Plastic Docks – A good choice for dock decking?

When it comes to the decking for your dock, you have many options ranging from plastic docks to wood docks to vinyl docks. But, how do you know what’s best? It’s important to think about a variety of factors when deciding between decking choices. For example, many dock owners immediately think about purchasing wood decking for their dock. Wood feels more natural under your feet than plastic or vinyl and looks great next to the water. In addition, wood tends to be a bit less expensive to purchase upfront. However, over time, wood tends to lose its great looks and requires much more maintenance than other types of decking. The upfront cost of wood decking may be enticing, but the maintenance costs of keeping up with wood decking is often much greater than either plastic decking or vinyl decking. In general, one would need to power wash the wood decking annually and apply a finish or stain every three to four years.

Besides thinking about the maintenance of a decking, it is important to also think about the safety and use of your new dock. Docks are used for many reasons, including access to a boat or pontoon. Docks are also used for fishing, swimming, work, special events, sunbathing, relation, and more. This is why choosing the right, high quality decking is so important. Owners of wood docks need to watch for warping, rotting, splinters, and nails over time. This may mean that dock users need to be extra careful when using the dock or walking along the decking. While the initial cost is important when it comes to choosing the right decking for your new dock, it is also important to factor in maintenance, safety, and lifespan of each decking type.

Along with wood decking, dock owners can also choose plastic or vinyl decking. Both plastic docks and vinyl docks tend to require less maintenance than wood docks. Plastic and vinyl decking do not have to be sanded or refinished as wood often does. However, although plastic decking may require less maintenance than wood decking, plastic docks are not maintenance free. Plastic docks sometimes contain wood fibers, meaning they need to be cleaned often so that mold and mildew do not grow. If a plastic decking does not contain wood fibers, but rather is 100% plastic, it can be prone to cracking.

While wood and plastic docks can be a good solution for some, if you’re looking for a truly maintenance free and high quality docking system, then you want to consider a vinyl dock instead. Vinyl docks are a great option for any dock owner, because:

• Vinyl docks have the flexibility for custom layouts and design.
• Vinyl docks are a non-skid decking.
• Vinyl docks can withstand waves and storms.
• Vinyl docks require no maintenance and are long lasting.
• Vinyl docks are more resistant to fading, rotting, warping and nails than other docking.
• Vinyl dock owners do not need to look out for splinters.

At Recreational Services LLC, we proudly sell these maintenance free vinyl docks in three colors, including white, gray, and tan. All of our docks are aluminum construction, and stainless steel and zinc plated hardware. We provide services to Long Lake, Silver Lake, Glen Lake, Crystal Lake, Platte Lake, Duck Lake, Green Lake, North Lake Leelanau, South Lake Leelanau, Spider Lake, Arbutus Lake, Lime Lake, Little Traverse Lake, and Torch Lake.

If you want to buy a new dock, please call us at 1 (231) 633-1665. Our company is #1 in dock sales for Northern Michigan and is an authorized TriMet Dock dealer specializing in TriMet Dock sales. When purchasing a dock from us, we offer a complimentary waterfront consultation. This complimentary waterfront consultation allows us to personally measure water depth and assess your waterfront, so that we can provide you with an exact quote. It also allows us to take the time needed to discuss the best options for you and your new dock.

In addition to having the lowest prices on these top of the line vinyl docks, we also have all of the accessories you could need! We offer:

• Dock patios
• Dock ladders
• Platforms for docks
• Custom dock steps
• Dock benches
• Kayak or Stand up paddleboard racks
• Dock bumpers

If you don’t see what you’re looking for, we can make custom accessories to go with your new dock. We have designed everything from boat slips to hammocks and more!

Please call us at 1 (231) 633-1665 or come visit us at 216 E Front ST #201, Traverse City, MI 49684.

We look forward to hearing from you!

References

Your complete guide to decking choices. Shore Master. http://shoremaster.com/your-complete-guide-to-dock-decking-choices/.