A deck or dock is one of the best ways to add value to your property. Home buyers love houses with well-maintained landscaping and waterfront views. A private dock allows homeowners to enjoy gorgeous waterfront views at any time of day. It is also the perfect spot to enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning or a drink at sunset.
They Add Utility
Whether a simple dock to moor your boat or a more sophisticated space, a well-designed and -maintained deck or dock can boost your property value; reputable decks and docks West Palm Beach professionals can help you choose materials resistant to mold, mildew, and harsh weather conditions.
In addition, a quality dock should include access stairs or ladders to get into the water. Climbing over the side of a dock can cause falls into the water and splinters for swimmers, so a staircase is a much safer option.
Finally, a good dock should have power pedestals to plug in your electronics and lighting. Modern power pedestals are designed to resist corrosion, rust, and wear and tear from the sun and can accommodate up to 480 amps of electricity.
They Increase Property Value
A dock allows you and your family to keep your boat secured at home instead of bringing it in and out of the water every time you go for a cruise. This increases your peace of mind with your boat and eliminates monthly or seasonal storage fees. When constructing a dock, using high-quality materials that will last is important. This ensures that your investment will be worthwhile when it comes time to sell your property. Choose a deck and dock material that matches your property’s architecture and waterfront characteristics. For example, a wheel-in dock is perfect for properties with firm, sandy, or gravel bottoms. Fiberglass pilings are also a great choice, as they are known to last decades with minimal deterioration.
They Enhance Waterfront Spaces
A dock extends a waterfront property’s living space by enhancing its ambiance, creating social spaces, and providing convenience for many water-related activities. A private pier allows homeowners to avoid the hassle of transporting their boats and watercraft to public piers, reducing transportation costs and boosting overall home value.
A well-designed dock offers a range of uses throughout the day and into the evening. A dock can be a captivating entertainment hub featuring seating for comfortable relaxing and dining areas for entertaining guests. Integrating games such as cornhole and horseshoes promotes community engagement and encourages conversation among family members and friends.
In addition, a private dock allows families to keep their boats secured on their property rather than paying for monthly or seasonal storage fees. The longevity and beauty of a pier depend on the quality of its construction, including a strong foundation constructed from driven pilings.
They Promote Entertainment
A dock allows homeowners to entertain more frequently without needing to travel to a public marina and deal with crowds. This also promotes water recreation, which improves cardiovascular health.
Consider adding outdoor furniture to create cozy hangout spaces for lounging and socializing. Durable dock benches are ideal for seating areas that can be easily reconfigured to accommodate guests’ needs. Add chairs with removable cushions and sofas to create relaxing lounge areas. A dock hammock offers a calm space for sunbathing that doubles as an attractive centerpiece.
Incorporate dock storage options to organize and protect items like towels, life jackets and watersport equipment. Aside from reducing clutter and potential hazards, this also eliminates the need for people to carry items around the dock and back to their vehicles.
They Reduce Maintenance Costs
A well-maintained wood dock can last up to 20 years but requires annual sanding, staining, painting and restructuring. It also rots and can splinter, especially when kids and pets play on it.
Marine construction materials like ipe and cedar are more resistant to rot, mildew and algae but are more expensive. A licensed dock builder can help minimize costs by incorporating features that promote longevity and ease of maintenance.