Choosing a Dock Pipe Length

Installing a dock requires a fair amount of precision, yet knowing that water levels can fluctuate means you must also account for variation. Here are some tips for choosing the correct pipe length for your custom dock.

General Rule: Water Depth Plus 3′ Minimum

As you begin assembling your dock, you’ll want the pipe length to be at least the length of the water depth plus a minimum of three feet. Pipe legs come in a variety of lengths and will be secured in your pipe base. You’ll also need to mount the pipe to other corresponding dock hardware and pipe corner brackets to complete the frame assembly.

All the hardware you need for your pipe leg dock can be found here. The number of legs you’ll need will depend on the size of each dock section. Bigger docks require more legs.

How to Install a Pipe Leg Dock

Once you know the appropriate pipe length for your dock and have the corresponding dock hardware, it’s time to install. Start with the pipe base.

The base should be set about a foot above the bottom of the pipe. For rocky lake bottoms, we recommend cutting the pipe at a 45-degree angle so the pipe itself is situated into the rocks. A pipe auger can be used when the subsoil is full of vegetation and organic matter.

Next, pound your pipes into the sand using a driving cap. To adjust the height and levelness of your dock, you can use a pipe chain jack. Once level, secure the screws in the corner sockets in place. If you have additional dock sections and ramps, you can use side brackets to connect them.

For help designing and assembling your pipe dock, our team at RDS Dock Hardware is here to help. Get in touch with us today to ask your questions about selecting the right design, hardware and accessories for your dock.