Maximize Your Country Lake By Installing An Aluminum Dock

If you've purchased a home on a lake, then you probably want to take advantage of the water. That means swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. Of course, you can do all of these actives without a dock, but this lake accessory makes it much easier and enjoyable.

Below is an overview of what a dock is, the benefits it has for swimmers, and the reasons you want one if you plan on using a kayak or canoe.

What Exactly Is A Dock?

A dock can be thought of as a bridge between land and the water. It starts on your property at the edge of the water and extends out into the lake. It only goes out a short distance, usually enough so that you reach deep water. It should not be confused with a raft, which is a floating "island" that sits out in the middle of a lake and is used by swimmers to rest on, sunbathe on, or dive from.

How A Dock Helps Swimmers

Docks are helpful if you don't like walking out into the water through the mucky, muddy bottom of the lake. You can walk out on the dock and climb down into the deep water without having to get your feet dirty. At the end of the dock you can place a ladder that you can use to climb back up when you're done.

How A Dock Is Necessary For Kayaking or Canoeing

A dock is also essential for canoeing or kayaking. It's not only tricky to launch a boat from shore if the water is shallow, it can do damage to the vessel. When you sit down in the boat right near shore it can sink and hit the rocks or muddy bottom. If you use an oar to push yourself out, you risk scraping the bottom of the boat and creating a leak. Instead, you should float the kayak or canoe out on the water by leading it with a rope. Walk on the dock and tie the boat at the end. You can then enter the vessel in deeper water and not be worried about damaging it.

What Is The Best Material For A Dock?

Old-fashioned docks used to be made of pressure treated wood. These were superior to regular wood because the chemicals in the pressure treated wood were water resistant. However, they did eventually break down over time. The better material to use is aluminum. Docks made from aluminum are great because they don't rot in water. They also don't rust, so you won't have to worry about rusty metal scratching you when you're climbing in and out of the water. Additionally, if you live in an area where the water freezes during the winter, aluminum is great because it is less prone to cracking than natural wood.

For more information, contact a company like TR ALUMINUM DESIGNS.