Tag Archives: waterfront safety

Dock Inspections, Dock Material, Dock Parts, Dock Repair, Seawall Installation & Maintenance

3 Tips to Get Your Dock Ready for Spring & Summer

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Get ready to get back on the water! While we are currently in the middle of an extreme cold period with about a foot of snow in Indiana, we’re also about a month and a half away from Spring. No more cold weather! This means it is time to get all marine equipment ready for the upcoming season. Those that don’t prepare well will be sorry. If a piece of equipment got damaged by winter weather, ill-prepared waterfront owners will be stuck waiting to get on the water. And once dock company’s schedules start to get full it can take weeks to get something repaired. Today we’ll look at what to inspect to make sure your waterfront will be good to go in Spring.

How to Get Your Dock Ready for Boating Season

1. Inspecting Your Dock

Winter is harsh on docks. Snow and ice aren’t like rain in the summer that just drips right off, they pile on top and stay for a long time. So after sitting on top of a dock for several days or weeks, the weather starts to cause damage. So the first thing we should inspect when the weather is nice enough is the dock. First, inspect the decking. Make sure the material looks just as good as before with no rotting, splintering, cracks, or warps. Once you’ve noted the condition of the decking, move onto checking the frames. Look underneath your decking and make sure the frames aren’t warped or rusted. Make sure you notice if your dock is looking like it is sitting in the water lower than usual. It could be the entire system, or just one finger sitting a little low. If that’s the case, then the floats are damaged. Finally, inspect the anchoring and make sure it isn’t rusted or broken.

Now if you noticed any damage, it’s time to make sure to get it fixed now before the season starts. Fixing damaged decking, floats, or anchoring are small problems that can be fixed if caught early. These are all repairs that can be expensive of up to a few thousand dollars, but it’s nothing compared to spending tens of thousands on a brand new dock.  If the frames become severely warped or rust and break, then you’ll unfortunately probably have to replace the entire dock. Having an idea of what the damage on your dock is before you call in can help put your nerves at ease rather than waiting on a diagnosis.

2. Examining Your Boat Lift

Snow isn’t a real issue on boat lifts, but ice is. Instead of worrying about warping and cracking, you’ll need to worry if the lift is operational. Before we begin, always check your owner’s manual to see proper winterization techniques recommended from your manufacturer. There a lot of things that can get damaged during the winter on a boat lift. You could find damaged bolts, winches, power units, cables, bunks, or guides. After visually inspecting for wear and tear on any of these parts, it’s a good idea to cycle your lift up and down to make sure it’s working as intended. If you have a cable lift, be sure to listen closely and make sure you hear no snapping or noises coming from the cables. Unfortunately you can’t really replace a cable until it breaks, but it’s good to know it is coming rather than be surprised. For hydraulic lift owners, check your fluid and make it is filled to the appropriate level recommended by your manufacturer. Most issues and repairs needed for lifts will have to be dealt with by an expert. Fortunately, there are many experts with several years of experience at Deaton’s Waterfront Services.

Another aspect of getting your lift ready for the season is the canopy. Lift owners know to remove their canopy and store it for the winter to prevent tearing over the winter. If you leave a canopy on during the winter, snow is going to pile on top of it and destroy it. Call your local lift dealer and schedule them to store and reinstall your canopy every winter and fall. It will save you from having to replace a vinyl each season due to poor care.

3. Checking Your Seawall

The last piece of equipment you need to inspect is your seawall. Snow and ice will also warp and abuse a seawall during the winter. As water freezes and forms a layer of ice, it will push up against a seawall and try to morph it. As the sun appears during the day, it will cause the ice to start to melt and crack. The problem is, at night it will all refreeze and beat against the seawall. This constant cycle will damage the seawall over time and cause it to crack, warp, have gaps, and leak. If a seawall is well made with the right material, it will last for many decades but unfortunately you can never predict when nature will decide to ruin those plans. Inspecting the wall is simple, just walk along and inspect for warped metal, gaps, or leaks. If you notice a problem it will need to be fixed immediately before more damage piles up.

There is a way to help combat the damage that ice can throw at a seawall. If you own a bubbler, it will circulate the water throughout the winter never giving it a chance to settle and freeze. This will help protect anything you may have in the water including a dock, lift, or seawall. It is also helpful in the summer time to get rid of debris such as stray logs.

Final Thoughts To Get Rid of Winter

Getting your equipment working with plenty of time to get your boat prepared for the season is the best thing you can do for your future self and your property. While having damaged equipment will not only drive your property value down until it’s fixed, it also sucks to see everyone out on the water having a blast while you’re not able to. It’s best advised to have your equipment inspected by a waterfront professional sometime in the fall to give yourself plenty of time.  Once the schedule fills up for manufacturers and waterfront service shops, it can take weeks or months to get you a new part or get your equipment fixed. So make sure to see if your equipment will need a repair immediately to make sure you can be out there having fun with everyone else. If you feel more comfortable having an expert inspect your dock, feel free to reach out to us here at Deaton’s Waterfront Services. We will send a team out to inspect your equipment for a free quote. As always, feel free to contact us or give us a call at (317) 747-4933.

Commercial Docks, Dock Repair

Winter Waterfront Management: The Ultimate Guide

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Winter is upon us and the lakes are frozen. Dock owners that have experience with the winter season are already well prepared and have their equipment safe. But what if you’re a new dock owner coming into your first winter? There is a lot of work to be down to protect your dock, boat, and PWCs. Today we’ll look at the steps needed to protect your investment and keep it as new as the last time you used it.

Winter Effects On Docks

During the winter, snow will accumulate on top of a dock and the water around it will freeze.  This will cause a lot of problems with a dock and other water equipment. Wood on a dock will warp over time from expanding and contracting with the different temperatures. Steel will rust and corrode over time, causing frames to break and cables to snap. All of these problems are going to happen over time whether your take proper steps for winterizing or not. Winterizing your dock is a matter of delaying the inevitable, it all comes down to keeping your annual maintenance costs down low.

If you live in Indiana, or any of the other surrounding states, you’re probably wondering what you should do with your dock in the winter. Our recommendation is to first check with your local waterfront experts by giving us a call for a free consultation. Our advice is better than just going with your gut instinct. However, it’s not hard to determine your best course of action for the winter. Here are some step’s we take to help ensure docks are kept in great condition throughout the winter:

Protect Your Shoreline From Erosion

One thing that gets overlooked when preparing for winter is your shoreline. Ice and snow will melt causing your shoreline to erode over time, so having a barrier will offer a method of preventing erosion. You can either install a seawall or lay down riprap to protect your property.  For more information about shoreline protection, be sure to check out our seawall page here.

Removing a Floating Dock During Winter

A common step for protecting your dock in the winter is to remove it if you have the means to do so. Fixed docks aren’t able to be removed, but they should never be installed in a lake that freezes in the first place because ice and snow can push pilings apart causing frames to warp. So if you own a floating dock, you can schedule your dock to be removed with Deaton’s or do so yourself. It’s recommended to store dock in a dry, flat surface. They can also be stored outside, but make sure you have tarped them off properly to prevent any water from reaching them. It’s a difficult process but it will pay off by preventing unnecessary damage.

Most modern docks won’t need to be removed due to the changes in dock manufacturing over the years. Instead of being all wood based or steel, materials such as composite decking or hot dipped galvanized frames hold up way better under duress. So if your dock is newer, or you own an EZ Dock system, don’t worry about removing your dock. Around the central Indiana region, it’s pretty uncommon to remove your dock for the winter if you live near the lake.

Preventing Ice with a Bubbler

Perhaps the easiest method of protecting your equipment during winter is to install a bubbler under your dock. A bubbler will push warm water underneath your dock up to the surface causing ice and snow to melt and preventing future accumulation.  It will keep everything nice and thawed! Ice won’t be able to form underneath your dock around the floats. A bubbler will protect your frames and keep your dock in the water where it’s supposed to be. There are different levels of power to bubblers to give them a larger circulation radius. For more information about bubblers, check out Kasco’s line here.

If you’re in need of maintenance on your dock due to winter damage, we’re here to help. Our expert team will diagnose any problems and recommend how to repair your equipment to as good as new! For more information, feel free to request a quote or give us a call at (317)747-4933.

Commercial Docks, Dock Design, Kayaking, Parks and Recreation

The ADA Kayak Launch: Getting More People on the Water

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Living near a public or community dock is a great way for people who love the water to be able to get out and access it. It’s a great source of fun and entertainment that should be able to be enjoyed by everyone. However, if a dock isn’t compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards then a large portion of people aren’t going to be able to access the water with your dock. Making sure your dock follows all the guidelines set by the ADA will ensure that everyone can have fun out on the water.

Safely Getting on the Water with an ADA Kayak Launch

Among the many popular water activities, kayaking keeps increasing in popularity.  Many public parks and summer camps see this increase in kayaking popularity, and in turn they would like to increase the kayaking traffic on their water. While most able-bodied people can safely get into a kayak, there’s always a risk of falling into the water if the kayak isn’t supported.

Fortunately, there’s a solution available for everyone! With the EZ Launch system from EZ Dock, people of all body function are able to safely launch in and out of the water without every worrying about getting wet. The EZ Launch system provides a stable platform for people to place their kayak, and it comes with an ADA certified transfer bench station to safely transfer in and out of the vessel. This provides everyone an opportunity to safely and securely access the water. An EZ Launch system is a great investment because it will increase traffic for your park or waterfront.

If you’re interested in an ADA accessible kayak launch system, Deaton’s Waterfront Services is here to help! We specialize in making sure our docks meet all ADA guidelines to help get everyone on the water. For more information, reach out to us to request a free quote, or give our office a call at (317)747-4933. Our team of experts will work with you to design the dock that perfectly fits all your needs.

 

Uncategorized

How to Prepare Your Floating Dock for Winter

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Winter time is almost upon us once again, which means that now is the time to prepare for it. During this down period where your dock isn’t getting as much activity as it would in the summer is the best time to inspect your dock and marine equipment and make sure any repairs get taken care of. This process may take about an hour, but it is worth it before something expensive breaks. While stationary docks aren’t usually in an area where they require winter maintenance, floating docks usually are. The best time to prepare your floating dock for winter is during the season where it is not used. Today, we’ll go over the things to look for to get you ready to winterize your floating dock.

Preparing Your Floating Dock For Winter

Checking the Anchoring

The first thing that you’ll want to check on your dock is the anchoring. You want to make sure your anchoring is still secure and in place. First, check your anchoring to see if there has been any movement. If there has been, you’ll want to contact your local waterfront expert to get it fixed and secure right away, or else you could walk out one day and wonder where your dock went.

Picture of Winch

If your dock is anchored by a cable system, you’ll want to check the cables to see if any are frayed. Check to also make sure that all clamps are still attached and secure. Inspect your winch to ensure that the toggle pin is still locking and can hold your winch in place. Grease all the gears to make sure they don’t rust over the winter. You’ll also want to give your anchors a little bit of slack to account for changing water levels from fall to spring.

If your dock is anchored by pipe or pilings, first check to make sure all the brackets and fittings are still secure. With pilings, make sure to check the piling hoop along with collar attached to the dock. If you have PVC covers, check to make sure they aren’t getting cracked, as they are cheap and easy to replace.

Inspecting Your Floating Dock

After ensuring the anchoring system is still in good condition, it’s time to inspect the dock. Walk around the perimeter of your dock and inspect the frames. Make sure there is no broken weld spots, loose bolts, or rust. If you find anything broken, make sure to arrange to get it repaired immediately.

The last thing you’ll need to worry about is your gangway. Make sure the pins are still secure in place and haven’t shown any signs of movement. Also check your hinges to see if they have shown any symptoms of loosening.

Get Ready for Winter Maintenance with Deaton’s

Getting your dock ready for the winter is a stressful process due to the amount of work it involves. Fortunately, the expert waterfront team here at Deaton’s Waterfront Services are here to help! If you are in the process of getting your dock ready for winter and aren’t sure what to do, feel free to contact us or give our office a call at (317) 747-4933. We are able to come out, inspect docks, and offer recommendations for getting your winterized. As always, stay safe!

 

 

Dock Inspections, Seawall Installation & Maintenance, Shoreline Protection

Can RipRap Help My Waterfront Property?

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What is RipRap?

Riprap is a layer of loose rocks that is used to cover a shoreline and protect it from water erosion.  The rocks are typically a crushed granite material, varying in sizes. As waves come crashing in, slowly over time they will begin to erode the shoreline back and disturb it’s look. By covering a shoreline with riprap, it creates a natural look that prevents water from washing soil and sand away. The construction process begins by laying out a mesh layer of geotextile fabric to prevent soil from seeping back into the water. Then, the shoreline is covered with large rocks of crushed granite, typically supplied by your local quarry, to prevent the water from crashing into the soil. Overall, the installation process for riprap will not disturb the environment.

Geist Riprap

Why Do I Need RipRap?

While riprap is great for aesthetic reasons, it’s main use is to prevent water erosion.  There are many options for preventing water erosion, but riprap is the cheapest and most natural option. The biggest factor when determining if riprap is the right solution for your land is the slope and natural look. If your land isn’t too steep, such as a 2:1 slope where the land rises every 2 feet for every foot it goes back, or if you want to maintain the natural look of the terrain then riprap is the best option.

RipRap vs Seawall

The two choices that Deaton’s Waterfront Services offers for managing your shoreline are riprap and seawalls. Seawalls offer much more protection against shoreline erosion, but the construction method is also more intensive on the land. Heavy machinery such as an excavator are going to need to terraform your land into the right position then drive metal sheet panels into the ground. Seawalls are also more expensive than riprap due to the construction costs. If you’re looking for a budget method to protect your shoreline, riprap is the best way to go.

Deaton’s Waterfront Services has an expert coastal management team that ensures to protect shorelines from water erosion. We will come out and inspect your property to determine the best solution for you, free of charge. If you’re interested in protecting your investment from erosion, feel free to reach out to us or give our office a call at (317)747-4933.

 

Commercial Docks, Dock Design

Fun Waterfront Features for Summer Camps and Parks

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Every recreational dock has a different setup. But there are some key waterfront features that you don’t want to miss. Whether you’re getting ready for a new dock build or just want to make some general repairs and improvements, consider adding these options!

3 Features for Your Camp or Park Dock

If you ask us, one of the best ways to enjoy sunny summer days is to head to the water. Public parks and kids’ summer camps can always benefit from a great dock layout. We love incorporating the following design elements into our work. Any of these features can help guests and campers enjoy more of what your waterfront has to offer.

1. Swim Platform

For most lakes, a swim platform is a must. A small floating dock can give swimmers a great place to rest or soak up the sun. People can have a fun time jumping or diving into the middle of your lake, and it’s all for a relatively low investment. Get your swim platform installed correctly, and it will last for years and years.

2. Low Profile Access

Another thing to think about for your dock is low profile access. When people want to use a kayak or canoe, a low profile dock section can be a helpful bonus. These designs make it easier to get in and out of your boat, on just about any body of water. They are great for rowing teams, too. Parks and camps looking to get a brand new dock should definitely look into these styles.

3. Fishing Pier

You also have to think about the people who enjoy the water, but don’t want to swim or go boating. Building a fishing pier (or improving the one your site already has) can help you cover all of your bases for the general public. If you don’t know where to start, talk with some experienced dock builders in your area. They can help you assess your site and determine what type of floating dock, walkway, or pier you need to accommodate your guests.

Plan for Waterfront Safety and ADA Docks

With any new public dock or fishing pier, you want to consider safety. The right measurements for your water depth, dock length, and slope all matter for new waterfront features. You don’t want a swim platform to be installed too close to the shore. You don’t want to miss any secure railings for your fishing pier either. These might sound like obvious details, but they’re worth double-checking. Find yourself a good contractor so your site stays safe.

Also, consider guests of different abilities. Designing with the ADA-compliant guidelines in mind can help you make your park or camp more accessible to everyone. A review of your existing layout could be a smart place to start. Then you can just make the upgrades you need, rather than redesigning your entire waterfront.

Give our team at Deaton’s Waterfront Services a call when you’re ready to talk through your options. We’re always happy to consult with you on your best options for your site, and more importantly—all of your visitors!

Dock Design, Dock Inspections

Turn Your Floating Dock into the “Go-To” Summer Spot

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Having a well-maintained floating dock isn’t just a benefit for you and your immediate family—it can be a great summertime go-to for all of your friends and extended family, too! If you want to make your property the “life of the party” for summer fun, just follow these tips. Making great memories is easy when you’ve got the right equipment and know-how.

Tip No. 1: Plan for a Crowd

When you want to host the big summer bashes, you’ve got to make sure you have enough seating and places to lounge. Planning for a crowd can help you give everyone a place to kick back and relax. Keeping extra chairs on hand makes a big difference. Then, you can pull out whatever seating arrangements you need at a moment’s notice.

While you’re at it, consider stocking up on towels, sunscreen, and even spare sunglasses, too. Stock up on more than just food and drink to really be the “host with the most.” That way, if anyone forgets something at home, you’ll be able to step in with what they need. These little touches will make all of your guests feel welcome.  Once you get these supplies on hand, the only thing missing is just a little music. Everyone is sure to have a great time on your boat,  floating dock, or wherever else when you’ve got all the party basics covered.

Tip No. 2: Use a Team Approach

Of course, you don’t have to do all the planning on your own. Feel free to recruit your guests to lend a hand. Using a team approach encourages everyone to get involved, and consequently, feel more invested in the summertime fun. Let people know ahead of time if they can bring soda or donate some towels to your lake house supplies. (Also note: This sense of community might also help guests feel more invested in keeping your place clean!)

Tip No. 3: Promote Water Safety

The team approach can also extend to your water safety plans. Let your friends and family know that they can keep an eye out for any loose boards on your deck or issues with couplers on your floating dock. Your work gets a lot easier when you have more people involved in checking your equipment. Any problems are sure to get spotted, so you have less to worry about during the waterfront season.

You’ll also need to prepare for other water safety tactics if you have electronics around your floating dock. Hazards around the water can be especially dangerous this time of year, so doing your due diligence to prevent any mishaps will help keep everyone safe. A proper setup is key. If you haven’t worked with a waterfront expert to review your floating dock and other gear, you might consider having a detailed review before your next get-together.  Electric shock drowning is a very real danger on waterfronts, so you’ll want everything up to code.

Floating Dock Design from Deaton’s

When your floating dock needs a little extra attention, you can count on Deaton’s Waterfront Services. While we’re big fans of the EZ Dock products, our expertise stretches to all types of dock systems. So, whether you need minor repairs or a complete overhaul—our team can help you out.

If you’re in our service area, feel free to give us a call at (317) 747-4933 to check our availability. Or, send us a message with some of your concerns and details. We’re always happy to coordinate video conferences with clients so you can get your answers fast, without having to wait for our crew to come to your site. And because we service both residential floating dock and commercial dock setups, we can truly be your one-stop shop. Contact us today to make the most of your waterfront setup!

Commercial Docks, Dock Inspections

Managing Safety Hazards on Public Waterfronts

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Getting ready to enjoy another year on the water is always an exciting time. But you don’t want to overlook the proper safety protocols! Public waterfronts and commercial docks need to be especially careful about their equipment. Regular dock maintenance checks and being able to make necessary repairs quickly can help make the difference between a safe site and a tragic waterfront accident.

Waterfront safety hazards can be easily prevented when you work with the right experts. Here at Deaton’s Waterfront Services, we love helping boat launches and docks on public lakes, reservoirs, and other commercial waterfronts stay up to code. Two types of problems in particular can be a big cause for concern.

Accessibility on Commercial Docks

Our public parks and recreational areas are an invaluable part of our country, and a real source of enjoyment for so many people. In order to protect these sites and help make them available for everyone, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law in 1990. These standards cover fishing piers, floating structures, and other local or state facilities.

To be recognized as ADA-compliant dock, both fixed and floating waterfront structures need to be wheelchair-accessible. This helps ensure that people of all abilities can utilize public docks. Sites of all sizes—from small lakes to large marinas—are held accountable. Commercial docks and other public facilities need to pay special attention to these requirements, but sometimes certain features get overlooked.

If you ever need help maintaining your own ADA-compliant dock, just contact Deaton’s Waterfront Services. Our experienced team understands the importance of having accessible ramps, guardrails, curbing on the walkways, and other features for dock safety. We’re always happy to review your site to make sure it meets or exceeds the ADA standards.

Electrical Safety for Waterfronts

Public waterfronts also need to keep a close eye on their electronics. As we look forward to the summer season on the water, it’s important to remember that safety risks can exist anywhere on a dock or marina. Electrical hazards are especially dangerous for waterfronts. Marine industries have to work hard to protect the public against these concerns, but often, there’s a lot left to check.

While some regulations are already in place, electrical safety still makes headlines. Large conferences around the county address marina electrical safety every year—and for good reason. These types of waterfronts often work with a lot of electricity on and around the dock. If these electronics aren’t grounded properly, people swimming in the harbor can be at risk for electric shock drowning. The electrical systems for big marinas and around public lakes definitely need to be up to code. If you aren’t certain that everything is an order, you’re probably due for a dock inspection.

Talking with a waterfront services company can help you verify your dock’s safety features. In other situations, though, you might need to bring a marine electrician to your site. Regularly testing your setup can keep your guests safe.

Get Your Dock Up to Code

If you want to minimize the safety hazards on your public dock or waterfront, Deaton’s Waterfront Services can help. We have experience working with docks of all sizes. When you aren’t sure if your site is up to code, give our team a call at (317) 747-4933. We can either send someone to your location for an in-person tour, or schedule a video call to review your current setup.

Some of the best ways to make your site safe and secure are pretty easy to do. Make sure your wheelchair ramps are at the right angle, and update your rails and curbing to protect visitors from accidents.  A review of your existing electrical equipment is also important this time of year. For a truly successful season, don’t ignore waterfront safety. Partner with Deaton’s Waterfront Servicers to keep your site up to code and ADA-compliant all year long!

Dock Inspections

Dock Repair Prevention with Spring Maintenance

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As residential and commercial waterfronts are getting ready for the spring season, there are a few key things dock owners need to watch. It’s a lot easier to enjoy your time on the water when you know that your equipment checks out. Just follow our checklist to confirm that your dock made it through the winter safe and sound.

Signs Your Dock Needs Maintenance

Early spring is the best time to check out your dock to make sure you’re ready for the upcoming season. February, March, or early April, are good times for assessing your waterfront.  Plus, if you used a bubbler in the winter to actuate the water, now’s the perfect time to take it out and put it back into storage.

Checking your dock in early spring is a good idea for both commercial waterfronts and residential properties. Homeowners, public docks, and other commercial sites on the water want to make sure their dock is safe for the years ahead. Regularly scanning your dock for loose connections and keeping an ear out for loud noises around your dock can help you catch any issues long before any major repairs are needed.

One sure sign that your dock will need spring maintenance is if you hear any obvious, loud noises when waves hit your dock. This is cause for concern because that racket could relate to metal-on-metal activity. If your dock equipment is knocking around too much, something can eventually break off and fall in the water.

Common Springtime Dock Repairs

In the Midwest, ice on the waterfronts typically comes off around Valentine’s Day. Scheduling preventative maintenance with a waterfront services company can help verify that all of your equipment survived the winter in one piece. If anything did go wrong, spring storms will just make those waterfront problems worse. Without preventative maintenance, some docks can even break in half. Then those parts can either sink to the bottom, or float away and go over a dam.

Some of the most common springtime dock repair problems relate to anchoring. Checking each one of your anchors, cables, and pipes is key for having a sturdy, stable dock. Spring is also the time to take a look at any floats that sit underneath your dock for support. These floats can sometimes pop out during winter, which can cause the dock to fall into the water later on. A thorough check will also cover the connections between your dock and bridge. These parts may need to be tighten every now and again, and spring is definitely the time to check.

Getting a Dock Repair Quote

A dock repair will happen at just about every site eventually. But if you’ve completed the necessary preventative maintenance, these problems are pretty easy to address. In general, the same rules apply to the small lakes in Northern Indiana, as to the huge lakes Kentucky or Tennessee!

If you need a professional to weigh in on your dock setup, you can always count on Deaton’s Waterfront Services. We take care with each dock inspection so you can get the information you need to make an informed decision. First, we review any weak points on your dock and let you know if there are any possibilities of failure in the next year. Then we can share suggestions on updates, as well as any short-term or long-term tips that might be helpful for your site.

A lot of times, you don’t even need to schedule an on-site visit with us. So if you’re on fence about whether you need a dock repair, please don’t hesitate to give Deaton’s Waterfront Services a call. We can easily get a clear vantage point of your site with a quick video-call. That way, you’ll get all the suggestions you need (whether you need new floats added, more screws down, etc.) and a dock repair quote with a much faster turn-around time.

You can even send us pictures of your dock to talk over your options. Our crew at Deaton’s is always happy to provide you with recommendations for custom dock updates or other repairs. We can even send you links and images to other dock projects we’ve worked on with past clients. Getting maintenance is great for your peace of mind around the water. If you have any questions, be sure to send us a message. We hope you have a great season ahead of you!

Boathouse, Dock Design

3 Family-Friendly Reasons to Build a Custom Boathouse

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Not every waterfront can accommodate a boathouse, but for the right site, a custom boathouse can be an amazing upgrade. If you’re trying to decide whether a boathouse is right for your property, consider the following features and benefits. Building a custom boathouse is a great way to protect your boat and have even more fun around the water with friends and family!

Boathouse Benefits 101

Boat owners know that protecting their investment is key, both on the water and off. If you want to enjoy your boat for years to come, you need to take care of it. Boathouses are great because they serve as a convenient way to protect your boat from the elements. Constant exposure to the sun’s UV rays can do long-term damage to your watercraft. Keeping your boat away from heavy wind, and even hail, snow, and ice in winter are also smart reasons to get a boathouse installed. Yet all too often, people forget that these structures are more than a single-purpose facility.

A boathouse is so much more than just a way to protect your boat. Being able to think outside of the box and create a custom solution for your waterfront allows you to enjoy your space in a whole new way. Instead of looking at a new boathouse like a garage or “storage room” for your boat, it’s better to look at it as an extension of your dock. Utilizing a variety of features makes the structure practical and fun for the whole family—a lot like your boat itself!

Great Features for a Custom Boathouse

Boathouses that are custom-designed to your waterfront offer so many benefits. Your new waterfront structure shouldn’t just be a one-note feature. There are plenty of ways you can make it a new highlight for your recreation time. Consider these options for a new, custom boathouse that’s built to impress:

1. Enjoy Personalized Design

Like a custom dock, your new boathouse design should complement your existing features and surroundings. Being able to choose your materials to match your floating or stationary dock (or even your lake house) can make this upgrade even more special.

Your water depth and shoreline will impact how your boathouse functions, so be sure to work with an experienced waterfront company to build a structure that’s secure. Their boathouse designs and help with collecting permits will ensure your new build is a total success. You can consider adding a new dock surface to your boathouse or extension to your existing dock, too. Will you choose a more traditional, open-style design? Or do you want to go with something more versatile? Fully-enclosed structures let you look at your boathouse as an extension of your home that you can use year-round.

2. Add Entertainment Areas

Thinking of your new boathouse as a place for entertaining can help get even more mileage out of your design. Instead of looking at the boathouse as just a place to protect your boat, try to design a structure where you would like to hang out with family and friends. The upgrade can easily become the favorite spot for weekend barbecues, or a comfortable place to relax and watch the sunset.

Some new boathouse designs are doing great things with outdoor living areas. Much like your patio or deck, a boathouse can serve as a hang-out spot. Designs that incorporate multiple levels (like the image above) help you make the most of the space. Your boathouse can serve as a lounge area with extra seating on a sundeck. The upper deck is also great for parties and casual get-togethers. With enough space, you can even create closed rooms inside your boathouse to use for personal office space or additional storage.

3. Create Easy Access

As you review your designs, be sure to think about the whole family, and anyone else who might come to enjoy your waterfront down the road. Designs that utilize accessible features are a great investment because they make entering and exiting your boat easier for everyone. And if you have a small watercraft like a canoe or kayak, you might consider adding an EZ Launch to finish off your layout.

The necessary ramps and guardrails will help make your boathouse convenient for everyone to enjoy—no matter their ability. Paying attention to mobility issues will help everyone stay safe around the water. Custom docks and boathouses with these safety features already installed and up-to-code will help make your time worry-free and enjoyable for everyone.

Custom Boathouse Solutions with Deaton’s

Your waterfront is a source of pride. Anything added to your site should be carefully reviewed and installed with care. A custom boathouse can help you enhance everything you love about your property. It will quickly become a new source of entertainment—and a little peace and quiet. Deaton’s Waterfront Services is proud to consult with clients on their custom boathouse designs for long-term, permanent installs.

We’ll help you design the boathouse of your dreams and make sure it fits your property with the right permits. Please contact us to get started on your consultation. We’ll help you find the right features to make your boathouse one-of-a-kind for you and your family!