How do I Convert to Floating Docks?

Existing boat docks can be converted to flaoting docks.

Docks used on a lake or river are secured to the ground or float with the use of an anchor. The length of a dock can vary, but a typical size is 14 feet long by 3 feet wide. Construction of the dock is made from pressure treated wood, which is wood that does not rot. Depending on the length of floating dock that is needed, you may need to build a new dock.

Things You'll Need

• Adjustable wrench
• Buoyancy billets
• Wire mesh
• Staple gun
• 14 foot 2-by-6 boards
• Tape measure
• Circular saw
• Galvanized screws
• Corner brackets
• Power drill

Instructions

Using Existing Docks

1. Remove the bolts that are used to secure the dock to the pilings with the adjustable wrench.

2. Lift the dock off of the pilings and place it on the ground upside down. Go back and remove the pilings from the water as they will no longer be used.

3. Insert the buoyancy billets into the underside of the dock. These are used to keep the dock afloat.

4. Attach a wire mesh to the bottom of the dock with staples using the staple gun, to keep the buoyancy billets in place.

5. Set the dock back in the water and secure it to the deck or ground at the edge of the water.

Build New Dock

1. Measure the end of one 2-by-6 board to 3 feet and make a mark with the pencil. Cut the board to this length with the circular saw. Repeat this step to cut another 3 foot section of board.

2. Place two 14 foot 2-by-6 boards on the each end of a 3-foot section of 2-by-6. Secure the boards with galvanized screws using the power drill. Drive four screws on each side of the 3-foot board.

3. Secure the other 3-foot section of board on the opposite end of the 14-foot boards. This will create the frame for the dock.

4. Set a corner bracket in one corner of the frame and attach it to the 2-by-6 boards with the power drill. Repeat this step for the other three corners.

5. Multiply 14 feet by 12 to calculate the length of the dock in inches. Divide the result by six to calculate the number of planks or cross ties for the dock.

6. Measure and cut 28 planks or cross ties from the 14 foot 2-by-6 boards.

7. Set the planks on top of the frame and secure them with the galvanized screws. Leave a ¼-inch gap between the planks for expansion. Drive three screws into each plank with the power drill.

8. Turn the dock over and place buoyancy billets into the bottom of the dock.

Tips & Warnings

• The dock will measure 168 inches and will require 28 planks or cross ties.

• Galvanized screws do not rust.

• Cut the buoyancy billets to the required thickness, if necessary.

References

• Boatbuilding: How to make a boat dock
• Dockbuilders: Do It Yourself Floating Dock

Resources

• Marinefoam: Buoyancy Billets