There are many advantages to having your own boat dock. Without having a slip, you may spend more time getting your boat in and out of the water than out having fun on the water.
In addition, if you have your own berth, you can save a bundle on boat storage fees. Storage fees alone will often run $200 or more per month. And if you have an electrical hook-up or other amenities, plan on a minimum of $250.
And if you happen to have a home on the water, putting up a boat slip will certainly improve the value of the property and attract more buyers is you sell.
Finally, if you don’t have to wait in line to launch, and your guests can park on your property, it just makes boating that more convenient.
Types of boat docks
According to WaterFront Gurus there are 4 main types of docks:
- Floating Slips
A floating slip is generally a pontoon type deck, often made of empty barrels with a wooden deck on top.
Some of the most popular slips, they are relatively easy to construct and can be quite cost-effective. - Crib Slips
Imagine a wooden structure similar to few wooden crates, that sit in the bottom of the lake near the shore, with wooden beams coming out of the water, to have the deck constructed off out of the water, and you have a crib slip. - Post Slips
Basically posts going from the bottom of the water to above water, wood or plastic docklike structure is built around the posts. - Pipe Slips
Metal pipes with feet are driven into the ground, then a deck is built on top above water.
Be within regulations
Many areas such as Orange County Florida have specific regulations that need to be followed. Before building, check local requirements.
Dock construction
Dock construction plans are everywhere, but a company such as Decks & Docks Lumber Company, which specializes in providing hardware for your slip can offer you the most choices. So Be sure to check out Decks & Docks Lumber Company.
How much should I plan on spending
You can sometimes buy prefabricated slips for $1,000 but most people prefer to build their own berth according to their needs.
Most homeowners pay between $2,000 to $5,000 for a good quality boat slip.
A floating slip is often the cheapest, running around $20 per square foot. Piling slops are more permanent, and will run up to $40 per square feet.
A pipe slip is more expensive, and you should plan on spending a little more, although prefabricated ones can be found. Plan on budgeting around $3,000.
Crib slips, which are like small little islands, can also be expensive and depending upon local regulations, may not even be allowed because of environmental concerns.