Keeping Your Boat Securely Docked: Preventing Unwanted Floating

Keeping a boat afloat is a challenging task, and there are several factors to consider when it comes to preventing it from floating under the dock. Firstly, the weight of the dock is crucial; if it's too heavy, maintaining stability becomes more difficult. The size and shape of the dock also matter, as larger and asymmetrical docks are harder to stabilise. Additionally, strong winds and waves can cause the dock to move around and become unstable. To address these challenges, stabilisers can be used to keep the floating dock in position, regardless of changing water levels. One effective method is to install weights, such as metallic balls or concrete blocks, under the entire length of the docking system. Alternatively, anchoring the floating dock to the shore using metal pillars or treated wood planks can provide stability.

Use weights to secure the dock in position

Weights are an essential component of anchoring your dock and keeping your boat from floating under it. The weight of your anchors will depend on the type of dock you have and the conditions of the body of water it sits in.

For floating docks, it is recommended to use anchoring weights such as metallic balls or concrete blocks. These weights should be installed under the entire length of the docking system, with the option to hang them on the dock's sides or place them at the end that extends into the water. The anchoring weights will hold the docks in position and prevent them from being affected by lateral pressures from waves, wind, and boats. The recommended minimum anchor weight for a typical straight floating dock is 450 lbs at each corner and 300 lbs on each side closer to the shore.

When determining the weight of your anchors, it is important to consider the type of bottom of the body of water. For example, a fluke anchor will penetrate soft mud but will slide over hard sand. Concrete anchors are the most common way to secure a floating dock, with weights ranging from 250 to 3000 pounds. It is also recommended to use a 3/8 galvanized chain to attach the dock to the anchor.

In addition to the weight of the anchors, the depth of the water is also a factor to consider. The depth of the water will determine how much weight the dock can support. If the water is too shallow, the dock may not be able to hold the weight of the anchor. On the other hand, if the water is too deep, the anchor may not reach the bottom and secure the dock properly.

It is also important to note that concrete loses one-third of its weight underwater, so this should be taken into account when determining the necessary weight for your anchors.

Anchor the dock to the shore using treated wood or metal pillars

One of the most important things to consider when anchoring your floating dock is the anchoring system you will use. A dependable anchoring system is necessary to prevent your floating dock from floating away, which can be dangerous and cause damage to property.

One option for anchoring your floating dock is to use treated wood or metal pillars to anchor it to the shore. If you choose to use wood planks, ensure that they are treated so that they do not rot. Metal pillars, on the other hand, should be made of heavy-duty, non-rusting materials to prevent corrosion. The type of material you choose will depend on various factors, including the water depth, weight range, and environmental conditions.

When anchoring your floating dock with treated wood or metal pillars, it is important to consider the weight of the anchors. Ensure that you have enough weight to secure the floating dock, but not so much that it pulls the dock underwater. The placement of the anchors is also crucial, as you want to avoid adding too much tension to the chains or ropes that attach the anchors to the dock.

In addition to the weight and placement of the anchors, the layout of the anchoring system is important. One popular option is the crisscross layout, where chains are placed on both sides of the platform and crossed through each rebar or attached to the opposite corner. Another factor to consider is the length of the chains, as you want to leave enough slack to accommodate fluctuating water levels without causing tension on the chains or the dock.

By following these guidelines and choosing the right type of anchoring system for your specific needs, you can effectively anchor your floating dock to the shore using treated wood or metal pillars, ensuring its safety and stability.

Use pilings (anchor poles) hammered into the lake, sea or riverbed

Pilings are anchor poles that are hammered into the lake, sea, or riverbed to stabilise a floating dock and hold it in position. This method is ideal for areas where water levels fluctuate seasonally.

To use pilings, you will need to bury them deep into the seafloor, and then attach the dock over them. The depth of the water will determine how much weight the dock can support, so it's important to choose the right type of piling for your specific situation. For example, in-situ PVC piles, spun concrete piles, timber piles, and steel piles are all options that can meet financial and environmental requirements.

The weight of the piling must also be considered. If the piling is too heavy, it may pull the floating dock underwater. Conversely, if it is too light, strong water currents can sweep it away.

Piling materials can include metal poles or wood planks. If you choose wood, ensure that you treat the planks to prevent rot. For metal, use heavy-duty, non-rusting poles to prevent corrosion.

In addition, the width of the dock cannot be wider than the width of the pilings. This method of stabilisation is very stable, as the inner and outer tubes of the floating dock are connected to each piling, allowing them to move separately.

Choose the best anchoring system for your dock

To choose the best anchoring system for your dock, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the local climate and potential challenges, such as the water depth, distance from the shore, fluctuations in water level, typical wave and wind forces, and any local regulations or restrictions.

Once you have assessed these factors, you can consider the following anchoring options:

Cable Anchoring

A common and affordable method where ropes or cables are attached to weights or the shore to keep the dock in place. This method is suitable for docks that need to move towards and away from the shoreline and can accommodate changing water levels. Cable anchoring is often used in deep water.

Pole and Sleeve Anchoring

This method is ideal for areas with strong winds and waves. It involves stiff vertical sleeves connected to the dock and long galvanized steel poles that are inserted into the lake bed. A winch and cable system allow for easy pole withdrawal when moving the dock. This system allows the dock to move with changing water levels while keeping it anchored in high winds and waves.

Pile Anchoring

Pile anchoring is recommended for heavy-load docks and is often used in locations with strong waves. This system uses piles or posts made of steel, wood, concrete, or fiberglass, driven into the seabed to secure the dock. While pile anchoring is durable, it is more complex and costly to install.

Stiff Arm Anchoring

Stiff arm anchoring is a reliable and strong method that uses braces or stiff, angled arms extending from the dock structure to the shoreline or seabed. This type of anchoring provides stability and reduces the dock's movement, making it suitable for areas with fluctuating water levels or exposed locations.

Combination Systems

In some cases, a combination of anchoring systems may be necessary to provide the required stability for the floating dock.

It is important to consider specific needs, such as water conditions, dock size, and budget, when choosing an anchoring system. Consulting local authorities or experts in the field can also help determine the best option for your waterfront location.

Consider the water depth and fluctuation

When installing a floating dock, it is important to consider the water depth and fluctuation. This is because the depth of the water will determine how much weight the dock can support. If the water is too shallow, the dock may not be able to hold the weight of the anchor.

Before installing a floating dock, it is advisable to measure the water level at maximum high tide and maximum low tide. This will ensure that the water stays as far below the dock as possible. If the water level at your chosen location fluctuates significantly, pilings can be used to stabilise the dock. Pilings are anchor poles hammered into the lake, sea, or riverbed to hold the floating dock in position. They are ideal for locations with fluctuating water levels.

The weight of the anchor will also depend on the depth of the water. In shallow water, a lighter anchor can be used, whereas in deep water, a heavier anchor is required due to increased water pressure. If the water is too deep, the anchor may not reach the bottom, and so the dock may require additional support.

The type of bottom surface will also affect the anchoring system. For example, a fluke anchor will penetrate soft mud but will slide over hard sand.

It is important to consult a professional when choosing an anchoring system for your floating dock to ensure that it is suitable for the specific water depth and fluctuation at your chosen location.

Frequently asked questions