Whether the tide is high or low, a floating boat dock will rise or fall to create a smooth transition into your watercraft. GatorDock offers three different types of floatation on our docks: the full float, the pontoon float, and the poly-tub float. Learn about these options and choose your dock design below or watch our floatation overview video in our resource library. At Gator, we call our floating marine access structures 'docks' and we call our fixed structures 'piers.' To learn more about fixed dock systems, visit our pier section.
The full float's rugged, fully encased aluminum float with polyurethane is designed to meet the challenging criteria of the most intricate projects. The fully welded frame provides unmatched stability and durability in the harsh marine environment. From extreme tidal fluctuations to heavy fetch from coastal waterways, no other floating dock system in the world out-performs the GatorDock Full Float System.
During our decades of research and development we invented the pontoon floating dock. Using a proprietary polyurethane injection system, the aluminum float shells are filled with durable foam. It is important to note that both the Full Float and the Pontoon Float use polyurethane foam rather than polystyrene for buoyancy. Whereas polystyrene foam (similar to styrofoam) can dissolve and degrade when exposed to common chemicals found in marine environments, our polyurethane foam will remain intact even if exposed to boat fuels and marine chemicals. Gator Pontoon docks are ideally suited for areas with moderate traffic and are popular on boat ramp docks.
These economical plastic tubs are filled with polystyrene foam and bolted to the dock frame. Whereas the aluminum casings for the Full Float and Pontoon floatation systems are welded on the aluminum frames, the bolt on feature of the Poly-Tubs mean they can be replaced in the field. Ask Gator about incorporating a groundout cage into your Poly-Tub float design to protect the plastic casing during potential impact.
Whether your dock is used for fishing, swimming, or boat access, Gator can fabricate a system specific to your needs. Start designing your float dock by choosing a floatation style above then decking and accessories from below. GatorDock has been making long-lasting, durable floating docks for decades. Start your project by filling out the contact us form.
For areas with little tide fluctuation or shallow water, a fixed dock system can be designed. Rather than choose a flotation type, your dock will be fitted with header kits and pilings for support. Enhance your fixed dock design with fenders, bumpers, cleats and utilities to create a fixed boat dock or add railing to create a fishing dock.
Gator can provide you with standard design options for your favorite boating interest including motorboats, kayaks, canoes, sailboats, rowing hulls, and other personal watercraft. Any design can be modified by changing the flotation type, decking, or accessories. When designing a dock to accommodate boat traffic, internal pile guides are often used to anchor the dock.
Most of our dock systems are intended to be permanent. Some of our clients want to move the location of their docks or create multiple layout options with our aluminum dock sections. Gator can design a modular dock system specific to your use and site needs.
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Download drawings, specs, and other engineering resources in our technical section.