Boat Dock Builder Selection Guide: Questions That Reveal Experience

Selecting a dock builder is about more than just comparing quotes. It’s about finding an expert who understands the unique physics of your specific waterway. To separate the veterans from the novices, you need to ask targeted, technical questions that go beyond the surface.

Question 1: “How do you calculate the embedment depth of the piles?”

An experienced dock builder won’t give a generic answer like “we go down five feet.” They should explain how they account for “scour.” Scour is the erosion of the seabed caused by water currents around the base of the pile. If a builder doesn’t go deep enough, the scour will eventually leave the pile “hanging,” causing the dock to lean. They should be able to explain how they determine “refusal”, the point where the pile is firmly seated in the load-bearing strata of the earth.

Question 2: “What is your strategy for storm surge and uplift protection?”

In a major storm, the primary threat to a dock isn’t just the wind; it’s the uplift created by rising water and waves hitting the underside of the deck boards.

• Ask if they use hurricane straps or heavy-duty bolts to secure the stringers to the piles.
• Inquire about “blow-out” panels. These are sections of the deck designed to pop off during a surge, allowing water to pass through rather than lifting the entire heavy structure off its foundations.

Question 3: “Can you provide a portfolio of docks built 5 to 10 years ago?”

Anyone can make a dock look pristine on day one. The true test of a dock builder is how their work survives the “test of time.” Ask for the addresses of older projects. When you visit these sites, look for:

• Leveling: Is the roofline of the boat house still perfectly straight?
• Hardware Integrity: Is there “bleeding” or rust stains coming from the bolts?
• Decking Condition: Are the boards cupping, warping, or popping up? A builder who is proud of their decade-old work is a builder you can trust.

Question 4: “Which decking materials do you recommend for my dock’s orientation?”

The sun is the greatest enemy of a dock. A dock facing south will bake in UV rays all day, while a north-facing dock may stay damp and grow algae. A seasoned dock builder will recommend materials based on these factors. For example, they might suggest Composite or PVC for high-sun areas because it won’t splinter, or Ipe (Brazilian Walnut) for its natural resistance to rot in shaded, damp environments. If they only offer one type of wood, they may lack experience with modern material science.

Question 5: “What is your process for managing the ‘Permit Trail’?”

The permitting process for a dock builder involves multiple agencies: the local building department, the State Department of Environmental Protection, and often the Army Corps of Engineers. Ask if they have an in-house permitting specialist. If they expect you to navigate the Army Corps of Engineers on your own, you are likely in for a frustrating and confusing experience. A true professional handles the “red tape” as part of their service.

Question 6: “How do you handle ‘Electrolysis’ and metal corrosion?”

If you are adding a boat lift, you are introducing electricity and different types of metal to the water. This can lead to galvanic corrosion (electrolysis), which eats away at your boat’s hull and the dock’s hardware. A knowledgeable builder will discuss “sacrificial anodes” (zincs) and proper grounding techniques to ensure your dock doesn’t become a giant battery that destroys your boat.

Conclusion: Knowledge is the Best Foundation

Building a dock is a significant financial commitment, and the person you choose to lead the project will be responsible for the safety of your family and the security of your vessel. As this guide suggests, the best dock builder for your project is the one who can answer technical questions with clarity and provide a proven track record of success in your specific environment. Experience in the marine industry is measured not just in years, but in the ability to adapt to the unique challenges of tides, soil, and weather.

By asking these six critical questions, you move beyond the “sales pitch” and get to the heart of a contractor’s professional philosophy. Don’t be afraid to dig deep into the details of uplift protection, material science, and permitting. A true expert will appreciate your diligence and will be happy to demonstrate their expertise. In the end, the right builder won’t just build you a dock, they will build you a structure that stands as a testament to quality craftsmanship and thoughtful engineering.