A boat dock is an investment, just like a waterfront property is.
You want to make sure you make the right choice. The safe, functional, and fun choice that will enhance your enjoyment of your shoreline.
Of course, everyone is operating on a budget. So if you’re considering a prefabricated dock over a custom-built dock built by experts, we can’t blame you. We just want you to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each option before you make your decision.
Here’s what you need to know.
Pros of Custom Boat Docks
When you purchase a custom boat dock, you’re getting a dock that has been precisely designed for specific waterfront terrain.
Got a boat in a non-standard shape or size? Our team can accommodate it. Have a personal aesthetic? We can incorporate it into the design. Weird landscape? No problem. Need or want features like storage, decorative lighting, firepits, benches, and other amenities? We can add them.
Plus, we use long-lasting materials that allow you to enjoy your boat dock for decades, so long as you maintain it properly.
Cons of Custom Boat Docks
For most, there are only two major cons to choosing a custom boat dock.
The first is the sticker shock. We can’t tell you the up front investment might not sound a bit high when we quote it. We just think if you plot out the costs over time, taking into account the fact that you won’t have to replace your boat dock for a long time, then you’ll see you actually save money in the end.
Our docks are even custom-designed to withstand Houston severe weather, which means you don’t have to worry about losing one to a storm.
The second is the length of construction. We know you want to enjoy your new shoreline right away. But perfection does take a little longer than prefab.
Pros of Prefab
Obviously for many people the lower initial investment required for a prefab dock is quite attractive. And it is faster, since you can slap one of those prefab docks down very quickly.
We can’t really recommend prefab beyond this level of convenience, just like we wouldn’t recommend a McDonald’s hamburger over a piece of Grade A Wagyu steak. But the option is there.
Cons of Prefab
Prefabricated decks won’t fit your unique waterfront characteristics. And they won’t meet your unique needs. You get what you get.
You might even fail to maximize your site potential, or raise the value of your waterfront property by any significant margin.
Plus, you have to deal with transporting and assembling the dock. If you do it wrong, the dock becomes a safety hazard.
Finally, the workmanship and the materials just can’t stack up to what you get with a custom boat dock. Prefab docks don’t last as long, and they aren’t perfectly engineered for local weather conditions.
That may mean replacing your new dock sooner rather than later.
Order Your Custom Boat Dock Today
We encourage you to browse our gallery and ask yourself where you really want to spend your time. A gorgeous custom dock that’s a testament to true craftsmanship, or a cheap prefab dock that offers little in the way of security, aesthetics, or longevity.
If you’re ready to find out what it will take to build the dock of your dreams, contact us to schedule a free quote today.