How Do You Attach a Ramp to a Floating Dock?

Connecting a ramp or gangway to your floating dock is a relatively simple DIY project as long as you have the correct dock hardware and tools. As always, take appropriate safety measures and enlist help when needed.

When You Might Need a Dock Ramp

The makeup of your shoreline generally determines whether or not you need a dock ramp, and if so, how long it needs to be. For example, if the water depth near the shore is too shallow to support a floating dock, you may need a longer gangway to access the dock.

Additionally, dock ramps can also make docks more accessible to all users, including those with disabilities.

As with all water structures, dock ramps must also be secured to the shore or seafloor to ensure dock safetyand stability.

How to Connect Your Ramp and Dock

To connect your ramp and dock, you’ll need some dock hardware.  Use a Floating Dock Connector (FDH029)or a Slotted Floating Dock Connector (FDH040). to connect your ramp to the dock. These floating dock connectors can be used on any shape or size floating dock.

Once connected, you’ll also need to anchor your floating dock and ramp to stabilize them and prevent the dock from floating away or washing ashore. Tying down your dock in deeper water will be a little different than what you need to do closer to shore. In deeper water, an effective method to implement is the crisscross method to anchor your floating dock. On shore, you may anchor it to a bulkhead or rest it on the sand, cinder blocks or wood beams.

Contact Us With All Your Custom Dock and Hardware Questions

At RDS Dock Hardware, we offer custom dock solutions, hardware and accessories for all types of shoreline conditions. Get in touch with us to ask your questions or fill out our custom dock design quote form to get started today.