It’s not uncommon to see lovely waterline houses and property on the shores of areas like Lake Superior, the ocean and other large bodies of water. These geographic areas are ripe for the inclusion of a dock system, adding a waterfront docking system can do wonders to increase a shoreline property’s value and look.
There are several different types of docking systems that can help increase a property’s value and look, these systems include:
- Crib
- Floating
- Lift-up
- Pipe
Because these docking systems have different functions and designs, it’s important to understand what those differences are.
Crib systems
Crib or permanent docking systems are good choices for property owners that want a low maintenance docking system for their property. The docking is stable using steel pilings which are secured to a lake or shore bottom.
Floating systems
Floating docking systems work best in areas that have muddy bottoms, fluctuating water levels or deep-water areas without a lot of wave action. These types of systems are made of plastic and can be left in the water during the winter provided they’ve been detached from the shore.
Lift-up systems
A docking lift-up system works best in areas receiving shore ice, these types of systems are good bets for being raised up and for use during the winter. Lift systems stand on legs that can easily be lifted using a winch to raise it for use during winter months.
Pipe systems
Pipe docking also stands on a legging. However, these are better for areas where property owners don’t mind taking them out in the fall season to prevent damage during the winter storm season. These economical docking systems do need a firm shore bottom but are easy to install.
The benefits of dock construction
Docking can improve not only the value of a property but also its look and feel. The inclusion of such systems onto waterfront properties can encourage fish habitats and support their growth. Docking prevents beach erosion by preventing the break wave actions that can cause it.
What to look for when considering docking for waterfront property
Water depletion is a major consideration for cottage region areas. So, property owners wanting to include docking systems onto a property need to know how water levels in their area rise and fall. Because depending on the outcome, it might be better to utilize combination docking to meet their property needs.
How docking can increase property value
Depending on the type of docking included onto a property, owners can expect to see a sizable increase in property value from the inclusion of a slip. The total increase in value is dependent on property type and its location. The return on investment in an average floating system can increase the value of a property by on average $14,000 to $20,000.
Waterfront dock construction can help a property to sell faster and at a higher price than neighboring properties without one. Property buyers often consider not just the x’s and o’s of a property, but what a property can uniquely offer them. Docking system can offer a different type of cosmetic appeal which can help stand out against other similar properties. Docking can add considerable value to the home or property making it an important investment in its potential future resale value.
It is sometimes hard to get a permit for a docking system, making a property with navigable boat access more valuable than a property without one.
It’s easy to see that a docking system for waterfront property not only increases the value of the property, but it makes a great addition to the waterfront ownership experience.
