Houston Docks
- Thousands of satisfied customers
- Local and family owned
- +15 years in business
- Licensed and insured
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Licensed & Insured Wood Dock Construction in Houston, TX
Your waterfront deserves a dock that’s sturdy, safe, and built for Houston weather. From daily boat traffic to sudden storms, wood docks take a beating. We design and build structures that stand up to wind, wake, and changing water levels—whether you’re on Lake Houston, Clear Lake, or Galveston Bay. Our barge crew, pile driver, and ABYC-trained technicians deliver precise results on every project.
With 15+ years serving the Greater Houston area, we manage permitting, engineering, and construction from start to finish. We use marine-grade treated pilings, hot-dipped galvanized connectors, and 316 stainless steel fasteners for long-term durability. If you’re comparing options for Wood Dock Construction Houston TX, we’ll guide you on wood species, fixed vs. floating layouts, and accessories like boat lifts and ADA-friendly gangways.
Tell us about your shoreline and goals. Contact us today for a free dock assessment and estimate.
Why Our Wood Dock Builds Deliver Safety, Longevity, and Real Value
You want a dock that looks great, works flawlessly, and lasts for years without headaches. Hiring experienced wood dock builders in Houston TX helps you avoid costly mistakes, structural failures, and permit delays. We bring proven design, engineered piling foundations, and professional installation to every project—so you get a dock that’s sturdy today and resilient tomorrow. Expect clear timelines, quality materials, and a clean jobsite from start to finish.
Safety & Risk Elimination
Safety starts with the foundation. We drive marine-grade treated timber piles (typically 8–12 in. diameter) with a vibratory hammer, add cross-bracing, and protect against scour at the base with riprap where needed. Proper footing reduces movement and protects your family, guests, and watercraft. For over-water work, our crews follow OSHA 29 CFR 1926, wear PFDs, and secure all access points.
Electrical risks are real on docks. We coordinate NEC Article 555-compliant GFCI/GFPE protection, watertight boxes, and bonding to reduce shock hazards. Handrails, non-slip decking, and code-aware lighting further improve safety. These choices lower liability and help ensure approvals and smooth insurance renewals.
Professional Results & Quality
We design for Houston’s wind, tide, and wake conditions using ASCE 7 guidance and locally adopted code. Framing uses ledger and stringer layouts with through-bolting, pre-drilled connections to prevent splits, hurricane ties, and hot-dipped galvanized hardware. Decking is fastened with 316 stainless screws for corrosion resistance.
Material options include pressure-treated southern yellow pine (MCA/ACQ), CCA for pilings where approved, and premium hardwoods like ipe. We seal and gap decking to manage drainage and UV exposure, and we can integrate boat lifts, jet ski platforms, and ADA-friendly gangways for a polished, purpose-built finish.
Time & Stress Savings
We handle it all—site survey, permitting, HOA coordination, engineering, build, and cleanup. Our barge/pontoon platform, long-reach excavator, and laser level streamline work even on tight canals or shallow coves. You stay informed with a clear schedule and single point of contact.
Because we stock common marine hardware and coordinate utilities early, there’s no waiting while parts ship or rework due to missed details. You get a faster path from concept to first launch day.
Cost-Effective Solution
Cut corners on a dock and you pay for it twice. We optimize pile spacing, joist layouts, and connectors to balance strength with cost, helping control wood dock cost per square foot in Houston TX without sacrificing safety. Smart choices like piling wraps reduce long-term rot and marine borer damage.
We also prevent future expenses with proper riprap, bulkhead tie-ins, and high-wear edge protection. Detailed cleanup, debris disposal, and optional maintenance plans keep ownership costs predictable.
Peace of Mind & Warranty
We’re licensed, insured, and BBB Houston accredited, with OSHA 10/30-trained crews and ABYC-certified technicians for lifts and dock power. For coastal builds, we can deliver TDI/TWIA windstorm-compliant documentation (WPI-8) when scope qualifies.
You’ll receive a written workmanship warranty, manufacturer-backed materials warranties, and a recommended care schedule. We also offer annual inspections, staining and sealing services, and priority storm response to keep your dock ready year-round.
How Our Wood Dock Construction Process Works
We make the experience straightforward and predictable. From permitting to punch list, our team keeps you informed and the site tidy.
1) On-Site Consultation
We meet at your waterfront to discuss use, water depth, soil conditions, wind/wake exposure, and preferred layout.
2) Design, Engineering & Permitting
We create a plan set, handle permits (City, County, USACE, lake authorities), and coordinate HOA approvals as needed.
3) Materials & Scheduling
We finalize piling sizes, decking species, hardware, and accessories like lifts or lighting, then lock your start date.
4) Construction & Quality Control
Our barge crew drives piles, frames the structure, installs decking and utilities, and follows strict safety standards.
5) Walkthrough & Care Plan
We review the finished dock, provide documentation and warranty details, and set up an optional maintenance schedule.
Why Choose Houston Docks for Wood Dock Construction in Houston
At Houston Docks, we build docks that match the demands of our waters and weather. Our team has completed hundreds of residential and commercial projects across the Greater Houston area, from Lake Houston to Galveston Island. We combine certified expertise, purpose-built equipment, and rigorous safety to deliver dependable results. When you’re evaluating Wood Dock Construction Houston TX, count on proven local pros who will stand behind the work.
Certified Expertise and Qualifications
Your dock benefits from specialists trained for marine environments. Our crews carry OSHA 10/30 credentials, and our lift and electrical work is guided by ABYC-certified marine technicians. When welding is needed for brackets or custom hardware, we deploy AWS D1.1-certified welders for code-compliant fabrication.
We’re active with the Pile Driving Contractors Association (PDCA) Texas Chapter and the Texas Marine Industry Coalition. These affiliations keep us aligned with best practices for pile driving, corrosion control, and safe over-water operations—so your project meets or exceeds industry benchmarks.
Licensing, Permits, and Safety Compliance
Permitting can be complex. We routinely handle the City of Houston Lake Houston Stationary/Floating Pier Permit, Lake Houston Annual Pier License, Harris County Floodplain Development Permit, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Galveston District Section 10/404 pathways. On Lake Conroe, we coordinate SJRA residential dock licensing; along the coast, we manage Texas General Land Office easements where applicable.
Electrical installations follow NEC Article 555 requirements for GFCI/GFPE, and structural loads are designed to ASCE 7. Our safety program meets OSHA over-water standards, including fall protection, PFDs, and controlled access zones, keeping people and property safe throughout the build.
Purpose-Built Equipment and Materials
We work from a barge/pontoon platform with a vibratory hammer for driven piles, supported by a long-reach excavator, auger rig, and laser level for precision. This setup ensures proper embedment depth, pile alignment, and faster production without cutting corners.
We specify marine-grade treated pilings, hot-dipped galvanized connectors, and 316 stainless steel fasteners. For decking, choose pressure-treated southern yellow pine (MCA/ACQ), composite overlays, or hardwoods like ipe. Options such as piling wraps, encapsulated float drums, and Galvalume roofing on boathouses extend service life in both brackish and freshwater.
Local Knowledge Across Diverse Waters
Conditions change from Lake Houston and the San Jacinto River to Clear Lake, Seabrook/Kemah, and Galveston Bay. We adjust pile sizing, bracing, and corrosion strategies to match each site’s wind, wake, salinity, and soil profile. Where soils demand it, we can integrate helical piles to supplement timber foundations.
Coastal projects can be designed for TWIA/TDI windstorm documentation (WPI-8) when applicable. We also coordinate ADA-compliant gangway slopes for fluctuating water levels, helping homeowners and guests access the dock comfortably year-round.
Customer-First Policies and Guarantees
Clear communication is standard. We provide detailed proposals, realistic timelines, and weekly updates during construction. You’ll receive a written workmanship warranty and manufacturer documentation for hardware, lifts, and lighting.
After completion, our maintenance plans include annual inspections, sealing and staining, and prompt storm damage support. We also assist with insurance claim documentation for dock damage to help you recover quickly and correctly.
Professional Wood Dock Construction Backed by Years of Local Experience
We’ve delivered durable docks and piers across Greater Houston—from private fishing spots to full-featured boathouses with lifts. Our projects are engineered for local wind and wave exposure and tailored to your shoreline. If you’re searching for Wood Dock Construction Houston TX, our team brings proven methods and materials to sites around Lake Houston, Clear Lake, and Galveston Bay.
Types of Wood Dock Projects We Handle
We build residential wood boat docks, private fishing piers, community/HOA piers, marina finger piers, and restaurant/transient docks. Whether you need a fixed piling structure, a floating segment for fluctuating levels, or a dock extension and walkway, we’ll match the design to your waterbody.
Options include boathouses with upper decks, jet ski platforms, kayak launches, fish-cleaning stations, benches, and ADA-compliant gangways. We also integrate boat and PWC lifts sized for your vessel, with remote controls and maintenance-friendly rigging.
Our Proven Methods and Materials
Foundations use driven timber piles with cross-bracing, pile caps, and through-bolted connections. Framing is ledger-and-stringer with joist spacing sized for anticipated loads and accessories. We use galvanized connectors, hurricane straps, and pre-drilled fastener holes to prevent splitting.
Decking choices include pressure-treated pine, hardwoods like ipe, or composite surfaces such as Trex, TimberTech, or WearDeck. We apply non-slip finishes and recommend UV/waterproof sealers. Lighting, receptacles, and lift power are installed to NEC 555 standards with GFCI/GFPE protection.
Complex Conditions We’ve Mastered
We regularly rebuild storm-damaged wood piers, replace compromised pilings, and retrofit docks for hurricane-resistant performance. For soft or mucky bottoms, we adjust embedment and can add helical piles where soils demand extra capacity.
Shoreline stability matters. We tie docks into existing bulkheads, install vinyl sheet piling where required, and add geotextile fabric with riprap to resist erosion. In brackish areas, we use 316 stainless fasteners and piling wraps to extend service life.
Results and Timelines You Can Expect
Typical timelines run 2–4 weeks for small residential docks and 4–8 weeks for larger builds after permitting. Permit approvals often range from 2–6 weeks depending on jurisdiction and reviews. We provide schedule updates at key milestones so you always know what’s next.
After completion, you’ll receive a care plan: inspect annually, tighten hardware as needed, and re-seal every 12–24 months depending on exposure. We offer inspections and maintenance plans to keep your dock safe and looking great.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to build a dock on Lake Houston?
Yes. Most projects require a City of Houston Lake Houston Stationary/Floating Pier Permit and an annual pier license. Depending on location and scope, you may also need a Harris County Floodplain Development Permit and, if the work impacts navigable waters, a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Galveston District Section 10/404 authorization. We handle the paperwork, drawings, and inspections so your wood dock in Houston complies with local requirements.
How much does a wood dock cost per square foot in Houston?
Costs vary with water depth, access, piling size, decking choice, and add-ons like lifts or lighting. In the Houston area, many residential docks fall within a broad range per square foot, with fixed piling structures and hardwood or composite surfaces on the higher end. We provide a line-item estimate after a site visit, so you can see how design decisions affect budget and lifespan before you commit.
Is a floating dock or a piling dock better for Galveston Bay?
Open-bay conditions often favor well-braced piling docks because they resist wind, waves, and boat wake more reliably. Floating sections can work in protected areas or lagoon settings and are useful where water levels fluctuate. We evaluate fetch, wind exposure, and bottom conditions, then recommend a solution—sometimes a hybrid—that balances stability, access, maintenance, and budget for your specific site on Galveston Bay or Clear Lake.
What is the best wood for a dock in Texas?
For framing and piles, marine-grade treated southern yellow pine (MCA/ACQ or CCA where allowed) is common due to strength and availability. For decking, many owners choose treated pine for value or upgrade to ipe hardwood for durability and reduced maintenance. We’ll compare options based on saltwater vs. freshwater exposure, UV and wear, and whether you plan regular sealing to maximize service life in Houston’s climate.
What permits differ between Lake Houston, Clear Lake, and Lake Conroe?
Lake Houston typically involves City of Houston permits and annual licensing. Clear Lake and coastal areas may require Texas General Land Office easements and coordination with the USACE Galveston District. Lake Conroe projects often need SJRA residential dock licensing. Floodplain reviews can apply in multiple jurisdictions. We map your exact approvals at the start so timelines and requirements are clear before construction.
Can I add a boat lift to an existing wood dock?
Often yes. We assess pile capacity, framing, and clearance to integrate a boat lift or PWC lifts safely. Upgrades can involve adding driven piles, cross-bracing, or new brackets. Electrical work follows NEC 555 with GFCI/GFPE protection and proper bonding. We’ll size the lift for your hull and verify water depth, approach angles, and power supply to ensure smooth, reliable operation in Houston waters.
How long does it take to build a dock in Houston?
After permits, smaller residential docks typically take 2–4 weeks, while larger or more complex builds can run 4–8 weeks. Permit times vary by agency—plan for roughly 2–6 weeks depending on reviews and seasonal workload. We provide a detailed schedule, coordinate inspections, and keep you updated at each milestone so you know exactly when your dock will be ready for use.
How do I get hurricane-resistant design for my dock?
We design to ASCE 7 loads and specify driven piles with deeper embedment, cross-bracing, hurricane ties, and corrosion-resistant fasteners. In coastal areas, we can pursue TDI/TWIA windstorm documentation (WPI-8) for eligible boathouse elements. Additional measures—like piling wraps, riprap for scour control, and uplift-resistant roof connections—help wood docks in the Houston–Galveston region perform better during severe weather.
What electrical and lighting rules apply to docks?
Dock electrical systems must follow NEC Article 555, including GFCI or GFPE protection, watertight enclosures, proper grounding and bonding, and approved fixtures. Local electrical permits and inspections are typically required. We coordinate licensed electricians familiar with marina/dock requirements and can integrate low-glare LED lighting, convenience outlets, and lift power while minimizing shock risk and satisfying Houston-area inspectors.
What ADA considerations should a residential gangway include?
We aim for gentle slopes, stable transitions, and slip-resistant surfaces. Because water levels fluctuate, we design gangways with hinge points and landings to maintain practical access, targeting ADA/Access Board boating facility guidance where feasible. Handrails, toe boards, and appropriate widths improve safety for all users. We’ll tailor the solution to your site on Lake Houston, Clear Lake, or Lake Conroe.