Docks of the Bay Blog

From the Dock

Tips, guides, and expert advice on dock building, maintenance, and waterfront living along Virginia's Chesapeake Bay.

Latest Articles

Dock Repair vs. Replace: How to Know Which You Need

Dock Repair vs. Replace: How to Know Which You Need

How to evaluate whether your dock needs repairs or a full replacement — the structural warning signs, cost considerations, and what our inspectors look for.

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Best Dock Materials for Brackish Water in Virginia

Best Dock Materials for Brackish Water in Virginia

What materials hold up best in the Chesapeake Bay's brackish water environment — and what to avoid. From contractors who've built hundreds of docks in Virginia tidal water.

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Do You Need a Permit for a Dock in Virginia's Northern Neck?

Do You Need a Permit for a Dock in Virginia's Northern Neck?

A plain-language guide to dock permits in Virginia — who issues them, what triggers a permit requirement, typical timelines, and how to navigate the process.

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How Much Does a Dock Cost in Virginia? (2026 Guide)

How Much Does a Dock Cost in Virginia? (2026 Guide)

A realistic breakdown of dock construction costs in Virginia's Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula — materials, labor, permits, and what affects your final price.

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CanDock vs. EZ Dock: Modular Floating Dock Systems Compared

CanDock vs. EZ Dock: Modular Floating Dock Systems Compared

An in-depth comparison of CanDock and EZ Dock modular floating dock systems covering materials, durability, weight capacity, pricing, and best use cases for Virginia waterfront owners.

Floating DocksCanDock
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The Complete Guide to Floating Docks on the Chesapeake Bay

The Complete Guide to Floating Docks on the Chesapeake Bay

Everything you need to know about floating docks for the Chesapeake Bay — types, costs, floating vs fixed comparisons, anchoring methods, and why modular CanDock systems are the smart choice for Virginia waterfront owners.

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How Much Does a Dock Cost in Virginia? 2026 Price Guide

How Much Does a Dock Cost in Virginia? 2026 Price Guide

Honest pricing for dock construction, boat lifts, bulkheads, seawalls, and more on Virginia's Chesapeake Bay. 2026 cost guide from a Class A contractor with 24+ years of experience.

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How to Choose the Right Dock Material for Virginia's Chesapeake Bay

How to Choose the Right Dock Material for Virginia's Chesapeake Bay

Pressure-treated wood, composite, or PVC? Learn which dock decking material performs best in the Chesapeake Bay's saltwater environment, and what Virginia dock owners need to know before building or re-decking.

Dock MaterialsChesapeake Bay
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Virginia Riparian Rights Explained: What Waterfront Property Owners Need to Know

Virginia Riparian Rights Explained: What Waterfront Property Owners Need to Know

A practical guide to riparian rights in Virginia. Learn what waterfront property rights mean for dock building, shoreline use, and navigating permits on the Chesapeake Bay and Northern Neck.

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WearDeck vs. Trex: Which Dock Decking Is Better for Saltwater?

WearDeck vs. Trex: Which Dock Decking Is Better for Saltwater?

Comparing WearDeck and Trex for dock decking in saltwater environments. Learn why marine-grade PVC decking outperforms residential composite on docks, piers, and boathouses in the Chesapeake Bay.

Dock DeckingWearDeck
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