dock height ?

[Cheers]

I am rebuilding my crib dock this spring and have the ability to make it higher out of the water . How high should a dock be above water level ? I am thinking 18 inches. What do you think ?

[delcecchi]

Hiw much does the water level change during the (open water) year?

[Raider4ever]

We have the deck surface of ours about 15-18" above the water when we put it in. We basically leave it alone unless there's a big rain and the lake goes up. Has happened about twice in the 25 years I've been there. But, yes water fluctuation is the key question here. Are you on a river? Lake with inlets/outlets? Spring fed? I would guess 18" above the highest you've ever seen it if the water stays relatively stable.

[Cheers]

I can compensate for the water level fluctuations , just wondering about the theoretical target to aim for assuming normal conditions should I plan for 18 inches or is that to low or high ?

[delcecchi]

I seem to like it best when my dock is like a foot or so above the water. Are you tying boats to it? swimming off it? what do you use it for?

[ottertailguy]

It depends on how big the body of water you are on? What works when a wind storm comes on Gull Lake won't work on Mille Lacs Lake because it's so much bigger.

[Cheers]

I keep the boat on a lift so the storms are not a factor , just swimming and day use for boats

[gunner55]

We have bumpers for the boat & dock & to protect against dock rash ours need to be around 15-18" off the water.We have a busy resort nearby & July/August sees a lot of skiing so I will put it on the lift then.A winch with a strap & 6 bolts & 1 person can adjust the height alone.