Houston Docks

Thousands of satisfied customers
Local and family owned
+15 years in business
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Trusted, Hurricane‑Ready Dock Builder in Seabrook / Kemah waterfronts, TX

Waterfront projects here demand durability and code‑compliant builds. With 15+ years serving Clear Lake and Galveston Bay, we’re a local, family‑owned, licensed and insured team that designs and builds docks, piers, boathouses, bulkheads, and lifts that last. Our crews respond fast, follow NEC 555/NFPA 303, and handle permits with USACE and the Texas GLO.

From storm damage to worn decking and outdated lifts, we solve safety and access issues with engineered solutions and marine‑grade materials. If you’re searching for Dock Builder Seabrook / Kemah waterfronts TX, count on us for reliable timelines, clean job sites, and a workmanship warranty. Contact us today for a free on‑site estimate.

Dock Construction, Boathouses, Bulkheads, and Marine Services in Seabrook & Kemah

We build and restore residential and commercial waterfronts with engineered structures tailored to Clear Lake and Galveston Bay. Every project uses proven methods, code‑compliant electrical, and corrosion‑resistant materials for long service life.

Dock Construction

Your dock must handle wakes, wind, and brackish water. We design fixed or floating systems using pressure‑treated southern yellow pine, composite/PVC decking (Trex, TimberTech, WearDeck), stainless 316 hardware, and hot‑dip galvanized fasteners. Our crews install batter piles, cross‑bracing, and through‑bolted caps for rigidity. We mobilize a barge, vibratory pile hammer, and jetting pump to minimize shoreline disturbance. Outcome: a stable, low‑maintenance dock tuned to your site’s fetch, depth, and elevation. Learn more about our Dock Construction services.

Elevated Boathouse Construction

Protect your vessel from UV, surge, and debris with a purpose‑built boathouse. We engineer windload connections, hurricane straps, and notched beams, then integrate lifts, catwalks, lighting, and utility pedestals. Options include metal or composite roofs, FRP piles, and epoxy‑coated fasteners for extra corrosion resistance. We coordinate permitting and floodplain freeboard so you pass inspection the first time. Learn more about our Elevated Boathouse Construction services.

Boat & Jet Ski Lift Installation

We size and install lifts at 10k, 15k, and 20k lbs with proper piling spacing, helical tie‑backs or deadmen (as needed), and balanced cradles for hull safety. Our team verifies electrical per NEC 555.35 with GFCI/GFPE protection to reduce ESD risk. We also install modular PWC ports for jet skis. After installation, we test with a portable load method and train you on safe operation. Learn more about our Boat & Jet Ski Lift Installation services.

Bulkhead Installation

Stop erosion with vinyl/PVC sheet piling (ShoreGuard), geotextile underlayment, and limestone or granite riprap toe protection. We set grade with a laser level, drive sheets, install helical tie‑backs to stable soils, and cap with treated timber or concrete. For existing walls, we can add tie‑back repairs and cathodic protection anodes where appropriate. Result: a clean, long‑lasting shoreline with reduced maintenance. Learn more about our Bulkhead Installation services.

Dock Repair

Storms, ship wakes, and wood borers take a toll. We replace damaged piles (including FRP encapsulation), re‑deck with composite boards, upgrade hardware, and realign floats and hinges. Electrical safety checks include GFCI/GFPE verification and bonding/grounding per ABYC guidance. We document issues for insurance and restore function quickly to minimize downtime. Learn more about our Dock Repair services.

Other Services We Offer

Why Choose Us as Your Dock Builder in Seabrook / Kemah waterfronts, TX

At Houston Docks, we combine local knowledge with engineering‑driven builds that stand up to Clear Lake’s conditions. We’ve served thousands of Gulf Coast clients and back our work with clear warranties and ongoing service. If you’re comparing Dock Builder Seabrook / Kemah waterfronts TX options, our credentials, equipment, and permitting expertise set us apart.

Certified Marine Construction Expertise

Our project managers maintain OSHA 10/30 and ABYC E‑11 awareness for dock electrical, and our team follows NFPA 303 for marinas and boatyards. We’re active with the Association of Marina Industries and the Pile Driving Contractors Association Texas Chapter, keeping us current on piling methods and lift standards. That means better decisions on pile type, spacing, and connections for your site.

Case in point: in 2024 near Seabrook Marina, we rebuilt a storm‑damaged courtesy dock using FRP piles, composite decking, and float hinge upgrades. The result cut maintenance calls by 60% across the first boating season.

Permitting and Compliance Made Easy

We manage USACE Galveston District Section 10/404 applications, Texas GLO structure registrations and coastal leases, plus City of Seabrook and City of Kemah building permits via the MyGov portal. We also coordinate Harris and Galveston County floodplain approvals and FEMA elevation documentation (Seabrook freeboard +18").

Our permitting checklist covers plan sets, pier length constraints (the 115‑foot residential rule where applicable), and environmental BMPs such as turbidity/silt curtains. You get accurate timelines and fewer surprises—most approvals land in 45–120 days depending on scope.

Built for Hurricanes and Brackish Water

We specify stainless 316 hardware, epoxy‑coated fasteners, and galvanic isolation to fight corrosion. Where needed, we recommend pile wrapping/encapsulation and FRP or concrete piles to resist marine borers. Structural details include batter piles, cross‑bracing, and through‑bolting at notched caps for superior racking resistance in surge.

For shorelines, we design vinyl sheet piling systems with geotextile underlayment, helical tie‑backs, and riprap toe protection. Prefer a softer approach? We can discuss living shoreline hybrids with marsh planting and rock sills, coordinated with the Galveston Bay Foundation resources.

Local Fleet, Tools, and Safety‑First Operations

Our barge and workboat mobilize quickly to Seabrook, Kemah, and Clear Lake Shores. We use a vibratory pile hammer, jetting pump, crane/boom truck, and laser‑level layout to build precisely and efficiently. During in‑water work we deploy turbidity barriers and follow OSHA 29 CFR 1926.106 with PFDs and rescue skiff on site.

Electrical is installed by a Texas licensed electrician per NEC 555.35/210.8 GFCI/GFPE requirements to reduce ESD risk. We confirm bonding and grounding and can add dock lighting and pedestals rated for the marine environment.

Dock Services Across Clear Lake, Galveston Bay, and Greater Houston

Houston Docks proudly serves residential and commercial clients throughout Greater Houston—especially Clear Lake and the Galveston Bay system. If you’re within 30 miles of Houston, we’ve likely worked in your neighborhood and can mobilize quickly for bids, repairs, and new construction.

Serving All Neighborhoods in Seabrook / Kemah waterfronts

We build and repair along Seabrook (ZIP 77586), Kemah (ZIP 77565), and nearby Clear Lake Shores, El Lago, Taylor Lake Village, Nassau Bay, Bacliff (77518), Dickinson (77539), Shoreacres (77571), and League City (77573). From the Kemah Boardwalk area to Marina Bay Harbor, we know wind/wave patterns and local inspection requirements.

Count on our Dock Builder Seabrook / Kemah waterfronts TX team for fast site visits, code‑compliant plans, and hurricane‑ready upgrades suited to brackish water and daily boat traffic.

Other locations we serve near Seabrook / Kemah waterfronts

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to build a dock in Seabrook or Kemah?

Yes. Most projects require USACE Galveston District authorization, Texas GLO structure registration or a coastal lease/easement, and City permits (Seabrook or Kemah via the MyGov portal). Floodplain approvals may also apply. We prepare plans, submit applications, and coordinate reviews so your dock passes inspection without delays.

How does the 115‑foot residential pier rule apply on Clear Lake and Galveston Bay?

Texas guidance often limits residential piers to about 115 feet from the shoreline, subject to site constraints, navigation, and lease terms. We verify allowable length with the GLO/USACE, confirm setbacks and channel buffers, and design for adequate depth, vessel draft, and turning radius without impeding navigation.

What’s the difference between a floating dock and a fixed pier here?

Floating docks rise and fall with water levels, making boarding easier and protecting against minor surge; they use hinges/rollers and HDPE/foam floats. Fixed piers feel more rigid and are ideal for consistent elevations and heavy loads. We recommend based on fetch, depth, exposure, and desired freeboard for Clear Lake conditions.

Which materials last longest in brackish water locally?

We favor composite/PVC decking (Trex, TimberTech, WearDeck), stainless 316 or hot‑dip galvanized hardware, and FRP or concrete piles in high‑exposure zones. Vinyl/PVC sheet piling with geotextile and riprap toe protection resists corrosion and erosion. These choices reduce rot, borer damage, and maintenance in Seabrook and Kemah.

What electrical code applies to docks and marinas in Texas?

We follow NEC 555.35 and 210.8 for GFCI/GFPE protection, bonding/grounding, and equipment rating, plus NFPA 303 for marinas/boatyards. A Texas licensed electrician performs installations and we test to reduce ESD (electric shock drowning) risks. We can also upgrade older systems to current standards.

How long do USACE and Texas GLO approvals take?

Most dock, lift, and boathouse projects see approvals in roughly 45–120 days, depending on scope, wetlands impacts, and review load. We expedite by submitting complete plans, including site maps, profiles, and BMPs (turbidity barriers). City permits typically run in parallel to keep your project moving.

What are the pros and cons of living shorelines versus bulkheads?

Living shorelines use marsh plantings and rock sills to absorb wave energy and enhance habitat; they’re eco‑friendly but need space and suit moderate‑energy sites. Bulkheads provide crisp edges and maximum protection in tighter lots but reflect wave energy. We evaluate fetch, soils, and goals to recommend the best fit.

How much does a residential boat dock cost on Clear Lake?

Costs vary by length, pile type, decking, and features. As a rough range, simple residential docks often start in the mid‑five figures, with boathouses, composite decking, and lifts adding substantially. After a site visit, we provide a detailed, itemized proposal that fits your budget and timeline.

What maintenance keeps boat lifts and docks reliable?

Rinse hardware monthly, lubricate lift components per manufacturer guidance, and schedule annual inspections for cables, pulleys, motors, and electrical GFCI/GFPE devices. Re‑tighten through‑bolts, check pile wraps, and replace sacrificial anodes where used. These steps extend service life and reduce mid‑season downtime.