Buy A: Dock

The "skin" of your dock determines its lifespan and upkeep requirements:

Very durable; expensive and often restricted due to environmental impact. 3. Material Selection & Maintenance

Adaptable and easy to install; can be wobbly in rough water. $20 – $40 Heavy boat traffic, tidal areas buy a dock

Protect your vessel from hull damage; costs range from $1,000 to $20,000 .

Verify your legal right to build in the "riparian area" adjacent to your property. The "skin" of your dock determines its lifespan

Most permanent structures require permits from agencies like the Army Corps of Engineers or local wetlands boards.

A rocky bottom might require a roll-in or pipe dock , whereas a soft bottom is better for pilings driven deep into the ground. 2. Choosing a Dock Type Cost Per Sq. Ft. Best Use Case Floating $15 – $35 Fluctuating water levels, deep water $20 – $40 Heavy boat traffic, tidal areas

The most affordable ($5–$8/sq. ft.) but requires annual staining and sealing to prevent rot and splinters.