How much does a new boat dock cost?
One of the most often asked question and the most difficult to answer. Here’s why.
For most home owners, building a new dock is an important project, after all you purchased lakefront property to enjoy easy-access to the lake and incredible views. Your new dock should involve careful planning and thoughtful design before an estimate can commence. You will have to make choices, such as the kind of dock, size, materials, and budget. A few other cost considerations like permits, demolition of your old dock, engineered drawings (if required) and a lighting and electrical plan must also be factored into your budget. There are variables associated with almost all these items.
For many waterfront homes, the addition of a dock is a great way to boost home value. It provides a calm and relaxing environment and makes it much easier to enjoy activities like fishing and boating. As installation of a dock is often a costly project, it is better to hire a professional contractor that can guide you through each of these decisions.
Dock Costs
The expenses involved in having us construct a dock in over the past few years on Lake Wylie ranged from $25,000 to well over $100,000. If we remove the six 100k+ docks built last year the average cost ranged between $35,000 and $55,000.
Dock Cost Variables
The costs to construct a new dock depend on a broad variety of factors; these are discussed below.
Type of Dock
The cost will depend on the type of dock you want to build. Fixed docks on pilings versus all floating all have quite different methods of construction, materials, labor and other costs. Hiring an experienced professional contractor is a smart idea as she or he would know the type of dock that is right for your needs.
Decking
The kind of decking used on the dock’s surface is a significant component of the total price. Pine decking, for instance is substantially more economical compared to synthetic wood decking.
Low-maintenance
There are several upgrades to the handrail, skirt boards, fascia metal and other material that adds long term value but cost more up front.
Configuration and Size
A large dock will need more materials and take more time to assemble. Costs will increase with the complexity of dock configurations. For instance, a double-slip dock that can accommodate a couple boats and boats an upper deck is more complex than a straight configuration designed for one boat.
Electrical Work
Running electricity for boat lift is often one item that is not considered. In 2017 we designed and installed lighting and electrical packages on 90% of the docks we built. If new power needs to be brought down from the house to power a boat lift, the costs start around 5k and go up from there depending on the other lighting and stylish features you choose. We install ceiling fans, underwater lights, low-voltage LED lights, fishing lights, task lighting, TV and Internet etc. etc. See the photo gallery in the lighting and electrical section of our website.
Permits
You’ll need building permits for your dock.
Permit requirements and costs vary between counties; therefore, it is important to consult with the relevant zoning office before the commencement of any type of structur