Eco-Friendly Dock Construction Materials
Sustainable dock design is a priority for many waterfront property owners, yet it can be challenging to know the best ways to approach a custom construction. Below, we’ll offer some tips for designing and building a sustainable dock so you can do your part to protect your environmental surroundings.
Get to Know Your Shoreline
Building a sustainable dock begins with careful planning. Consider these and other factors unique to your property as you begin designing your custom dock.
- Learn local regulations and/or permit requirements: Some, but not all, locales may require permits for dock construction. If there are restrictions, environmental or otherwise, it’s essential to know about them before construction.
- Get to know your ecosystem: Learn about your waterfront environment, including the presence of wetlands, wildlife habitats or protected species.
- Enlist an expert: Consult with local environmental experts and custom dock design companies who are experienced with sustainability best practices and can help you make informed decisions while planning your dock project.
Choose the Right Dock Materials for Sustainability
Building a sustainable dock means choosing materials that are durable, environmentally friendly and have a minimal ecological footprint. Examples may include opting for responsibly sourced wood, alternative materials like composite decking or recyclable materials like aluminum. You should also avoid chemically treated wood that could leach harmful substances into the water.
Another important part of sustainability best practices is taking care of what you have. By choosing high-quality dock hardware materials and keeping up with required maintenance needs, you can install a custom dock that will last years and years to come.
As you consider what steps you can take to build a more sustainable dock for your shoreline property, don’t hesitate to ask us your questions. At RDS Dock Hardware, we’ve been creating long-lasting dock systems in the US since 1986. Contact us today or fill out our free custom dock quote form to learn more about how we can help.
