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Dock Builders in Fort Lauderdale
Leading provider of dock construction services
With over 165 miles of waterways and direct access to the Atlantic Ocean, Fort Lauderdale is one of Florida’s top locations for dock construction. Whether you’re planning a residential boat dock on the Intracoastal, a commercial marina on the New River, or a custom fishing platform along a canal, every project needs accurate cost estimation and materials planning.
At Estimate Florida Consulting, we specialize in providing detailed dock construction cost estimates, 3D visualizations, contractor scope reviews, and complete material takeoffs for projects across Fort Lauderdale and surrounding Broward County areas.
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Dock Construction Cost Per Square Foot in Fort Lauderdale
Dock construction in Fort Lauderdale typically ranges between $20 and $50 per square foot, with the average coming in around $40 per square foot, including both materials and labor. Projects located in deeper water or saltwater zones will typically cost more due to piling depth, marine hardware needs, and labor intensity. Total project costs typically range from $2,000 to $22,600, depending on the square footage.
| Square Footage | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 120 sq. ft. | $2,000 – $5,500 |
| 150 sq. ft. | $2,300 – $6,500 |
| 180 sq. ft. | $3,000 – $7,500 |
| 210 sq. ft. | $3,350 – $8,800 |
| 240 sq. ft. | $3,900 – $9,900 |
| 300 sq. ft. | $5,500 – $14,000 |
| 360 sq. ft. | $5,800 – $15,400 |
| 420 sq. ft. | $6,800 – $17,800 |
| 480 sq. ft. | $7,500 – $20,000 |
| 540 sq. ft. | $9,000 – $22,600 |
Dock Construction Cost
Due to material price hikes, higher insurance coverage, increased demand for marine engineering, and hurricane-rated hardware requirements, dock construction costs in Florida have risen. Below is the updated cost breakdown by dock type and square foot:
Dock Type | Cost Per Sq. Ft. (Installed) | Notes |
Pressure-Treated Wood | $78 – $108 | Most affordable, but needs more maintenance |
Composite Deck Dock | $102 – $132 | UV-resistant, splinter-free, low maintenance |
Floating Modular Dock | $108 – $144 | Tidal-friendly; ideal for freshwater & canals |
PVC/Vinyl Marine Docking | $120 – $168 | Great in saltwater zones, long-lasting |
Aluminum Dock System | $144 – $192 | Commercial-grade, corrosion-proof |
Concrete Dock or Platform | $168 – $240+ | Public use, marinas, long-term investment |
Notes:
- Prices include pilings, structure framing, decking, labor, marine hardware, and installation.
- Prices exclude lighting, lifts, and special permits.
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Dock Cost by Type
Fort Lauderdale dock construction involves compliance with marine engineering standards and coastal building codes. Here’s a breakdown of average installed costs by dock type (including framing, decking, pilings, labor, and marine hardware):
| Dock Type | Average Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Floating Dock | $25 – $50 |
| Piling Dock | $30 – $60 |
| Pipe Dock | $30 – $65 |
| Wheel-In / Roll-In Dock | $40 – $70 |
| Crib Dock | $40 – $60 |
| Lift-Up Dock | $40 – $60 |
| Modular Dock | $50 – $70 |
| Suspension Dock | $60 – $120 |
Dock Cost Estimator by Size and Material
Here’s a detailed estimator based on common Florida dock sizes and materials with 2025 pricing:
| Dock Size | PT Wood Cost | Composite Deck Cost | Aluminum Dock Cost | Concrete Platform Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10’ x 10’ | $6,500 – $9,000 | $8,500 – $11,500 | $11,000 – $14,500 | $13,500 – $18,000 |
| 12’ x 20’ | $14,500 – $20,000 | $17,000 – $23,500 | $22,000 – $29,000 | $27,000 – $36,000 |
| 15’ x 30’ | $24,000 – $34,000 | $28,000 – $39,000 | $36,000 – $46,000 | $42,000 – $58,000 |
| 20’ x 40’ | $38,000 – $54,000 | $45,000 – $62,000 | $58,000 – $76,000 | $72,000 – $88,000+ |
Costs may vary based on site access, water depth, permit fees, railing systems, and custom accessories.
Dock Decking Cost by Material
The type of decking material you choose plays a major role in the overall cost of dock installation. Options vary from budget-friendly pressure-treated wood to high-end, durable materials like concrete. On average, homeowners in Fort Lauderdale spend about $50 per square foot, including labor. When choosing a decking material, it’s important to consider both longevity and aesthetics. Below is a general price range per square foot for popular decking options, including full installation, starting from $15 up to $600, depending on the material and design complexity.
| Material | Cost per Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|
| Pine | $15 – $50 |
| Plastic | $25 – $80 |
| Cedar | $30 – $80 |
| Vinyl | $30 – $80 |
| Pressure-Treated Wood | $30 – $90 |
| Aluminum | $35 – $95 |
| Hardwood | $40 – $100 |
| Concrete | $220 – $600 |
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Dock Configuration Options
While a straight dock that extends out over the water is the most common style, many other configurations are available to meet specific needs and preferences. Some docks start with a slim walkway that opens into a wider platform and may narrow again near a boat slip.
For those with multiple boats or customized usage needs, docks can be built in a variety of shapes—including F, I, L, T, U, E, or H—to accommodate slips, platforms, and walkways at different points. Other options include patio-style platforms for lounging or harbor-style docks that run parallel to the shoreline with perpendicular extensions.
The right dock layout depends on its intended use. If you plan to entertain, fish, or relax by the water, a larger platform area is ideal. If your dock is purely for boat access, a simpler, narrower design may be more practical.
Dock Costs vs Boat Slip
Although docks and boat slips are often used together, they have distinct roles. A dock is the main structure that extends over the water, while a boat slip is more like a dedicated parking spot designed to hold a boat securely in place. Slips are particularly ideal for smaller watercraft such as fishing boats, kayaks, and small sailboats.
Boat slips can be built as part of a new dock or added to an existing marina. They usually range from 25 to 50 feet in length, with installation costs typically falling between $1,200 and $6,000. In comparison, the cost to construct a dock ranges from $8,000 to $27,000, depending on the materials used, overall size, and design complexity.
Dock vs Pier Cost
The main distinction between a dock and a pier lies in their purpose. A dock is designed primarily as a parking area for boats, offering a secure space for mooring. A pier, on the other hand, functions more like a bridge or walkway that extends from the land out over the water. Piers are generally not used for boat mooring and are often built from durable materials like concrete or steel.
Piers are typically constructed to provide access to deeper water or to connect with a dock set farther offshore. Building a pier usually costs between $47,000 and $80,000, depending on the length and materials used. In contrast, dock construction tends to range from $8,000 to $27,000, based on design, materials, and size.
Boat slips—which serve as individual berthing spaces for boats—can be added to a newly built dock or as part of a marina system. These slips generally range from 25 to 50 feet long, with installation costs between $1,200 and $6,000.
Dock Repair Costs in Fort Lauderdale
From storm damage to rot and corrosion, dock repairs in Fort Lauderdale are quite common. Here’s a breakdown of current repair pricing:
| Repair Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Replace Deck Boards (wood/composite) | $44 – $72 per sq. ft. |
| Replace Pilings (wood/concrete) | $1,045 – $2,200 per piling |
| Replace Joists or Beams | $1,650 – $3,850+ per section |
| Replace or Add Floating Blocks | $550 – $1,320 each |
| Lift Motor or Hardware Replacement | $1,320 – $3,080 |
| Total Dock Surface Resurfacing | $7,150 – $15,400 |
Dock Maintenance Costs & Schedules
Here’s an updated yearly maintenance budget for docks in Fort Lauderdale, designed to protect against UV damage, algae buildup, wood rot, and storm erosion.:
Service | Frequency | Cost Estimate |
Power Washing & Algae Removal | Twice a year | $2.75 – $4.40 per sq. ft. |
Sealing/Staining Wood Decking | Annually | $3.30 – $6.60 per sq. ft. |
Fastener & Hardware Inspection | Every 6 months | $275 – $660 |
Piling Wrap Replacement | Every 3–5 years | $110 – $220 per piling |
Full Dock Maintenance Package | Annual Contract | $1,320 – $3,850+ |
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Dock Lighting, Boat Lifts & Accessory Costs
Your dock isn’t fully functional without essential add-ons like lighting, lifts, ladders, and mooring tools. Below is cost breakdown pricing:
Add-On | Cost (Installed) |
Solar Lights (6–8 units) | $880 – $1,320 |
Wired Dock Lighting | $3,300 – $6,600 |
6,000 lb. Boat Lift | $6,050 – $9,900 |
Aluminum Ladder | $385 – $825 |
Jet Ski Platform | $1,980 – $3,520 |
Fort Lauderdale Dock Projects – Examples
Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal Marina
Scope: 350 ft. aluminum floating dock with composite deck
Includes: 6 slips, LED lighting, pedestal power
Total Cost: $375,000
Las Olas Canal Residential Dock
Size: 12’ x 20’ with vinyl decking and platform
Cost: $18,900
Features: Ladder, solar lighting, kayak slip
Permit & Regulation Estimation
We help you estimate timelines and costs related to:
- Broward County Coastal Permits
- Florida DEP Environmental Compliance
- Army Corps of Engineers Review
- Navigable Waterway Impact Studies
Seagrass, manatee, and turtle zone compliance
Residential vs Commercial Dock Costs in Fort Lauderdale
Here’s the updated comparison between residential and commercial dock features:
Feature | Residential | Commercial |
Cost per sq. ft. | $71.50 to $154 | $132 to $220+ |
Materials | Wood, composite | Aluminum, concrete |
Permits | Local | State, DEP, Army Corps |
Add-ons | Ladders, solar lights | Pedestals, fire lines, gangways |
Why Choose Estimate Florida Consulting for Your Dock Project?
We’re your go-to cost estimating team for accurate dock project budgeting in Fort Lauderdale. Whether you’re a homeowner, contractor, or commercial developer, we provide:
- Detailed cost breakdowns using 2025 Florida pricing
- Contractor scope and quantity takeoffs
- Compliance and permitting support
- Maintenance cost planning and repair estimates
- 3D rendering for better project visualization
Question Answer
Frequently Asked Question
The choice of materials for dock construction is critical for durability and performance. Common materials include pressure-treated wood for affordability, composite decking for low maintenance, aluminum for corrosion resistance, and concrete for high-load applications. The material selection depends on factors like water salinity, exposure to elements, and intended use.
Environmental factors such as water salinity, tidal movement, and potential storm activity in regions like Florida influence dock design. In coastal areas, corrosion-resistant materials like aluminum or vinyl are ideal. For areas prone to hurricanes, storm-resistant structures with secure pilings and heavy-duty framing are crucial.
Permit requirements vary by location and the scale of the project. Typically, local municipalities issue permits for residential docks, while state agencies, including the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Army Corps of Engineers, regulate construction for commercial docks. It’s essential to check local zoning regulations and obtain necessary environmental permits to ensure compliance.
Dock designs are shifting toward more sustainable, low-maintenance options like composite decking, which offers durability and resistance to environmental wear. There is also a growing trend for multi-functional docks that include boat lifts, floating docks, and integrated solar lighting. Additionally, modular designs that can be easily expanded or reconfigured are gaining popularity.
Dock size and layout depend on the intended use, water conditions, and available space. For residential purposes, a 10' x 10' dock may suffice, while commercial docks may require much larger platforms to accommodate more boats or equipment. Your design should also take into account the water depth, the type of boat, and safety considerations.
Dock repair costs are influenced by the extent of damage, materials involved, and the type of maintenance needed. Common repairs include replacing deck boards, pilings, or joists, and the cost can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the size and complexity of the issue. Environmental factors such as storm damage or rot can also increase repair costs.
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