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WHY? The demand for waterfront improvements is growing as boating increases in popularity and as the incredibly high value of waterfront property encourages
owners to both protect and embellish that value. There is something out of balance between a house that is now worth $800,000 (or a multiple of that) and the lack of a dock, a rotted, unsafe dock, and/or annual
shoreline erosion. At the same time, marine construction projects are facing increasing regulatory obstacles. In some towns (Chatham, for example) literally no new docks are being permitted! It behooves homeowners
to assess their options now, as those options will assuredly become more limited as time passes.
IT'S COMPLICATED!
Whether repairing, replacing or building new structures, there are few construction challenges more complicated than building on or near today's waterfronts. In addition to determining design, materials and placement, you have to deal with the approval process. We have found the following sequence of events works best:
- Discuss your needs and budget with a reliable marine construction company, preferably one with local experience. Companies like Cape Cod Docks
can advise on alternatives and costs, which options will require formal engineering drawings and town/state approvals (and which do not), and how to find cost-effective engineering firms.
- If needed, have a local engineering firm, working with a marine construction company, develop detailed plans. The engineering firm will be responsible for securing the necessary permits. You may or may not
choose to be present at permitting hearings.
- Have your marine construction company (hopefully Cape Cod Docks
… ) submit a detailed quotation based on the approved drawings. We will also discuss options which the permits may allow – some to add functionality and beauty, others to save money.
TYPES: The most common marine construction project around the Cape and Islands is the fixed pier with ramp and floating dock. Lakefront construction
often uses totally fixed structures, but the tides require floating docks at nearly all salt water sites. These docks may include walkways, bridges, seating areas, stairs and ladders. The floating docks may
be held in place by permanently installed wooden pilings, or by seasonally removed metal posts, depending on the characteristics of seasonal water action and on town requirements. In Florida you can see many docks
with boat lifts, dock roofing, and boat houses. On tradition-bound, conservation-conscious Cape Cod and the Islands, these designs are generally not allowed, nor are overly large floating docks.
Of increasing demand are sea walls and bulkheads
to prevent future property erosion. Approvals are often difficult, but options should be seriously explored if you see your property becoming a bit smaller after each storm. Don't forget, storm activity is projected to increase in the next few years.
CAPE COD DOCKS, INC., We can handle nearly every type of marine construction project. Give us a call to informally discuss your needs, and view some of our
projects under "OUR WORK" on this Internet site.
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