How Hard is it to DIY Your Dock Installation?

Planning and design is one part of creating a custom dock. Then there’s installation. Working in water poses unique challenges and requires some specialty skills and tools, but if you are prepared and have the know-how to do it, it can be a DIY task. Here are some factors to consider before deciding whether to take on a new dock installation yourself.

Cost vs. Convenience

Choosing to take on your dock installation project yourself is cheaper than hiring a professional, but the tradeoff is time. Professionals are experienced and are likely able to complete the installation much faster than if you were to do it yourself. The quality of work might also be superior to what you can do.

Factors that can affect the timeline of a dock construction project include:

• The type of dock – is it a pipe dock, floating dock, fixed, or another construction type?
• The size of the dock
• The location of the dock
• The build’s complexity
• The installer’s skills and experience

Bigger or more complex builds take longer to construct. So, too, do docks built on shoreline properties that can be difficult to access. Fixed docks generally take longer to install than floating docks, and there are other considerations as well, such as if you are going the DIY route.

On the whole, most dock construction projects can be completed within four to six weeks. Before starting on your dock project, you should be sure to check state and local permitting requirements, as your dock construction could be delayed if you don’t have the necessary approvals.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

While I don’t think anyone would call installing a dock “easy,” those who have done it before or completed similar tasks will agree that it’s possible to have DIY success. But being prepared is paramount. Custom dock installation is a big, labor-intensive job. You’ll likely need at least one other person to help with the work.

If you have limited experience with building projects or limited time to do the installation yourself, it may be worth the extra money to hire a professional. Not only will they do a high-quality job that will ensure your dock lasts as long as possible, but hiring out the installation can also save you time and energy.

At RDS Dock Hardware, we offer a la carte dock design and installation options to fit your needs and preferences. You can choose from the following options:

• DIY – You pick up and install your dock system.
• DIY with help – We bring (or ship) the dock and dock hardware; you bring the installer.
• DIFM (Do It for Me) – We bring the dock, hardware, and installer. RDS partners with many dock builders and installers around the country. Our partners have years of experience and can help you determine what you need based on local laws, water structure, and any existing docking you have.

To learn more, contact us today.