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There are four primary types of docks constructed: permanent, roll-in, floating, and sectional post. The type of dock best for each application depends on where you live, your water level, shoreline conditions and budget.
Permanent Docks
Permanent docks are commonly used for large commercial docks and in the South where the lakes do not freeze in the winter. Permanent docks are rarely used by homeowners in the North due to thick lake ice in winter and government regulations.
Roll-in Dock
As the name implies, this dock type rolls on wheels for installation and removal. If property owner has a gradually sloping lake shore the aluminum framed roll-in is the easiest dock to install and remove. Does require a lot of space for off-season storage.
Floating Dock
Floating docks float on the surface of the water. Floating docks excel on lakes and rivers where the water level rises and falls significantly and for deep-water applications. Other dock types must be adjusted up and down if the water level changes significantly.
Sectional Post Dock
The sectional post dock is supported above the lake by 2 posts (typically pipe) per section. Sections are commonly 8 to 10 feet long. The post dock is highly configurable and usually the least costly type of dock.
| Types of Docks | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Roll-in | • Easy to install and remove | • Tend to deflect due to long spans between supports, which gives a bouncy feel. • Takes more lakeshore space for storage due to long sections. • More expensive than sectional docks. • Must be adjusted when lake level chances significantly. • Limited configurations available. |
| Floating | • No height adjustment required when water level changes • Very stable and firm • May be used for deep water applications |
• Difficult to install and remove • More expensive than sectional docks • More susceptible to damage from winds and storms |
| Sectional Post | • Highly configurable and expandable • Easier to install and remove compared with floating docks • Easier to install than roll-in docks when the lakeshore bank is steep. • Takes less space for off-season storage • Very stable and firm in water depths to 4' • Least expensive dock type |
• Becomes less stable in deep-water unless special bracing is used • Must be adjusted when water level changes significantly • More difficult to install compared with roll-ins on gradual shoreline |
