Get matched with top dock building and repair pros in Ripley, WV

Here are a few other considerations before you build, even if you're convinced you're in compliance with the law:

• Are you damaging the environment? Bodies of water are often delicate ecosystems, and building a dock can be destructive and disruptive to the wildlife.

• Are you blocking access? Lots of people like to use a lake, so you need to make sure your dock doesn't block public access to the water.

• Can you enclose the dock? Just because you can build a dock doesn't mean you can build any dock you want. Some areas don't allow enclosed docks, for example.

• Do you need to follow any specific rules or guidelines? Check with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) Office for Coastal Management for any guidelines you’ll need to follow, including size and type restrictions.

Minor repairs like replacing boards can be DIY-friendly, but structural or underwater repairs require professional expertise.

Docks can last between 20 and 30 years, provided regular maintenance has been performed. Upkeep tasks like staining your dock annually to prevent water damage, repairing broken elements quickly, and using dock covers regularly will help extend your dock’s life. Your dock is likely nearing the end of its lifespan when it shows signs of rot, rust, and foundation damage.

Repair costs range from $500 to $5,000, depending on material type, structural damage, and labor. Extensive piling or decking replacements increase the price.