Dock Hardware: Essentials You’ll Need to Build a Dock

Do you want to install a boat dock but don’t know where to begin? Then we’re here to help.You first need to apply for a dock permit and gather all the specific dock hardware that you will need.

Keep reading to explore the boat dock hardware needed when constructing a new dock or repairing an existing dock.

Hardware Needed to Build a Dock

The required hardware to build a dock varies depending on the type of dock you want to build.

First, we’ll cover some essential boat dock hardware for any dock. This includes stationary and floating docks.

Then, we’ll discuss some specifics for wooden, floating, and aluminum docks.

Stationary Post Dock Brackets or Floating Dock Brackets

Brackets project from or overhang a surface to carry weight and are crucial pieces of hardware for any dock. But you’ll need to decide if you’ll build a floating or stationary dock before buying the brackets.

This is because stationary docks sit on top of pilings mounted into the seafloor or lake bottom while floating docks sit on the water’s surface. Since the construction of these docks differs, you need specific brackets to distribute and hold the weight of each one correctly.

Galvanized and Stainless Steel Bolts, Nuts & Washers

To secure all the dock materials, you’ll need galvanized or stainless steel fasteners, including:

• Bolts
• Cleats
• Connectors
• Nuts
• Screws
• Washers
• Washer plates

Galvanized steel is vital for securing your dock frame because it’s coated with a thin layer of zinc. The zinc protects the steel from rust and degradation from weather elements.

However, marine dock hardware for a saltwater dock needs to be stainless steel. Stainless steel holds up much better to saltwater exposure than galvanized steel.

Piling, Dock Pipes, and Dock Pipe Pullers

Stationary docks require dock piling or pipes to secure the dock to the seafloor. For pipes, you’ll use an auger to drill a hole into the ground for each pipe. Piling is “driven” or washed in, depending on the bedding or available equipment.

Then, you’ll use a bracket, or pipe holder, to secure the pipe to the dock frame.

The dock pipe puller (or remover) is necessary to pull out the dock anchoring pipe from the bottom of the seabed, lake, or river. This is especially important when removing the dock in the fall before the water freezes.

Pipe Driving Cap

The pipe driving cap protects the top of the pipe when driving it into the seabed or lake bottom. So even though the auger helps create a hole, you still need to use force to get the pipe securely into the ground.

The pipe driving cap also has a hole you can use to tie a retrieving rope. This ensures you don’t lose the cap should it come off while hammering.

Count how many pipes you have going into the water to determine how many pipe driving caps are needed. Of course, it never hurts to buy a few extra.

Dock Wheel Mounting Kit for Movable Docks

For those installing a dock system in a river or lake that freezes in winter, you must have a dock wheel mounting kit to remove the dock from the water easily.

Using the kit, you can quickly raise and lower the dock with a screw mechanism. The included jacks allow you to roll out your dock and other marine products effortlessly.

The wheels have weep holes that fill with water and help anchor the dock in place. These kits are ideal for hard bottom lake and river environments but not muddy ones.

Dock Leveling Kit

Included in your tools to build a dock will be a dock leveling kit, also called a winch dock kit.

A winch leveling kit allows you to adjust the height of your dock without entering the water. Should the water level rise or fall from different weather conditions, you can appropriately adjust your dock’s level with ease.

Wooden Boat Dock Hardware

Wooden docks are becoming more trendy. They are easy to build and look gorgeous on the water.

You can find different styles of wood to fit any aesthetic. Heavy wood dock hardware can withstand the harsh marine environment.

Residential wood dock hardware is light and excellent for areas with low wind and current. It’s still durable but easier to install.

Floating Boat Dock Hardware

Floating docks require a unique set of dock parts since they aren’t anchored into the ground.

For those who want a simple dock project, modular floating docks are an excellent choice. You can customize your modular floating dock by reorganizing the dock sections.

This will also bring down the cost of a floating dock, so it fits within your budget.

Although floating docks are durable, they aren’t as sturdy as stationary docks.

Aluminum Boat Dock Hardware

Aluminum docks continue to grow in popularity because they are:

• Easy to install
• Durable
• Resistant to damage from UV rays
• Rust proof
• Available with removable features

Aluminum docks are available in DIY kits. In addition, many recreational docks, such as marina docks and swim floats, are made of aluminum docks rather than wood.

Due to its durability, you may want to install dock bumpers on the dock edges to prevent damage to boats and other water vehicles while docking.

Dock Hardware Experts

Before embarking on your dock project, plan your ideal dock carefully.  From there, you can collect all of the necessary dock hardware.

If you still have questions about the dock building process, we’re here to help. Contact us at Decks & Docks Lumber Co., and we’ll guide you through the dock building process. From helping with the construction to picking out dock ladders, ramps, or dock floats, we’re the experts you need to call.