value a solid, custom-built structure, stationary docks can be tailored with integrated seating, which is a nice value add.

Your Floating Dock vs Stationary Dock Investment

Regardless of which dock type you’re leaning toward, size is one of the biggest cost drivers. Square footage directly affects material costs, installation time, and future expansion potential. That’s why it’s critical to start with a clear vision for your space. Are you planning for a single fishing kayak or a pontoon party? Do you want your dock to be a simple launch point, or a multi-use platform for gathering, relaxing, or storing gear?

At Deaton’s Waterfront Services, we believe in offering fair, transparent pricing tailored to your needs. We know that no two waterfronts are alike. Whether you’re outfitting a quiet stretch of river or a busy lakeside property, our team will help guide you through the options to design a dock that makes sense for your location, lifestyle, and budget. We don’t just build docks—we build solutions that last.

Count On Deaton’s Waterfront Services to Get the Job Done Right!

At Deaton’s Waterfront Services, we always start with a free consultation. This is how we can assess your site’s unique needs—from water type to square footage and accessibility. Then our design team brings your vision to life using state-of-the-art technology, complete with 3D renderings and precise 2D layout drawings. You’ll be able to visualize exactly how your dock will look and function before any installation begins.

Once the design is finalized, we’ll deliver a detailed quote that outlines all components, materials, and services, including delivery and installation. Our goal is to eliminate surprises and make sure you feel confident moving forward.

Let’s create something that fits your waterfront perfectly and stands the test of time. Contact us today to start the design process and take the first step toward your ideal dock setup—no matter whether it’s a floating dock or stationary dock design!

Why EZ Dock is Ideal for Commercial Use

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When it comes to commercial waterfront properties, choosing the right docking system is essential for efficiency, safety, and reliability. EZ Dock has emerged as a leading solution for businesses looking to optimize their waterfront operations. In this article, we’ll explore why EZ Dock is the ideal choice for commercial use, touching on its durability, versatility, and low maintenance requirements.

Durability for High-Demand Environments

One of the primary concerns for any commercial operation is durability. EZ Dock systems are designed to withstand harsh conditions, making them perfect for high-traffic commercial settings. Made from high-density polyethylene, these docks resist corrosion, UV damage, and the wear and tear of daily use. This durability ensures a long service life with minimal upkeep, a critical factor for busy commercial operations.

Modular Design for Versatility

The modular design of EZ Dock systems is a game-changer for commercial applications. These docks can be easily configured to meet the specific needs of any business, whether it involves accommodating large tour boats, personal watercraft, or providing a stable platform for water-based activities. The flexibility to reconfigure layouts as needs evolve is a significant advantage, ensuring that the docks can adapt to changing business requirements.

Low Maintenance, High ROI

For commercial enterprises, time and resources are precious. EZ Dock requires minimal maintenance, freeing up time and resources that can be better spent elsewhere. Unlike traditional wooden or metal docks, there’s no need for frequent painting or repairs. This low-maintenance aspect translates into a high return on investment, as the costs and labor associated with upkeep are significantly reduced.

Safety and Accessibility

Safety is paramount in commercial operations, especially when it involves public access. EZ Dock designs prioritize safety with features like slip-resistant surfaces and sturdy handrails. Additionally, these docks are ADA compliant, ensuring they are accessible to everyone, which is essential for public and commercial facilities.

Environmental Responsibility

Today, more than ever, businesses are being called upon to make environmentally responsible choices. EZ Dock’s eco-friendly design aligns with this need. The materials used are recyclable and do not leach chemicals into the water, making them an excellent choice for environmentally conscious operations.

Conclusion

In summary, EZ Dock presents an ideal solution for commercial waterfront properties. Its durability, versatility, low maintenance, safety features, and environmental friendliness make it a top choice for businesses looking to invest in a high-quality docking system. Whether for marinas, tour operators, or any other waterfront business, EZ Dock offers a value-packed, efficient, and reliable solution.

If your business is considering an upgrade or installation of a new docking system, consider EZ Dock for a cost-effective, durable, and versatile option. Contact us today to learn more about how EZ Dock can enhance your commercial waterfront property.

How to Properly Use A Public Boat Ramp

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During the boating season, public boat ramps are a high traffic area that can be a little intimidating to new lake goers. Frustration usually runs high on the public boat ramp due to long waits and owners wanting to ensure they safely get their boat in and out of the water. If you have someone that doesn’t know what they are doing take up the ramp, it’s going to back up traffic and increase frustration. Today we’re going to go over some guidelines to make sure you have an easy and stress-free launching process.

How to Use A Public Boat Ramp

Using a public boat ramp is actually a simple process once you’ve gotten the hang of it. Most boat ramps are a big parking lot, so there is plenty of room to park somewhere to make sure your boat is ready for the ramp. Check the drain plug and make sure the motor and battery are working before getting to the ramp to help prevent a clog at the ramp.

When ready to launch your boat, back up straight until your boat’s motor is just deep enough in the water for you to back off the trailer into it. It really helps if you have someone with you during this process, but it can be done by yourself. Once you’re all set in the water, tie off to an area out of the way while you go park your vehicle.

Pulling your boat out of water is a bit more difficult than getting it in, but the process is very similar. Back your trailer into the water where the boat will be able to drive up onto it. On your boat, slowly throttle forward until you are pulled up on the trailer and your motor is barely in the water. Strap your boat down then crank up the winch to pull it out of the water the rest of the way.

Proper Public Boat Ramp Etiquette

There are a few things to keep in mind while using the boat ramp to be mindful of others. As stated earlier, tempers usually run hot at the boat ramp so do what you can to avoid an unnecessary confrontation. Some things to make sure you do while using the ramp include:

  • Make sure your boat is running properly before putting it in the water.
  • Stay in your lane to avoid hogging the boat ramp all to yourself. Remember others are using it too.
  • Don’t take all day getting set and prepared at the ramp. Quickly use it to launch your boat and secure it.

If you are respectful of those around you, everything should be fine. It doesn’t matter if you take a little time or not as long as others have a chance to get their boat in and out of the water and they aren’t affected by you.

By keeping this information about using a boat ramp in mind, your trips to the lake will go smoothly! If you’re interested in EZ Dock feel free to contact us, or give us a call at (800) 654-8168. Our team of dock experts will work with you to design the perfect solution for your needs.

The Best Materials For Building A Boat Dock

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Designing a boat dock can be intimidating with all the choices you need to make to get the perfect dock for you. The main goal is to design a dock that will last as long as possible that will also fit your needs. One of the biggest factors in deciding how long your dock will last before needing repaired of replaced is the material it is constructed out of. Today we’ll discuss the different materials used for building boat docks and the benefits of each one.

Different Types of Boat Dock Materials

Wood

Wood is one of the two most common materials used for boat docks. If you’re on a budget, wood is by far the cheapest option you will find to build your dock out of. A lot of major hardware stores and marine suppliers even sell dock kits for you to build your own wooden dock. These normally include all hardware needed to fasten and secure the dock, all that would be needed is the wood.

The major disadvantage to owning a wooden dock is it’s short lifetime and all the maintenance that comes with it. Water and wood don’t work well with each other, and over time wood will begin to rot and splinter after several years of being exposed to the water. Wood is treated with chemicals to help resist water absorption, but over time that protective layer will fade away. The average life time of a wood boat dock is between 10 and 15 years. The different types of wood can also increase the life of a dock if a timber such as cedar is used. Great upkeep and maintenance, such as replacing individual boards as needed, will increase the life of the dock. Wood is a good option for budgets, but won’t last as long as other materials.

Steel

The next most common material option for boat docks is steel. Steel is a heavy, durable material that can withstand heavier loads of pressure from waves and traffic than wood. The tensile strength of steel allows it to bend and turn then return to it’s original form. This makes steel a better dock material for community docks or areas with more boat traffic. It is the strongest material that you can make a dock out of. As expected, such superior strength comes with an increase in price.

There are also some disadvantages with steel. The biggest concern you’ll have with steel is rust. As with wood, steel over time will degrade when exposed to wet conditions. To combat this and expand the life of a dock we dip steel dock frames into a mixture of molten zinc to give it a protective layer against corrosion. This process is called hot-dipped galvanization. The average life time of a steel dock is around 50 years. Compared to wood, steel is a far superior option.

Aluminum

Another form of metal that is great for docks is Aluminum. It is a lightweight material that has nearly the same strength as steel. The greatest thing about aluminum compared to steel is the resistance to corrosion. Aluminum doesn’t lose its strength while in the water oxidizing, meaning it lasts considerably longer than steel and requires next to no maintenance. However, aluminum is more expensive than steel. The lifespan of aluminum is higher than steel, so you’re looking at around 65+ years of use with this material. If you’re looking for a durable, cool-to-the-touch, lightweight material then aluminum is the best option for you.

Polyethylene (EZ Dock)

A great material for the water that will never rot, splinter, or rust is plastic. Plastic, such as polyethylene, can be used to create durable, floating dock sections that will last longer than any of the materials listed above. It features the durability and longevity of aluminum, without the high price. In addition to its durability, EZ Dock sections also offer flexibility when it comes to design and budget. With EZ Dock, you’re able to expand, reconfigure, or remove sections of your dock with ease. No other material offers this flexibility in the design. You also won’t have to worry about decking and floats with EZ Dock, so it’s pretty budget friendly compared to the other options. Overall if you are looking for a dock with the least amount of headaches that will last the longest, then EZ Dock is your option.

If you’re interested in building a new boat dock, or have any questions regarding the materials discussed in this blog feel free to reach out to our team of experts for more information. We’ll make sure to understand all of your needs and come up with the perfect solution for you!

The Top 5 Accessories Dock Owners Need

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Owning a boat dock serves more than just one function besides being a stable platform to get in and out of your boat. There are many activities and fun to be had on the water, but some can be difficult if they aren’t the first thing in mind when designing a dock. Some people don’t think about having a ladder as an access point for swimming for example. Today we’re going to look at some great accessories a boat dock owner needs to get the most out of their dock!

EZ Dock System Equipped with Many Accessories

1. EZ Dock Bench Kit

On a platform where so much action is performed, maybe there should be a spot to rest for a little inaction? Look no further than the EZ Dock Bench Kit. Featuring two polyethylene planks that will never rot, splinter, or rust, the bench kit from EZ Dock is a great investment for people that just love to spend time outside soaking up sun! This kit can come included with armrests with built-in drink holders too! The EZ Dock bench kit will make your dock the hot spot to go relax.

2. EZ Dock Swim Ladder

For those that love to get in the water for a dip, the EZ Dock Swim Ladder makes getting in and out easy and safe. Getting in the water is hardly a problem for swimmers, but without an access point it can be difficult. Mostly people with a lot of upper body strength are going to be able to pull themselves up onto a dock, and it’s a pretty unsafe method of doing so. With the EZ Dock swim ladder, everyone is able to safely get themselves in and out of the water. The ladder has no exposed hardware, and is capable of a weight capacity of up to 400 lbs.

3. EZ Dock Pocket Filler Lights

With this great accessory your dock becomes more than just the go-to spot during the day, but it will also become the hot spot at night! EZ Dock Pocket Filler Lights fit right into the pockets on an EZ Dock meaning there’s really no installation required. These solar lights are a great way for you to light your dock up and not worry about wiring and electricity.

4. 8″ Nylon Cleats

The main purpose of a boat dock is to have a place to safely and securely store your boat. Without a way of keeping it anchored and secure, it’s going to float away. With our nylon cleats, you’ll have a method of tying up your boat so you’ll know exactly where it will be the next time you come to look for it. EZ Dock nylon cleats are simple to install, just simple screw the 2 screws down to hold it in place!

5. EZ Dock Bumper Kit

Some boaters overlook the protection needed to keep their dock and boat safe from weather and wind damage. Without bumper or some other form of protection, wind will cause a boat to be blown into a dock where waves will cause it to repeatedly crash into the dock causing damage to both the dock and the hull of the boat. Thankfully, EZ Dock bumper is easy to install with only a few screws, and provides a large barrier of protection to help keep your boat and dock good as new!

If you’re interested in more of EZ Dock’s accessories be sure to check out our accessory page here. We offer much more than what’s listed in this blog including several storage box options. If you’re curious as to what would be the best solution for your dock, reach out to our team of experts and we’ll gladly assist you with any questions you may have. If you’re interested in a new dock solution, look no further than EZ Dock! Call today to find out about the best modular dock system currently on the market today at (800) 654-8168.