Common Dock & Boat Lift Mistakes We See — and How to Avoid Them

Over the years, the team at Beach Bumz has seen just about every dock and boat lift setup imaginable. Some work beautifully for years — others cause frustration, unexpected costs, or limit how people actually use their waterfront.

The good news? Most dock and boat lift issues can be avoided with the right planning and product selection before you buy. Below are some of the most common mistakes we see — and how to make smarter choices from the start.

1. Choosing Price Over Fit

One of the biggest mistakes is choosing a dock or boat lift based solely on price. While upfront cost matters, the cheapest option often lacks adaptability, durability, or long-term usability.

A dock should fit:

• Your shoreline

• Your water depth

• How you use your waterfront

A slightly higher-quality system often lasts longer, performs better, and prevents costly upgrades later.

2. Ignoring Water Level Changes

Water levels don’t stay the same year-round. Seasonal changes, rainfall, and long-term lake fluctuations can all impact how a dock performs.

Fixed docks may work well in consistent depths but can become problematic when water levels drop or rise significantly. Floating systems, like those offered by CanDock, adapt to changing conditions and reduce stress on the structure.

Failing to plan for water fluctuation often leads to:

• Poor dock height

• Difficult boat access

• Premature wear

3. Buying a Dock Without Considering Future Use

Many waterfront owners buy a dock for their current needs, not realizing how quickly those needs change.

Common future upgrades include:

• Adding a boat lift

• Storing personal watercraft

• Creating a swim platform

• Adding seating or entertainment space

Our dock systems make expansion and reconfiguration far easier than traditional wood and standard aluminum layouts.

4. Overbuilding (or Underbuilding) the Dock

Bigger isn’t always better — and smaller isn’t always cheaper.

Overbuilt docks can:

• Increase unnecessary cost

• Be harder to manage or remove

• Take up valuable shoreline space

Underbuilt docks may lack stability, safety, or functionality. The right dock size balances usability, footprint, and long-term flexibility.

5. Mismatching the Boat Lift to the Watercraft

Boat lifts are not one-size-fits-all. Choosing the wrong lift capacity or style can lead to:

• Uneven lifting

• Added stress on the hull

• Reduced lifespan of the lift

Manufacturers like ShoreStation and FLOE offer lift systems designed for specific watercraft sizes, weights, and water conditions — but only when matched correctly.

6. Skipping Professional Guidance

A dock or lift is a long-term investment. Skipping expert input often leads to avoidable issues that show up after installation.

At Beach Bumz, we help customers evaluate:

• Shoreline layout

• Water depth & fluctuation

• Intended use

• Compatibility between docks and lifts

Even small planning adjustments can make a huge difference in long-term satisfaction.

Final Thoughts

Most dock and boat lift problems don’t come from bad products — they come from rushed decisions or missing information.

By planning ahead, thinking long-term, and choosing solutions that match how you actually use your waterfront, you can avoid common pitfalls and enjoy your dock for years to come.

Appointments are available 7 days a week, both in-store and remotely.