Category Archives: Dock Design

Dock Design, Dock Material

Pros and Cons of a Stationary Dock vs. Floating Dock

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A stable dock allows you to enjoy the water—whether you’re entering your watercraft or just hanging out by the waterfront. Yet these structures aren’t indestructible. Normal wear and tear might mean your stationary dock isn’t holding up like it used to. Is it time to upgrade your dock with repairs? Or do you need to spring for a total dock replacement?

The Difference Between Dock Types

Many dock owners have been satisfied with their stationary dock for years. But the newer dock options on the market might cause you to change your tune. Depending on your waterfront, a floating dock could be a better setup. Knowing the pros and cons of the two main dock types will help you make an informed decision.

Stationary Dock

Areas with high traffic tend to do well with stationary docks because these structures are less affected by watercraft activity and movement. Stationary docks also tend to work well for areas that tend to have a consistent water level. Plus, they can help give you a sturdy footing when you get in and out of your boat.

The problem with these systems, though, is that they can be difficult to repair. Issues with the pilings—especially in deep water—can be expensive to fix, and problems with warping or breaking are almost unavoidable. Dramatic shifts in the water tide can also make it tricky to enter the water or reach your watercraft safely.

Floating Dock

Swimming platforms and waterfronts with fluctuating water levels utilize floating docks because these systems can rise and fall with you water depth. This feature makes floating docks incredibly versatile for a variety of sites. Floating docks also tend to be more affordable to install and maintain.

On the flip side, a floating dock may not be your best option in areas with a lot of water traffic. Because these docks follow the ebb and flow of water, a busy area might make these types of systems uncomfortable for your needs.

Typical Stationary Dock Repairs

Being exposed to the elements can make it impossible for a stationary dock to last forever. Factors such as snow load and ice can wear down on your equipment. Then there’s the matter of sink holes or shifting earth. If you start to notice that your dock isn’t quite level, or that certain sections aren’t as stable as they used to be, it’s probably time to make some dock repairs.

Below the surface, your dock might be in need of piling replacements. Pilings are often the weak point of the structure, especially when ice and land shift come into play. Although repairs can be costly, they are necessary for a stationary dock. Ignore them, and you might be dealing with an incredibly unstable and unsafe dock—or even one that starts to slip under water!

Floating Dock Replacement Benefits

If you need a dock to support a boat lift, then you’ll have to stick with a stationary dock setup. But for other sites, a floating dock might be a better alternative. Unlike stationary docks, these structures adjust to where you boat is sitting in the water. That’s why it can be easier to enter and exit your boat from a floating dock, because these structures move with the water level. Some manufacturers even offer unique launch setups to make it even easier to enjoy your watercraft. EZ Dock products, for example, include low profile docks and canoe and kayak launches. These pieces can be great add-ons for a variety of dock layouts.

The other benefit of a floating dock is that it’s completely customizable. If you aren’t satisfied with your layout or need to expand, it’s relatively easy to make adjustments. Modular builds give you unlimited versatility with your design. Simply choose the pieces you’d like to add to your dock, install, and enjoy.

If you’d like a free estimate for a new boat dock, please contact our team at Deaton’s Waterfront Services. We’re always happy to collaborate on new designs. Let’s schedule a time to talk about your waterfront’s setup to find the dock that’s right for you!

Deaton's Waterfront Services News, Dock Design

How We Work: Deaton’s Waterfront Services

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We want every client to have a positive experience working with the Deaton’s Waterfront Services team. Whether you’re contacting us about repairs to your floating dock, need a new seawall installed, or you have questions about your boat lift, our crew is here to help. In this post, we’re reviewing some of the features that set our crew apart. No matter what type of project you need, we like to follow these guiding principles in our work.

Great Communication

Solid communication goes both ways in any relationship. That’s why our team works hard to listen to all of our clients. Every project takes our full concentration, and we’re proud to be able to supply great results. Our years of experience and commitment to good communication (and great listening skills) help make that possible.

That being said, it’s always helpful when clients let us know their hopes and concerns for a new waterfront project. We like to understand what questions you have early on, so we can do everything in our power to alleviate your concerns and meet your expectations. It’s also worthwhile to know other details ahead of time. For example, telling us that you have a dog on the property can be useful if we’re coming out to do a waterfront site evaluation. Good communication also means we’ll also work to update you along the way for our own progress. This type of reciprocity helps make your next project a success.

Video Consultations

We try to be flexible in how we consult with clients. Since it can sometimes be challenging to find a good time to meet in person, we like to make video consultations available for clients. Whether you want to talk about your Indiana dock or you’re located elsewhere in our service area (including Kentucky, Ohio, Illinois, Tennessee, or Missouri), we’re always happy to schedule a video chat with you to discuss your project needs.

Our clients appreciate this option for their design and repair consultations because it gives them information faster. Sometimes, repairs are relatively minor. Knowing what you’re facing before we come for an onsite visit can help you plan accordingly and give you a little more time to make a final decision. It’s easy to get the input your need with a video call. That’s why we like to encourage all of our residential, commercial, and government waterfront services clients to consider this option whenever it makes sense. We’re happy to work with you in whatever way works best!

Accurate Designs

Striving for top-of-the-line service is always one of our goals. Usually, this starts in the design phase. Covering all of the necessary details before the physical project begins helps keep our projects on-time. Plus, it helps makes the entire process more enjoyable for everyone involved.

With over 30 years of expertise in the industry, Deaton’s Waterfront Services aims to provide quality at every step of your project. From boat docks to boat houses, we like to offer clients clear designs to make sure all of your needs are met. This is just as important for residential dock projects as it is for our larger commercial and municipal waterfront assignments. When we can agree on a set design before we bring materials out to your site, it’s easier for us to avoid unnecessary delays and confusion. Our clients appreciate this attention to detail, and we know you will, too!

If you’re ready to continue the conversation of how Deaton’s Waterfront Services can help with your next project, please send us a message. We’d be happy to discuss your design options, repairs, or installation during a video call or onsite visit. Or, give us a call at (317) 747-4933 to learn more!

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, Deaton's Waterfront Services News, Dock Design

Choosing the Right Custom Dock for You

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Picking the right dock for your needs can be challenging. There are several factors that come into play when designing the setup of a new custom dock such as water depth, fluctuation, space, and maintenance. Deaton’s Waterfront Services offers free consultation with our experts’ opinions on the perfect dock for you. To better your knowledge on the dock that might be best for you, let’s look at the many different types of custom docks.

Types of Custom Docks

With new technology constantly being developed, there are several types of docks that each have unique characteristics best suited for your needs.  Deaton’s Waterfront specializes in four different dock styles: floating, stationary, EZ-Dock, and boathouses.

Floating Docks

Floating docks are great for water that is over 10′ deep. With multiple decking options such as wood, concrete, and Thru-Flow, floating docks provide a low-maintenance experience great for water with a lot of fluctuation. Geist and Morse Reservoir both have a lot of fluctuation, so floating docks are the best choice. Worried about becoming sea-sick  due to the fluctuation? With many decking and anchoring options, you won’t even be able to tell that you’re standing on a dock!

Stationary Docks

Stationary docks are best suited for water bodies with less than 10′ of depth. With minimal water fluctuation, stationary docks provide a stable walkway to enjoy all of you waterfront activities! Stationary docks are common in Northern Indiana due to the waters not fluctuation as often.

Boathouses

Boathouses are a type of stationary dock that come custom-built with a roof to protect your watercraft. Boathouse are a great permanent solution if you intend to stay settled! Our most recent boathouse, the Griggs boathouse designed for the Columbus, OH Police Department, features many amenities to best serve our boys in blue!

 

Deaton’s Waterfront Services offers free consultation for your dock needs. We will work with you to decide what’s best for you to help get you and your family on the lake for all your fun activities! For more information, contact us at (317) 747-4933, or email sales@deatonsdocks.com  -BD

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!

Commercial Docks, Dock Design

Accessibility and ADA-Compliant Docks at Public Waterfronts

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If you have a community boat dock near you and your neighbors, you want to make sure that everyone can enjoy it. Being able to spend time outdoors and around the water is part of life’s greatest pleasures . But if the public dock isn’t handicap accessible or ADA-compliant, you’re preventing citizens from fully utilizing the space. Getting a site that’s up-to-code and open to everyone makes a big difference in building a vibrant, healthy, and engaged community.

Waterfronts on state property and other local public sites need to be regularly reviewed to ensure that they’re not only safe for guests, but that they are accessible for people of varying ability levels. Easy mobility on boat docks and fishing docks helps make these spaces welcome to anyone who wants to use them.

Guidelines for Recreational Facility Accessibility

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) works to protect the rights of individuals, no matter what their physical abilities might be. The law helps ensure that everyone can have safe, convenient access to local government and state facilities, including our treasured parks and recreational areas. Boating facilities, as well as fishing piers and platforms, must accommodate people with disabilities. Both fixed and floating structures need to comply with the ADA standards.

In 2002, the Access Board issued some helpful guidelines for new boating facilities and other remodels. Outlining the minimum requirements for these sites helps public docks improve their accessible features. These resources make it easier to create wheelchair-accessible routes for fishing docks and other boating activities. Of course, it’s always best to work with a seasoned waterfront specialist when drafting your designs. The right team of dock experts will help ensure that any new builds or remodels are ADA-compliant.

No matter the size of the recreational facility, certain accessibility features will need to be in place. Large marinas and piers, and even small public campgrounds with just one or two boat slips must meet these requirements. By addressing the usability at sites of all shapes and sizes, the public can have a great time around the water—no matter where they are.

Accessible Dock & Waterfront Solutions

Fortunately, making public docks accessible isn’t that big of a mystery. There are plenty of waterfront products available that can streamline the process. ADA-compliant features make fishing, boating, and other outdoor recreation fun for everyone! Including some of the best accessible dock solutions into your site is a great way to help your community stay safe on the water.

Public Fishing Docks

Building an accessible fishing dock is often a top priority for commercial and public waterfronts. Since fishing is such a popular hobby, it would be a shame to limit anyone’s access to the lake or pond! A simple public fishing dock will let park visitors get a great catch. We prefer building with EZ Dock because it’s easy to upgrade commercial dock setups. When necessary, you can even add a floating walkway with guardrails to expand visitor access.

Public Kayak Launches

For a really convenient canoe and kayak launch experience, you can’t go wrong with the latest EZ Launch Accessible Transfer System. These models make it easier than ever for small boating enthusiasts to enter and exit their watercraft. The transfer bench is made with two different heights to accommodate varying wheelchair sizes, and the entire system exceeds the minimum requirements of the ADA standards.

Community Boat Docks

If your setup requires multiple boat slips, ramps, and access points, you can still count on EZ Dock. We’ve utilized their modular system to build floating docks in communities all across the Midwest. Because you can easily expand your design with EZ Dock, there’s always the option to add new elements for a better overall experience. Making sure you have the proper ADA-compliant railings and curbing for safe, accessible ramps streamlines these designs.

Ready to Improve Your Public Dock?

If you need help making your local or state property compliant and accessible, call on the dock experts. At Deaton’s Waterfront Services, we’re proud to work with municipalities and commercial docks of all shapes and sizes. We have completed multiple waterfront projects for state properties and public lakes throughout Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Illinois.

Getting your waterfront accessible and ADA-compliant is easy when you work with a professional team. To get started, simple contact Deaton’s Waterfront Services to schedule an on-site visit or request a quote. We would be honored to work with you!

 

Deaton's Waterfront Services News, Dock Design

Why to Plan Your Waterfront Projects in Winter

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For a lot of boating enthusiasts and waterfront property owners, the wintertime can’t be over soon enough! But you don’t have to be at a total standstill while you wait for the warm weather. There’s plenty of work to be done for your new dock in the off-season.

Waterfront Projects in Winter

One of the great things about winter is that you have actually have time to think through any projects you want to take on in the new year. Assuming your fall dock maintenance or dock winterization went well, now is the time to start considering other upgrades. What exactly will you want to add to your waterfront when spring rolls around?

A smart way to get ideas for your new dock design is to check out the upcoming boat shows in your area. These events provide a fun outlet to explore your interests in more detail. You can plan to attend a local show, or even make arrangements to visit an out-of-state event. Either way, it’s nice to be able to see what updates the industry has to offer before you get back on the water.

For example, you might want to add a kayak launch to your dock. Or you may want to install a floating platform for your family to enjoy in the summer. Being able to meet with a waterfront services company in person can be a great help. It allows you to compare dock materials ahead of time so you can find the right equipment for your budget and needs.

Professional Dock Design

New dock builds, repairs, and additions often benefit from having an experienced team. Deciding what type of dock is best for your property can be complicated enough, but you also need to consider the different styles of decking.

The dock design process can seem overwhelming if you go at it alone. With so many factors to consider, it’s often necessary to have a professional waterfront services team to guide you through each step. Your location and water depth will impact some of the most important design choices. Yet, you’ll also need to consider your dock’s end-goal.  Buying a larger boat or wanting to add a boat house or a boat lift can change the entire layout. You might need to utilize your waterfront differently down the road.

In those cases, a modular dock design can be a real asset. These systems are great for new floating docks. Talking with a professional dock company can help you identify the pieces you need now, without limiting your options for future upgrades. That’s one of the reasons why we like working with EZ Dock systems so much!

Year-Round Service with Deaton’s

Deaton’s Waterfront Services is proud to provide design consultations year-round to help with your next projects. Our experience with wood, composite, aluminum, and thru-flow materials can help you create the perfect dock—whether that’s a custom floating dock or a stationary setup. We do it all, from private residential docks, to commercial dock systems of all sizes.

If you have any questions about designing your new dock, or making plans to install additions to your dock in the spring, please don’t hesitate to reach out. At Deaton’s Waterfront Services, we’re always eager to hear from you, and winter is a great time to start planning your projects. Contact us early to make sure you’ll be ready for the next season!