Design Considerations for Commercial Docks

Every company has a vision, and if yours is one of the many with a need for a commercial dock, designing the ideal space is nothing short of a must.

Commercial boat docks require more planning and forethought than residential docks, and commercial dock installation is no easy feat. So instead, design considerations abound here.

You want your dock to reflect the goals of your company and the needs of your vendors and customers, and knowing what to think about in terms of design is a big step in the right direction to creating the ideal commercial dock to meet your company’s needs. 

Dock Design Begins in the Conference Room

Before selecting a provider, think about materials, or even consider your space, the entire dock design process should begin in your conference room.

There’s much to consider here before you move forward. Think of the various functions you need your dock to serve. Will customer boats be docking in this space?

Will you be accepting deliveries from your dock? How often will employees or customers be on the dock?

How many boats do you need space for at one time? Then, sit down with your team and brainstorm what you want from your dock before you even begin to design.

After all, there is much to consider – understanding precisely what you want from the outset means a better product overall. 

Take a Closer Look at the Water

The water itself may dictate the actual dock design. Your dock’s stability means understanding the general characteristics of the water and the ground conditions underneath it.

If the water level rises and falls drastically, as it might if you face the tides each day, that’s something you need to consider.

If the surface conditions of the water get rough thanks to heavy storms or excessive boat traffic, that is also a consideration you’ll need to make.

Think, too, about the ground under the water. Knowing what anchoring and piling components are possible in that space is a must before you design. 

Start Thinking About Shape

Traditional commercial docks are typically one long, continuous piece, jutting out into the water. Today, though, there are so many different materials choices and building styles that you can have almost any shape you want.

You have the flexibility to create a design that’s as unique as your company. Some options even offer you the ability to change the configuration at a later date.

A straight dock is certainly possible, but it may not be the best use of your options, depending a bit on your company’s needs. You can also create a T-shaped dock, offering you an area that’s longer and wider out over the water.

This is particularly helpful if you plan to have customers on your dock who want a bit of added surface area. An L-shaped dock is probably the most popular layout for commercial customers, as it offers plenty of usable area for many different kinds of businesses.

U-shaped docks are best if you have multiple hoists and you need a space to park several different vessels at once. 

Consider The Decking Materials

Once you’ve thought about how you plan to use the dock, the water around it, and the shape, it’s time to start thinking about construction materials.

You’ll want something that can withstand the day-to-day traffic you intend to get it as well as a material that offers lower levels of maintenance.

You can typically get commercial docks in wood, aluminum, and PVC, as well as a few other options, so make sure you look at the features of each to decide which might be the best option for your company. 

Find the Right Team

The final step is to find the right team to help you review your plans and decisions and then create and install your dock. To learn more about how we can help, contact us today.