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All About Docks
Floats Under the Ramp
Many dock builders put a float under the ramp. Instead of a float, we recommend thicker floats under the tie section (24”).This is more practical and less expensive. Also, floats under ramps do not work as well when the lake is a low pool.
Steel Structure
We build a 12” high sub-structure all welded with three 1” x 1” x 1/8” angles diagonally in every 4’ section. Rail angles are 2” x 2” x 1/8” continuously. The complete dock is welded into one piece.
Roofing
We use 26 Ga. Sheeting over 14 Ga. Galvanized “Z” purlins. We provide a nice range of roof colors. We recommend a light-colored roof as it will not fade as quickly or dramatically as a darker-colored roof will.
Trim
Our trim is priced separately, as everyone's wants and needs are different. In most cases we recommend 3 foot post bumpers on all posts that the boat can touch, and vinyl around the entire dock, except for the side by the shore.
Lockers
We build an upright 4’ x 8’ all steel locker with an all-metal door. It is built on its own structure which is added to the dock instead of built on top of the dock. This looks much nicer and allows for more walking room.
De-Icers
We recommend that you keep your dock de-iced because when the lake level drops and freezes, it will pull the dock away from the shore, thus causing damage. On two well docks, we recommend two 1/3 HP Deck Mount De-Icers as opposed to one large de-icer.
Winter Draw Down
Ameren Union Electric Co. is licensed to draw the lake down to 650 feet elevation under normal conditions. It is customary for the lake to reach approximately 653’ elevation during February and March. In most cases it is safer to let the dock set on the bottom as opposed to moving it out. As it is moved out the dock is more vulnerable to high winds. Usually when the lake comes back up it does so within a few days. Many times the water comes over the ramp before anyone can get it put back to its original position.
Floatation
We use encapsulated floatation with the best fastening system. We believe this is the best on the market. It also has the best fastening system. We use 4’ x 6’ x 20”, 4’ x 8’ x 20” and also 24” floats on the tie-section.
Decking
We use a 2’ x 2’ steel reinforced square concrete decking. Other types of decking are used upon request. Thicker flotation is used to compensate for the extra weight. We highly recommend concrete, especially in rough water.
Lifts
We are an Econo-Lift dealer. This is the least expensive “good” lift you can buy. It will lift more per rating than other lifts. We also offer Poly Lift. Tip: When you remove your boat from the lift (any lift), raise the lift back up, but do not raise the
dock out of the water.
We Build the Best & Repair the Rest
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Rich’s Dock Co Inc |
119 Merlin Drive |
Toll-Free: 800-417-3800 |
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