How to Choose the Right Dock Type for Your Waterfront Property 

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 Houston has gorgeous waterways, but every single one is different. Building a dock on an inland lake is a totally different experience from building one on the coast.

Fortunately, there’s a dock solution for every coastline!

What is the best dock type for inland lakes and bayous?

Inland lakes like Lake Conroe, Lake Livingston, and Lake Houston, as well as the smaller tributaries to the bay system found throughout the region, typically have consistent water levels.

We recommend fixed-pile docks for these types of properties. Fixed-pile docks are extremely stable. They’re great for supporting heavy structures like boat lifts and large watercraft.

If you want a solid, unwavering platform for social gatherings, fishing, or watching the sunset with a beer in hand, fixed docks are the way to go. 

What is the best dock type for bayous and creeks?

Bayous and creeks experience wild fluctuations in water levels throughout the year thanks to storm events. This makes a floating dock a perfect choice, since floating docks adapt to changing water levels with ease, and provide access to the water in both low water and high water conditions.

What is the best dock type for coastal properties?

A floating dock rises and falls as water levels rise and fall, making them perfect for tidal environments like those on the Texas Gulf Coast, on Galveston Bay, or for waterways that experience frequent changes in depth.

With the floating docks, you get consistent access to the water, regardless of tidal levels.

However, coastal properties are also good candidates for combination docks, which merge a fixed-pile section with a floating section. This offers the stability of a fixed dock for boat lifts and waterways, while the floating portion provides continuous, easy water access. 

Which dock is right for your property?

While we can make generalizations, the truth is we’ll need to get a look at your property to make specific recommendations.

There are many considerations to think about. Different pilings are appropriate for different soil conditions. The way you’ll be using the dock will play a role in its final design, as will your personal sense of aesthetics.

We’ll even ask how much time you think you’ll have to maintain the dock.

Then, we’ll provide you with a personalized recommendation, design, and quote. You’ll have the chance to ask questions and to find out exactly why we’re recommending what we’re recommending.

Ready to get started? Schedule your estimate today! 

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