Understanding Dock Floats

As you design and build your new dock, or upgrade an existing one, you might notice black, rectangular dock floats hidden beneath some docks and wonder about their role. Though they might look simple, float drums are vital for keeping a floating boat dock stable and above water. If you’re in the midst of a dock design project, considering a floating dock is a wise choice due to their easier installation, longevity, and low maintenance requirements. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what dock floats are, what they’re made of, and provide tips for installation and maintenance to help make your dock project a breeze. 

1. Dock Floats Defined 
2. Use Case Scenarios 
3. How Dock Floats Work 
4. Calculating Required Dock Floats 
5. Float Installation 
6. Maintaining Boat Dock Floats 
7. Frequently Asked Questions 

Dock floats are used in floating boat dock design to ensure the dock remains stable and at the correct height relative to fluctuating water levels. These foam floats provide the necessary buoyancy to keep the dock afloat, allowing it to rise and fall with changing water conditions. This stability is crucial for maintaining a safe and accessible platform for boarding and mooring boats, regardless of the water level. 

Foam dock floats are incredibly versatile and find their way into a variety of practical applications. Whether you’re setting up a new dock or enhancing an existing one, these floats can offer just the support you need. Here are some of the most popular ways foam float drums are used: 
 

• Residential docks and marinas: Whether you’re a homeowner with a lakeside retreat or managing a bustling marina, dock floats offer remarkable stability and reliability. For homeowners, these floats keep your dock steady and at the ideal height, regardless of changing water levels, so you can enjoy boating, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water without any hassle. In a marina setting, foam dock floats provide the necessary buoyancy to ensure that each dock remains stable and accessible even with high traffic and fluctuating water conditions.
• Emergency or temporary docks: Sometimes you need a dock in a pinch, and boat dock floats are great for that. They can be quickly assembled to create temporary or emergency docks for disaster response, providing a reliable solution when you need it most.
•  Dock extensions and modifications: Looking to expand or modify your existing dock? Foam floats can be used to extend or adjust your dock setup, adding buoyancy and stability to accommodate larger boats or new sections.
• Diving platforms: Dock floats are an excellent choice for constructing diving platforms for recreational use at a pond, offering stability and safety for divers of all levels.  
   

Dock floats are typically made from durable, marine-grade materials designed to withstand harsh water conditions. Common materials include: 
 
Rotationally molded polyethylene: Serving as the outer casing, polyethylene is a popular choice for dock floats due to its low maintenance and resistance to UV rays and corrosion. 

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) foam: Inside the protective polyethylene shell, pre-molded closed-cell foam blocks provide lightweight buoyancy. This design minimizes voids that could fill with water, which helps maintain buoyancy and stability over time. 

Dock floats work based on the principle of buoyancy. They displace a certain amount of water, which creates an upward force that counteracts the weight of the dock. This keeps the dock elevated and stable on the water's surface. 

Dock floats come in various sizes, weights, and weight capacities to accommodate different dock designs and weight requirements. Common float drum sizes range from small, individual floats that support lightweight docks to large, modular floats designed for more extensive systems. The size of the float you need will depend on the size and weight of your dock. 
To determine how many floats you need, you can use this straightforward formula to calculate the required buoyancy.  

Buoyancy = Weight of Dock / Float Weight Capacity 

First, figure out the total weight of your dock, including any additional load it will carry. Next, find the buoyancy rating for each dock float by checking the manufacturer's product details, which will indicate the maximum weight capacity of each float. Divide the total weight of your dock by the buoyancy rating of each float. 

For example, if your dock weighs 1,000 pounds and each float has a buoyancy rating of 250 pounds, you would need at least four dock floats to provide the necessary support. This calculation ensures that your dock remains stable and properly supported on the water. 

When installing dock floats, securing them properly to the floating boat dock structure is crucial for ensuring stability and safety. This typically involves using bolts, screws, or brackets specifically designed for marine applications. Sturdy mounting flanges on the dock floats are often used, and you may need to drill to accommodate attachment fasteners. It’s essential to choose hardware that is made from corrosion-resistant materials, such as stainless steel or marine-grade aluminum, to withstand the harsh conditions of exposure to water and weather. 
 
Of course, always consult the manufacturer's specifications for required hardware. The specifications will provide details on the recommended types and sizes of fasteners needed for a secure attachment. 

Regular maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of your dock floats. This involves checking for signs of wear, debris removal, and ensuring all hardware remains secure. Periodically inspect your dock floats for any signs of damage or deterioration. Look out for cracks, splits, or any irregularities that might affect their buoyancy and stability. 
 
Cleaning is another essential aspect of maintenance. Debris such as leaves, algae, and grime can accumulate on and around your dock floats, potentially impacting their performance and appearance. To make this task easier and more efficient, consider using the Taylor Made Power Pro portable power washer. This powerful tool is ideal for quickly and thoroughly cleaning dock floats, hardware, and other components. Its portability and robust cleaning capabilities allow you to remove stubborn dirt and buildup with ease, helping to maintain the aesthetic and functional quality of your dock system. 

Additionally, regularly check and tighten all hardware to ensure that everything is securely fastened. Loose or corroded fasteners can compromise the stability and safety of your dock. By staying on top of these maintenance tasks and using reliable cleaning equipment like the Power Pro, you’ll extend the lifespan of your dock floats and keep your dock system in excellent condition for years to come. 

No, it is highly recommended to remove your floating dock from the water during winter. Leaving your dock in the water can expose it to ice damage, which can compromise its structural integrity and performance. Most dock floats come with warranties that will be voided if they encounter ice damage, so taking your dock out of the water helps protect your investment and ensures that it remains in good condition for the next boating season. Proper winter storage prevents unnecessary wear and tear and extends the lifespan of your dock floats. 

The purpose of a floating dock is to provide a stable, adjustable platform on the water that remains level regardless of changing water levels. Unlike traditional fixed docks, floating boat docks rise and fall with the water, which makes them ideal for areas with fluctuating tides or seasonal changes. They are commonly used for boat mooring, fishing, swimming, and other water activities. Floating docks are designed to be easily installed and relocated, offering flexibility and convenience for waterfront properties, marinas, and recreational areas.  

The life expectancy of a floating dock can be up to 35 years, depending on factors such as the quality of materials used, maintenance practices, and environmental conditions. High-quality floating boat docks made with durable materials and properly maintained can provide long-lasting performance and reliability over several decades. Regular upkeep and proper winter storage can also help extend the lifespan of your dock. 

Cable anchoring is the most common method for securing a floating dock to the shore, providing a flexible and secure connection that allows the dock to adjust with changing water levels. 

Taylor Made dock floats are engineered for durability and performance. They feature a UV-resistant black polyethylene shell with EPS foam core, protecting against sinking and resisting salt water, gasoline, and harsh chemicals. Available in various sizes with dock flotations ranging from 450 to 1,200 lbs., they offer optimal buoyancy with ventilation holes that keep air in and water out. Built with 1/8" walls and a sturdy polyethylene shell, Taylor Made dock floats are durable and designed to last season after season.