Choosing the right dock can greatly enhance your waterfront experience—whether you’re fishing, entertaining, or simply enjoying nature. There are several types of docks available, each suited for different water depths, shorelines, installation method, and uses. This guide highlights key dock types and explains why Hewitt insight can ensure the perfect type of dock for your property.

Common Materials for Dock Construction

Dock types differ in both structure and material. Each material has unique advantages for different budgets, climates, and usage. Understanding these nuances is the first step toward finding the ideal dock. Three popular dock material options include:

• Wood: Offers natural beauty but requires regular maintenance, such as staining and sealing.
• Aluminum: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, it’s a low-maintenance choice with impressive longevity.
• Galvanized Steel: Renowned for its strength and rust-resistant coating, though it may need periodic inspections.

Stationary Docks

Stationary docks are anchored in place with adjustable legs, poles, or foot pads. Hewitt’s Classic Dock, Ultra Dock, Vers-A-Dock, and Sectional Dock systems all share a stable framework that can be customized with various decking materials, sizes, and optional accessories. Because these docks remain firmly in place, they’re ideal for shorelines with fairly consistent water levels.

Key Advantages

• Stable Platform: Their fixed structure offers minimal movement, making them feel solid underfoot—even when waves or boat wakes pass by.
• Adjustable Height: Leg adjustments help you account for minor water-level variations, keeping the dock deck accessible and level.
• Customizable Layout: You can choose from different decking materials and add benches, railings, or other enhancements based on your preferences.
• Straightforward Installation: Many stationary dock models can be assembled with basic tools, avoiding the need for heavy machinery.

When to Select Stationary Docks

Select a stationary dock if you live in an area where water levels do not fluctuate dramatically throughout the year. These docks are especially appealing if you prefer a firm, unmoving surface for frequent gatherings or daily activities like fishing and swimming. However, if your waterfront experiences extreme water-level changes or you want a dock on wheels for easier installation and removal, a stationary dock may not be the best dock option for your waterfront.

Roll-In Docks

Roll-in docks (e.g., Hewitt’s Roll-A-Dock) feature wheels built into their framework, allowing you to move them in and out of the water with minimal effort. This design is particularly popular in regions where the dock must be removed or repositioned seasonally due to weather changes, such as winter freeze conditions.

Key Advantages

• Seasonal Flexibility: Easily pull the dock ashore to protect it from ice damage or extreme weather.
• Quick Repositioning: If you need to change the dock’s angle or location for better views or water access, rolling it to a new spot is relatively simple.
• Reduced Labor Costs: The wheeled design eliminates the need for specialized machinery when setting up or removing the dock.
• Corrosion Resistance: Many roll-in docks use aluminum, making them lightweight and resistant to rust.

When to Select Roll-In Docks

If your shoreline undergoes significant seasonal changes—like freezing winters or fluctuating water levels—a roll-in dock can save you time and money on installation, removal, and maintenance. It’s also a great choice for owners who value flexibility, whether for adjusting the dock’s position or easily performing repairs and inspections on land.

Floating Docks

Floating docks rely on flotation tanks to stay atop the water. Hewitt offers both Traditional Floating Docks and Truss Floating Dock designs, each of which naturally adapts to shifting water levels by rising and falling with the surface.

Key Advantages

• Self-Adjusting Deck Height: Because they float, these docks maintain a consistent deck-to-water distance regardless of mild to moderate water-level fluctuations.
• Adaptable in Moderate Waves: Proper anchoring with cables or chains can keep floating docks secure even in windy or wavy conditions.
• Optional Reinforcement: Truss models provide a sturdier frame for those who want reduced sway or extra rigidity underfoot.
• Easy Off-Season Movement: In some cases, you can detach and move a floating dock to a safer area during harsh weather or for winter storage.

When to Select Floating Docks

Floating docks are a smart choice for waterfronts with frequent water-level variations caused by tides, river currents, or seasonal shifts. They’re also suitable for shorelines where installing a stationary dock would be challenging due to deep or soft lakebeds. If you anticipate needing to tow or reposition your dock periodically, a floating design could be the perfect fit—just be sure to inspect and maintain the flotation elements and anchoring hardware regularly.

Seasonal vs Permanent Dock Structures

Some docks stay in place year-round, while others can be removed for off-season storage. Areas with harsh winters benefit from docks that can be pulled out easily to avoid ice damage, while milder climates may favor stationary docks. This decision often hinges on local weather, personal preference, and shoreline layout.

Shoreline Considerations and Local Regulations

Before installing any dock, check local permitting requirements and environmental rules. Factors like water depth, underwater vegetation, and shoreline features can limit installation options. Some regions may also restrict certain materials to protect aquatic habitats. A little research ensures you remain compliant and helps avoid issues down the line.

Contact Hewitt for Professional Dock Type Guidance

There are numerous types of docks to explore for your waterfront.  At Hewitt, we have years of experience designing and manufacturing docks for diverse waterfronts. Our experts factor in shoreline specifics, local regulations, and personal preferences to tailor a solution that meets your exact requirements. For a dock that enhances your property while lasting for seasons to come, reach out to Hewitt today or a local Hewitt Dealer.

By combining your own research with professional Hewitt dock advice, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a functional, long-lasting dock that elevates your waterfront experience.