What is the best wood to use for a boat dock?

The best wood boards for docks are western red cedar, redwood, cypress and eastern white cedar. However, if the dock will feature permanent piles or cribs, then you are going to want a stronger hardwood, such as Douglas fir, tamarack and hemlock. Certain other woods may suffice in a pinch, but those are preferred.

How deep should dock posts be buried?

By marking them with spray paint, it will be easier to make sure your pilings are all installed at the same depth. Burying the piling 4–6 ft (1.2–1.8 m) into the ground should give you a tight, secure fit.

What can I use for dock posts?

Pressure treated wood is the most cost effective to use as posts for your dock. Most professional dock builders believe that round posts are much easier to install and last longer because the wood isn’t cut off.

What is the cheapest dock?

A floating dock costs $15 to $35 per square foot, depending on the type of decking. The price includes both the dock and labor. Prefabricated aluminum (the most affordable type) costs $1,500. It’s constructed by placing decking over airtight barrels, drums, or marine floats.

How much weight can a 55 gallon drum float?

450lbs. Water weighs 8 pounds per gallon. 55 gallon barrel will theoretically displace 55 gallons of water. 8 x 55 = 440 pounds.

Is pressure treated wood safe for docks?

EPA, along with the U.S. Department of Human Services recommends that “treated wood should not be used where it may come in direct or indirect contact with public drinking water, except for uses involving incidental contact such as docks and bridges.” However, NHDES advises against using pressure- treated wood in any …

How long will pressure treated wood last on a dock?

Whether for framing only or the decking too, pressure treated lumber lasts a long time. Pressure treated lumber exposed to freeze-thaw and wet-dry cycles without care or maintenance will last about 9-years. With proper maintenance and treatment, the same deck will last 40 plus years.

How do I set dock posts in water?

Pour 10 in (25 cm) of concrete into the pipe, then insert the post. Lower the post into the PVC pipe and push it down into the concrete. By pouring concrete into the pipe first, the post will be more stable when you put it into place. The PVC pipe will keep the water out of the concrete as it cures.

How far apart should dock pilings be?

10 feet
Pile driving is the preferred method of installation, but jetting with a low pressure pump may be used. 8. The spacing of pilings through SAV beds shall be a minimum of 10 feet on center.