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Posted on: 3 June 2020

As more people begin to engage in boating and water sport activities, the need for marinas continues to grow. The existing docks, however, do not have a lot of available space for expansion. That is why pontoons or floating docks are a great option. Pontoons are large platforms that are placed on floating airtight drums. With these floating docks, you can tie off more boats without blocking access from the beach. The design of the floating deck, however, determines how effective it will be. The article explains some vital elements to consider when building a pontoon. 

Choose the Perfect Material

Before you start developing a design, you should decide which material you will use on the floating dock. You can use different elements on the frame, the floats and the decking. Keep in mind the material you choose affects other aspects, such as the budget and the installation process. Anytime you are selecting the material for the pontoon, analyse the moisture levels in the area. The moisture level will have a different impact on various materials. The appearance you wish to achieve on the dock also affects the kind of element you use. Some common materials used for pontoons include wood and aluminium. 

Consider the Frame Construction

A floating dock is not just a deck put on top of the floating materials. There is a lot more consideration when constructing the pontoons. The frame is the first thing to build. Some materials that you can use for the docking frame include fibre-reinforced concrete, aluminium or wood. Use an element that works best for your needs and the environment. The framework you build should have a snug fit on the floats. That will allow you to remove the frame when you need to make repairs. A tightly secured structure also ensures that you get a steady platform for the decking.

Prioritise the Safety

Safety should be a priority when designing your pontoon deck. The floating docks tend to move with the water. Thus, the best way to ensure safety is by using an anti-slip surface on the docking. You can also use a long-lasting and compatible fastener for the decking structure. Once you put up the pontoon, ensure you carry out regular maintenance. That will ensure that the decking is in perfect condition at all times. Maintaining the pontoon will also work to prevent future problems that could lead to accidents. 

Conclusion

Creating a pontoon is no easy task. Therefore, get professionals to help you with the design of your floating deck. The experts will analyse all the important structural aspects and your needs to help design the perfect pontoon deck. Reach out to someone who has pontoons available.