Houston Docks

Thousands of satisfied customers
Local and family owned
+15 years in business
Licensed and insured
Always FREE Quotes

Trusted & Local Dock Builder in Bayou Vista & Tiki Island, TX

At Houston Docks, we build, repair, and upgrade saltwater docks that stand up to West Bay conditions. With 15+ years serving Galveston County, we’re a licensed, insured, family-run team known for durable craftsmanship and fast response - especially after storms.

We handle everything from new boathouses and boat lifts to bulkheads, seawalls, and re-decking. Our ABYC-informed electrical practices and OSHA-trained crews keep projects safe and code-compliant. When you need a Dock Builder Bayou Vista & Tiki Island TX homeowners trust, count on us for clear timelines and clean worksites. Reach out today for a free on-site estimate.

Marine Construction & Dock Services for Galveston County Waterfronts

We design and build long-lasting docks tailored to canal, bay, and open-water conditions. Every project is engineered for tides, surge, and everyday use - and backed by careful permitting and quality control.

Custom Dock Design

Waterfronts in Bayou Vista and Tiki Island vary by depth, fetch, and current. We start with site-specific design that addresses wind load, boat traffic, and tide range. Our team recommends materials like composite/PVC decking, aluminum framing, and 316 stainless hardware to resist corrosion. We incorporate adjustable gangways, lighting, and kayak launches as needed. Then we build to spec using pile driving, hurricane bracing, and encapsulated floats where required. Learn more about our Custom Dock Design services.

Dock Construction

We construct fixed and floating docks using marine‑grade pressure‑treated pine, composite boards (Trex, TimberTech, WearDeck), and vinyl or concrete components when appropriate. Our barge with crane, vibratory hammer, and laser levels ensure true lines and secure embedment. Cross‑bracing and uplift strapping add storm resilience, while fenders and bumpers protect hulls. We manage permits and inspections so you can enjoy your dock sooner. Learn more about our Dock Construction services.

Elevated Boathouse Construction

Protect your vessel with a boathouse tailored to Jones Bay and West Bay conditions. We build elevated structures with metal roofs, proper clearances, and hurricane tie‑downs. Options include upper decks, covered slips, and integrated power pedestals. Our crews set piles with the right embedment for surge zones and add batter piles for lateral resistance when required. Lighting and GFCI/GFPE protection are installed to current standards. Learn more about our Elevated Boathouse Construction services.

Boat & Jet Ski Lift Installation

From PWC lifts to 10k–25k lb four‑post and elevator lifts, we install systems sized to your boat and slip. We set pilings and stringers for lift loads, align cradles, and balance motors/gearboxes. Proper electrical bonding and disconnects reduce risk and downtime. We also offer wireless remotes, catwalks, and canopy options to simplify daily use. Learn more about our Boat & Jet Ski Lift Installation services.

Bulkhead Installation

Canal banks and bay shorelines need robust erosion control. We install vinyl sheet piling (e.g., ShoreGuard), timber walls, or concrete/seawall systems based on soil and exposure. Tie‑backs, deadmen, and concrete caps add strength, while 18–24 in. riprap breaks wave energy. We handle floodplain coordination and tie wall transitions to docks and ramps for a clean, unified finish. Learn more about our Bulkhead Installation services.

Other Services We Offer

Why Choose Houston Docks in Bayou Vista & Tiki Island

We’ve delivered hundreds of projects across Galveston County - residential canal docks, boathouses with upper decks, and shoreline protection that lasts. Houston Docks combines proven engineering with local know‑how, so your investment handles wind, wakes, and storm surge. When you need a Dock Builder Bayou Vista & Tiki Island TX residents recommend, our team stands behind every piling we drive and every board we fasten.

Certified Marine Expertise

Our crew brings ABYC marine electrical knowledge, OSHA 10/30 training, and membership in the Pile Driving Contractors Association and Marina Association of Texas. That means we build to accepted best practices and continually train on new methods and materials.

We design for site conditions - fetch on West Bay, currents near the Galveston Causeway, or shallow canals off Highland Bayou. From helical anchors that restrain floating docks to batter piles for lateral resistance, we select details that match your environment.

Permitting Made Straightforward

Permitting can be complex. We assist with USACE Galveston District Section 10/404 submittals (RRS e‑filing), Texas General Land Office joint applications, Galveston County floodplain coordination, and Tiki Island ACC approvals when required. We also interface with local AHJs to keep reviews moving.

Our plans include accurate site drawings, elevations, and spec sheets for decking, piles, and electrical to speed approvals. We track deadlines and agency comments so your project avoids costly delays.

Equipment, Materials, and Methods That Last

We stage efficiently using a spud barge with crane, pile driver, jetting pump, and diver support when needed. Laser levels maintain consistent elevations, while torque tools ensure proper fastener tension. This attention to detail prevents long‑term issues like racking or uplift.

Material choices matter on the Gulf Coast. We recommend composite/PVC boards (Trex, TimberTech, WearDeck), 316 stainless and galvanized fasteners, vinyl sheet piling, EcoPile/HDPE pilings, and encapsulated float drums. Cross‑bracing, hurricane strapping, and cathodic protection add durability where exposure demands it.

Safety and Code Compliance

We build to OSHA 29 CFR 1926 standards for pile driving and fall protection. For electrical, we follow NEC Articles 555 and 682, with GFCI/GFPE protection, bonding, and signage to reduce Electric Shock Drowning risk. Where applicable, we reference NFPA 303 for marina fire safety.

Our documented jobsite safety plans, daily toolbox talks, and insured operations protect your family, property, and our crews. You get a safe build and a safer dock for years to come.

Local Responsiveness and Ongoing Care

We’re nearby, so storm assessments, emergency repairs, and seasonal maintenance are fast. Annual inspections catch corrosion, worn sheaves, or loose connections early, saving you expensive fixes later.

From re‑decking to lift upgrades and riprap stabilization, we keep your waterfront ready for weekends, guests, and changing conditions on Jones Bay and West Bay.

Dock Services Across Galveston County and Greater Houston Waterfronts

Houston Docks proudly serves residential and commercial clients throughout Greater Houston’s bays, canals, and rivers - including Galveston County. If you’re within a 25–30 mile radius of Houston or the West Bay/Jones Bay area, we’ve likely worked in your neighborhood. Same‑week consultations are often available.

Serving All Neighborhoods in Bayou Vista & Tiki Island

We know the canal systems in Bayou Vista (77563) and Tiki Island (77554), from Diversionary Canal to channels off Jones Bay and West Bay. Our team is familiar with local policies, Tiki Island ACC expectations, and how wind, tides, and wakes shape your design choices.

Whether you’re near the Galveston Causeway or along main canals off Highland Bayou, we tailor docks, boathouses, and lifts to water depth, currents, and boat size. When you’re searching for reliable tree - make that - dock services in Bayou Vista & Tiki Island, we’re ready to help.

Other locations we serve near Bayou Vista & Tiki Island

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does dock construction take?

Most residential docks in Bayou Vista or Tiki Island take 2–4 weeks once permits are approved. Timeline depends on scope (fixed vs. floating), pile count, lift installation, and weather windows. We schedule around tides and coordinate material deliveries in advance. You’ll receive a written schedule, and we provide progress updates so you always know what’s next.

Do I need a permit to build a dock in Galveston County?

Yes. Projects typically require USACE Galveston District authorization (Section 10/404), a Texas GLO joint application, and Galveston County floodplain coordination. In Tiki Island, Village building permits and ACC approval may apply. We prepare drawings, site plans, and specs, submit via RRS where required, and track agency comments to keep your project moving.

What materials are best for a saltwater dock?

We often recommend composite or PVC decking (Trex, TimberTech, WearDeck) on aluminum or treated timber framing with 316 stainless and hot‑dipped galvanized fasteners. For shorelines, vinyl sheet piling and EcoPile/HDPE pilings resist rot and marine borers. Encapsulated float drums work well for floating docks. Final choices depend on exposure, maintenance goals, and budget.

Is a floating dock or a fixed dock better for Bayou Vista/Tiki Island canals?

Both can work. Floating docks handle tide changes and minor surge well, especially with helical anchors and quality guides. Fixed pile docks feel solid, offer easy tie‑ups, and suit lift installs. In canals with consistent depth, fixed piles are common; near open water or variable tides, floating sections with adjustable gangways can be a smart choice.

How much does it cost to build a dock in Texas and what drives the price?

Costs vary by size, materials, water depth, pile count, and options like lifts, lighting, or a boathouse. In Galveston County, corrosion‑resistant materials and hurricane bracing add value and longevity. We provide line‑item estimates so you can compare options - such as composite vs. wood decking or vinyl vs. timber bulkheads - before committing.

What permits and approvals are required for a new boathouse in Tiki Island or Bayou Vista?

Expect USACE Section 10/404 review, Texas GLO CMP/joint application, county floodplain coordination, and Tiki Island Village permit/ACC approval where applicable. We create permit‑ready plans showing pile layout, roof height, over‑water area, and electrical notes. Our team manages submittals and responses to keep your boathouse on track.

What electrical code applies to docks to prevent Electric Shock Drowning (ESD)?

We design to NEC Articles 555 and 682 for docks and marinas, using GFCI/GFPE protection, bonding, and labeling. We also follow NFPA 303 guidance where relevant. Our ABYC‑informed practices include proper disconnects, corrosion‑resistant components, and signage to minimize ESD risk in residential settings on Galveston Bay.

Can you repair or upgrade my existing dock/boathouse?

Yes. We handle re‑decking, structural reinforcement, piling replacement, float swaps, and lift upgrades. We can add riprap for erosion control, improve lighting and power pedestals, and install new PWC or boat lifts. After an inspection, we’ll prioritize safety items first and provide a phased plan that fits your budget.

Do you install boat lifts for PWC and 10k–25k lb boats in the Galveston area?

We install PWC lifts, four‑post lifts, elevator lifts, and freestanding systems sized for 10k–25k lb vessels. We set pilings, align cradles, and tune motors/gearboxes. Options include remote controls, catwalks, and canopies. We also provide maintenance and repairs to keep your lift running smoothly season after season.