Tag Archives: commercial dock

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.

 

Commercial Docks, Dock Inspections, Ez Dock

What’s the Best Anchoring for My Dock?

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A good dock anchoring system is a requirement for every dock owner.  That’s what keeps your structure secure and steady from season to season! Whether you’re just starting out with a new dock or you need to make some upgrades to your current setup, looking at your anchoring system is a key part of having a safe waterfront site.

Types of Dock Anchoring Systems

When you don’t have the right dock anchoring in place, you might be looking at trouble down the road. Identifying the best dock anchoring system for you will depend on your water level, conditions, and existing structure. Here’s a closer look at your options:

1. Pipe Brackets

Smaller docks can often rely on a standard pipe anchoring system. These setups even work for simple PWC lifts. The pipe brackets should be able to move along with water fluctuation, wind, or waves, and the poles themselves are driven right into the lake bottom. Typically, this type of dock anchoring is used on sites with moderate conditions.

2. Piling Brackets

Larger docks designed for heavy loads and high traffic usually turn to pile anchoring. Whether the piles are wood, concrete, or made from another durable material, you can use piling brackets to securely connect your dock.

3. Deadweight Anchoring

If your site experiences more extreme water fluctuations, you might need to look at deadweight anchoring for your dock. These setups use cables or chains to tie your dock to an anchor on the bottom of your lake or body of water. Your deadweight brackets and the option for a deadweight insert and cable winch can help make this anchoring system more reliable for your site.

4. Stiff-Arm Brackets

Some docks have the option to anchor to the shore. Working with stiff-arm brackets lets you stabilize your dock with a shoreline post or shoreline abutment. You can choose from a heavy-duty or light-duty anchoring parts. Depending on your needs, you may also want to add a cable system for extra support.

Need Help with Your Dock Anchor?

Dealing with dock anchor problems can be devastating. If you can’t confidently rely on your setup, then you might end up losing your dock after a storm, or worse. There can be real safety risks when your dock is unstable. A secure dock anchoring system can help keep you and your family safe. For commercial sites, limiting your liability is also a big motivator.

Whether you need a dock safety review or know you’re due for upgrades, our team at Deaton’s Waterfront Services can help. We understand the anchoring features that matter most for different waterfront sites and can recommend the solution that’s right for you. Let’s get your dock repairs taken care of before any accidents happen. Give us a call at (317) 747-4933 to start your consultation. We’re here to help!

Commercial Docks, Deaton's Waterfront Services News, Dock Design

Our Favorite Community Dock Projects of 2018

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As we get into another year, we like to look back on past success. We completed a lot of waterfront projects in 2018, but a couple stand out. Our two favorite public dock projects are unique because they each have special features that make them a “first” for the state of Indiana.

Because both of these Indiana docks are on public sites, you can go check them out for yourself. They’ll be sure to get a lot of traffic in the years ahead. We’re always honored to help with community dock projects. These two installations are definitely great park additions!

Cicero Kayak Launch on Morse Lake

Deaton’s Waterfront Services had the privilege of working on a new kayak launch located in Cicero, Indiana on Morse Lake in the first half of 2018. Located in Charlie’s Landing inside Red Bridge Park, the kayak launch is now a major focal point and an extremely popular attraction for the area. We celebrated the ribbon cutting on June 20, 2018 with over 300 people in attendance, including politicians and dignitaries from the surrounding area.

Red Bridge Park

697 W Jackson Street

Cicero, IN 46034

This public dock kayak launch was made possible through a grant process guided by Cicero Park Director Charlie Cambre, along with donations from numerous Cicero Park enthusiasts. It’s always nice to involve the community with these park upgrades.

What makes this project unique is that it’s the very first ADA kayak launch in all of Central Indiana. Special features make it safe and convenient for visitors of all abilities. The gangway that leads to the main dock measures 5’ x 32’ and has aluminum railing on both sides of the walkway. The gangway leading to the floating dock portion also has plenty of room for users. Multiple paddlers can now access the launch simultaneously.

With a 15’ x 20’ area and two accessible kayak/canoe launches, this is a new must-see destination for paddling enthusiasts, as well as first-time kayakers and canoers.

Laporte EZ Trail System on Little Calumet River

Our other favorite project of 2018 was an EZ Trail System for Red Mill County Park, located on the Little Calumet River in LaPorte, Indiana. Deaton’s Waterfront Services was hired to connect the Cattail Loop Trail with the Nature Preserve Trail. This new floating walkway is now called the Margaret Buerger Bridge.

Red Mill County Park

0185 South Holmesville Road

LaPorte, IN 46350

This EZ Trail System was also made possible through a grant. LaPorte County Parks Director Jeremy Sobecki worked to guide the application process. The result is something that the entire community can be proud of!

We are especially proud of this public dock project because it’s the very first floating observation walkway in Indiana. The environmentally-friendly structure allows the wetlands water to fluctuate during every season. So even though the water levels are different in the spring/summer to the fall/winter, the walkway will be able to rise and fall without disrupting the habitat.

The floating trail is 80” wide and stretches 240’ in length. Railing was installed on both sides. There are also benches on either side so visitors can stop to enjoy the views.

Got a Floating Dock Question? We Can Help!

Moving forward with a new dock for your public dock, local park, or commercial site can be a big undertaking. But at Deaton’s Waterfront Services, we’re here to simplify the process. From the initial consultation and design stage, right through the installation and until opening day, our team can help make your new dock project a success.

If you’d like to learn more about our process, be sure to send us a message or call our office at (317) 747-4933. We’re always happy to talk through your options, and we work all throughout Indiana and the surrounding states. Let’s talk!

Commercial Docks, Ez Dock

Commercial Dock Design Concerns and Insight

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Using the off-season to make plans for your new dock is always a smart call. If you can’t be on the water, then you might as well look ahead for a great setup next season! As a trusted commercial dock design company and installer, Deaton’s Waterfront Services is proud to be your partner through project planning, design, and installation. When you have the right steps in order, you’re sure to make your new commercial dock a success.

1. Plan Ahead for an Affordable Dock Setup

The first part of having a reliable and affordable new dock is to plan. Paying close attention to the details of your design early on will help prevent any problems from coming up later. Working with a dock company on a site survey is a great place to start. This allows you to think critically about your needs and create a layout that meets all of your demands. Whether your site is a busy marina, a restaurant on the water or a sailing or rowing club, a cost-efficient dock setup will require a good amount of planning. The fall and winter months can be the perfect time to get the ball rolling.

It’s easier to budget for your dock materials and other costs when you can get dock estimates long before the installation itself gets scheduled. Some commercial sites prefer to do this at the end of the year so their waterfront upgrades can get included on their expense reports. Others would rather make these payments at the start of the new year. Whatever side you’re on, a good commercial dock design is key. If you know the exact dimensions and features (like a kayak launch, boat lift, or ADA-compliant dock specifications) you want at the start, you’ll be able to stick to a clear plan for a timely schedule. That’s why it’s wise to plan ahead well in advance.

2. Allow for Future Commercial Dock Design

As you create your new commercial dock design, it helps to remember that you might want to make changes to your design down the line. In order to make those types of upgrades, a modular floating dock system is usually the way to go. That way, you’ll be able to choose new pieces or shapes to expand your dock. You can attach these add-ons just about anytime you’d like.

The great thing about modular dock systems, like EZ Dock, is that you don’t have to stay stuck with a single design. You can always rework your existing pieces into an entirely new layout, or purchase new floating dock pieces for a bigger layout.

3. Enjoy a Long-Term Waterfront Investment

As a waterfront facility, you want a dock that will stand the test of time. A professionally installed commercial dock design can easily become the star feature of your site. Floating docks for summer camps, waterway trail systems for parks, and sturdy structures for other dining or recreation needs all need to be built with care.

Putting the time in now to design your dock can help you prepare your budget accordingly. When doing so, it’s also critical to think of the long-term investment value. Old docks can be unsafe and unsightly. But a new commercial dock can attract new customers and visitors to your location. If you need help bringing your vision to life, you can count on the crew at Deaton’s Waterfront Services.

Our entire focus is building for waterfronts. From the design and planning stage all the way through construction, we’re here to give you a dock you can be proud of—plus any other features you might need to make your location even better. To learn more about our process, please give us a call at (317) 747-4933, or visit our About page to check out our service area!

Ez Dock

Connecting to Nature with Custom EZ Trail Systems

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When you have a sturdy floating dock, your water activities aren’t limited to boating and swimming. You can also enjoy nature while strolling across an EZ Trail System! These modular walkways offer the perfect setup for making the most of your property. Municipalities, parks, neighborhoods, and schools love these floating docks because they give you the freedom to forge your own trail in an eco-friendly way.

About EZ Trail Systems

The versatile EZ Trail System is a unique offering in the EZ Dock product line because it can be utilized in both land and water designs. Whether you need a path through wetlands or a wooded area, these units can get the job done—with minimal interference to the environment.

  • Suitable for Land and Water
  • Easy to Install—and Easily Moved
  • Less Invasive without Permanent Foundation
  • Meets ADA Guidelines for Accessibility
  • Lasts Longer than Wood Walkways

One of the best parts of the EZ Trail System is that you can reconfigure your system at any time. The pieces can be easily moved, giving you complete control over your layout. Support options also let you suspend your path over vegetation. This can make your system as eco-friendly as possible. Overall, the long-term value is a sound investment for a variety of locations.

EZ Dock Benefits and Uses

The EZ Dock products are great for custom builds because they utilize a modular floating dock system. This creates minimally-invasive trails to help park-goers, environmental workers, and students travel through flood plains and woodlands. EZ Trail Systems can work just about anywhere you need a safe walkway!

Floating Dock Walkways for Community Areas

Why limit your recreational area’s walking paths? With an EZ Trail System, you can let guests travel throughout your camp ground or park with ease. Installing a floating dock walkway for your residential area is also easy with this modular system. Consider adding a path across your neighborhood pond, or setting up a new trail throughout the nearby park. Because these platforms work for both water and land, the configurations are endless. You can set up one path across a waterway, and then let it carry on through the woods.

Less Invasive Trails for School Systems

School systems that have a wet areas or bogs on their property can maximize their land with a floating dock walkway. After setting up a custom system, students and staff can enjoy nature up close along the pathways. These paths are great because they let you take the science lab outdoors, set a new scene for art class, and more. And since the floating docks don’t disrupt the environment with extensive digging or installation, you can feel confident that you’re doing your part to protect nature.

Contact Your EZ Dock Dealer

Getting your own EZ Trail System is simple to order and install. Just contact your local EZ Dock dealer to start the conversation. With so many configuration options, you’re sure to find the perfect setup for your own walkway.

If you’re in the Deaton’s Waterfront Services area, we’d be happy to help you out. We work on projects all throughout Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Missouri. Whether you’re looking for a long or short path, accessible ramps, or even a floating dock platform, our team can help you out. Our careful design process will help you get everything you need in your new outdoor feature. Contact us today to learn more!

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!

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!