Tag Archives: Deaton’s Waterfront Services

Dock Design

Complimentary Waterfront Designs for Architects, Engineers, and More

Leave a comment

When we’re planning a new waterfront designs, we can’t always operate as a one-person show. Most of the time, a collaborative process is best. You just need to have the right team. Getting experience on your side—from a variety of sources—can help bring your vision to life.

That’s where our crew at Deaton’s Waterfront Services can come into play. We’re proud to offer complimentary design services for architects, engineers, and surveyors. It’s a seamless add-on for any project. Together, we can get the job done.

The Best Features for Your Waterfront Project

No matter what your waterfront project might be, you always need to get the design work squared away at the start. Whether you’re designing a new public park and want an ADA-compliant fishing platform, or you’re planning to build an expanded floating dock for a marina, a waterfront design team can help you think through all the details and options.

Some of the best features for your waterfront project might include a custom floating dock, kayak launch, or boardwalk. Working with a professional dock builder can be a great way to get your own design working as it should.

For example, do you know how much space you need for your dock? Have you considered added a convenience factor like a kayak launch of fishing pier to appeal to a wider audience? How will you know that your boardwalk and gangways are up to code for the ADA guidelines? Our team has a wide range of experience with all of these concerns and more.

A Seamless Process for Waterfront Designs

Even if you’ve worked on waterfront projects in the past, it’s nice to have a second set of eyes. Engineers and architects for waterfront properties appreciate our level of precision and attention to waterfront safety. The same goes for surveyors and managers—for any type of waterfront property. Whatever your needs might be, we’d be happy to discuss your options.

While you’re busy overseeing the entire design process, let us help with the logistics for your dock design, boardwalk, and specialty features. We can work with you to find the right placement for your kayak launches, fishing piers, other platforms, and more. Take advantage of our free designs (all done in-house) to have a truly seamless process for getting your total concepts approved.

Ready to Partner with Deaton’s?

Our goal is to help make your planning stage go as smoothly as possible. We know you’re putting a lot of thought into your new waterfront designs, and we want to support your process. Deaton’s Waterfront Services proudly partners with architects, engineers, and surveyors throughout the states of Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Illinois, Tennessee, and Missouri.

Do you have other questions about our complimentary dock design process? Want more information on our designs for other waterfront features? Please give us a call at (317) 747-4933. Once we have the right information about your site, we’ll be able to dive right in to designing!

Dock Design, Ez Dock

Beginner Kayak Features to Get You Out on the Water

Leave a comment

You don’t have to stick to boating to enjoy your time on the water. Learning how to kayak can be a great hobby to pick up at any age. If you aren’t a fan of swimming, or it’s not safe to swim around your waterfront site, then kayaking can be a fun way to exercise—you just need to know how to start out.

Using a Kayak Launch on the Dock

The first thing to practice when you’re beginning to kayak is how to get in and out of the kayak. Some areas will only give you the option to get into your kayak from the shore. In that case, move the kayak as close to the water as possible. Then just climb in, sit down, and you should be able to push yourself into the water with your arms. Once you’re floating, you’ll be able to start paddling.

The other way to get into your kayak is from a dock. When your dock has a designated kayak launch, sitting down is usually much easier. Otherwise, you have to carefully balance your kayak as you step into it. Depending on the dock and water level, you might have quite a drop into the water!

A kayak launch is usually more convenient, especially for beginners. These setups let you ease yourself into the kayak in a secure, stable way. We like the EZ Kayak Launch because it’s durable and slip-resistant. It also goes above and beyond the ADA requirements, so pretty much anyone can use it to safely enter and exit their kayak. If you have questions about installing this feature for your waterfront, we’d be happy to help.

Learning How to Paddle a Kayak

There are four basic paddle strokes for navigating your kayak. Even as a beginner kayaker, it’s pretty simple to master these movements. The first one is the forward stroke. You start with one end of the paddle in the water, down by your toes. Then you pull back so the paddle’s blade ends up near your hip. Next, slightly twist your body forward as you put the other end of the paddle into the water on the opposite side. Soon you’ll get into a rhythm and be moving right along.

The reverse stroke is simply the backwards motion of the forward stroke. Instead of pulling back on the blade, you push the paddle away from your chest so it goes toward your toes. As you back up, just remember to watch where you’re headed so you don’t run into anything.

If you’re trying to move alongside another kayak, then you’ll need to use the draw stroke. This is where you stick a paddle blade in the water and pull yourself over. You’ll want to reach over far enough so both of your hands are hovering over the water in the direction where you want to move. Rotate your body toward the blade and pull to draw your kayak to that side.

Finally, there’s the sweep stroke. This helps you turn your kayak quickly. You just need to make a half-moon or arc shape . To turn forward, put the blade in the front of your kayak and draw a curve in the water towards the back. Moving your body with the paddle makes this easier. To go backward, just start with your paddle in the back of the boat, then draw your arc toward your toes in the front.

Practice those four types of strokes, and you’ll quickly build your confidence on the water. You can also check the diagrams for these kayak stroke patterns to get a better idea of how to use your paddle.

Kayak Safety Tips and Reminders

Whether you’re planning to rent kayaks for the day or you’re ready to invest in some kayaks to keep, brushing up on a few of the basics is a smart move. This article’s kayak buying guide can be a helpful resource as you sort through your options. Once you have your gear collected, you might be ready to get a kayak launch of your own. When you waterfront has a kayak launch, your transition from the dock to the water can go much smoother and safer. Being able to carefully enter and exit your kayak puts you in a better position to enjoy your time on the water.

It’s also important to wear a personal flotation device whenever you’re enjoying a watersport. Grab some sunscreen and snacks, and you should have a nice time with some good weather. Stick to areas that match your skill level, and have fun on the water!

Boat Lifts

About the ShoreStation Revolution Series Canopy

Leave a comment

ShoreStation boat lifts come with plenty of great features for boating enthusiasts. The Revolution Series Canopy is just the latest addition to their lineup of boat lift covers. It offers an even better way to protect your watercraft.

Benefits of Boat Lift Covers

Most of us are familiar with the benefits of having a boat lift. They help keep your boat clean and protected while you’re away. The bottom of your boat stays cleaner longer, and you’ll prevent troublesome issues like hull blisters with dry storage.

But what about boat lift covers? These aren’t just for decoration. Like the lift itself, boat lift covers work to give your watercraft an extra line of defense against the elements. It also helps your boat lift mechanics. Installing a good cover stops grime from building up in your drive components. That way, you can limit your maintenance needs and enjoy more time on the water.

Revolution Series Canopy Features

The newest collection of boat lift covers from ShoreStation have a unique roll-up design. As the name suggests, the Revolution Series Canopy has a traditional canopy style when fully set up. But its big selling point is the “roll and store” feature. This makes it easy to stash the cover away during the off-season. You don’t have to remove the canopy—it just rolls up for storage on the frame.

There’s a gear wrench to work the rolling cover and storage, while the canopy can be raised and lowered just with the push of a button. This gives you a safe and convenient to enter your boat. The system also includes a deep 20” rigid frame for total protection.

You get a wide selection of customizable options with this line of boat lift covers, too. The vinyl-coated polyester fabric comes with a handful of different color choices. Each one has a waterproof textured matte finish. This helps make the cover super durable. These boat lift covers have the look of fabric, but the long-lasting strength of vinyl.

Ready for a Waterfront Upgrade?

We like working with ShoreStation products because they’ve been in the business since 1959. Their impressive track record and quality construction help make them a big hitter in the waterfront industry. And because they make all types of boat lifts, you can find the one that best meets your budget and needs. Choose from a selection of manual drive boat lifts, or go big with a hydraulic boat lift. Then we’ll help you install it!

Our team at Deaton’s Waterfront Services is skilled in all things waterfront. Looking to get the first boat lift for your site? Already tried out different models? We’ll help you get set up with something great. Send us a message or call (317) 747-4933 to start your consultation. We’d be happy to help you out.

Commercial Docks, Ez Dock

Commercial Dock Design Concerns and Insight

Leave a comment

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!

Boat Lifts

Common Boat Lift Problems and Solutions

Leave a comment

As we get deeper into the fall season, many boat owners are getting ready to take a closer look at how their boat lift has been performing. Taking care of any boat lift repair issues before the winter hits can help ensure that your equipment will last through the freezing temperatures. Don’t let these problems keep you from getting on the water next year!

1. Boat Lift Cables

Any indications of rust or fraying on your boat lift cables will require immediate attention. These are sure signs that your cables are ready for replacement. Some manufacturers recommend that you change your cables after a couple years of use—even if they aren’t yet showing signs of wear. In general, this rule of thumb remains: it’s better to be safe than sorry. To help improve the use of your cables, consider applying a penetrating oil. This will help reduce abrasive wear on your cable strands and protect against other boat lift repair problems related to corrosion.

2. Drifting Boat Lift Platform

Some boat lifts have problems where the platform drifts down. This can happen for a few different reasons in hydraulic boat lifts. Usually, the first thing to try is to cycle your boat lift up and down to remove any air in the system. You will also want to check the oil in the reservoir. There may be contamination in the oil or the oil level might just be too low. For more serious boat lift repair issues, you may need to contact your boat lift dealer. They can help determine whether your oil has been seeping past the lift cylinder. If that’s the case, then your lift tube or control valves will also need to be checked.

3. Boat Lift Making Noise

If your boat lift is making noise as you operate it, you may just be dealing with some un-greased gears. A monthly inspection will help keep them running like they should. (During that time, you can also make sure the belts aren’t loose or fraying.) Otherwise, a noisy boat lift could be the result of air in the system. This can create a squealing noise from the pump as your boat lift runs. To correct this, simply raise and lower the platform a few times without any load. This should get rid of any trapped air. When that isn’t enough to fix the sound, you may need to contact your dealer for other repairs.

4. Electrical Boat Lift Wiring

Problems with your boat lift electrical wiring can be more complicated. The motor and controls can run into a number of issues that keep your boat lift from functioning correctly. Sometimes, the solution can be found in increasing the voltage to the pump. You might notice this when the boat lift rises slowly. If your boat lift is rising too high, though, you may have problems with the circuit controls. Corrosion is a regular concern for electrical wiring. In order to make these repairs safely, you may need to contact a professional electrician. But contacting your boat lift dealer first can help you assess the situation.

Need Help with Boat Lift Repair?

Checking your bumps for any wear and tear and making sure you don’t have any loose brackets will also help your boat lift last. Other maintenance and repairs, however, can require some professional assistance. As an authorized dealer for ShoreStation, Poly Lift, and Sunstream boat lifts, Deaton’s Waterfront Services is here to help when you run into any problems.

If you can’t figure out why your boat lift is acting up, just contact our crew. We might be able to assess the situation over a video call with you. Otherwise, we’ll plan a time to come out to your site. Taking care of boat lift problems early can prevent a real boating catastrophe. Don’t get caught in a boat lift emergency. Call Deaton’s Waterfront Services at (317) 747-4933 to keep your equipment operating smoothly.

Dock Design, Dock Material

Pros and Cons of a Stationary Dock vs. Floating Dock

Leave a comment

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!

Ez Dock

Connecting to Nature with Custom EZ Trail Systems

Leave a comment

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!

Deaton's Waterfront Services News, Dock Design

How We Work: Deaton’s Waterfront Services

Leave a comment

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

Leave a comment

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!

Deaton's Waterfront Services News, Dock Design

Why to Plan Your Waterfront Projects in Winter

Leave a comment

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!