Top 5 Things to Consider Before Starting Your Boat House Construction

I remember distinctly when I first considered building a boathouse. I was on the dock in the evening, watching the sun set, and it occurred to me: having a room literally on the water where I could shelter my boat, sit back, and perhaps even establish a small hangout area would be heaven. It was then that boat house construction began to germinate in my mind.

But here’s the catch: constructing a boat house isn’t merely wood, nails, and a nice view. There are plenty of choices to make prior to even setting down the first pile. And if I’ve found anything from conversing with veteran builders and observing friends get through it, it’s that preparing is half the battle.

So if you’re in the same boat (pun intended), here are the top five things that I think you should consider before launching into your own project.

1. Location, Location, Location

The very first huge question is easy: where do you want your boat house to reside?

Soon, I came to understand that it is not just a matter of picking a beautiful waterfront site. You will need to consider how deep the water is, whether the shoreline is intact enough, and how exposed to incoming waves and weather your dock is going to be. Some of the sites are naturally sheltered and are quiet locations, thus making the process of building less expensive. Additional pilings, or earth fill known as bulkheads, may need to be placed in other locations to address the changing currents and erosion.

It’s wise to consult with local professionals who are familiar with the ground. When I began making arrangements, I researched firms such as Dream Boat Docks since they had decades of experience with the idiosyncrasies near Texas waters. Having a professional who is familiar with the idiosyncrasies of your area can save you a lot of money and headaches in the future.

2. Permits and Regulations

I’ll be honest: I used to think you could just put up a boathouse on your own land without much red tape. Turns out, it’s not that simple.

Each place has its own regulations regarding waterfront building. You might need city, county, or even state permits. These regulations are about everything from how far your building can reach into the water to what materials you can use to how to not harm local flora and fauna.

Bypassing this step is not worth it. I know personally someone who had to destroy half of their boathouse because they did not follow the permit regulations. That is a position an individual does not want to be in. Previously, you could find a few moments to contact the local authorities and discuss whether your idea would be accepted.

It does not comprise the most exciting part of the process, but it legalizes, ensures the safety, and a progressive future.

3. Design and Functionality

This is where things become interesting. What do you want your boathouse to really do for you?

Some just get simple, a roof over the boat to cover it from the sun and rain. Others go wild, adding storage rooms, fishing decks, or even upper levels with lounge space and bars.

When I was considering my design, I knew I wanted a balance. I needed sufficient space for my boat and equipment, but I also envisioned myself hosting weekends with friends near the water. So functionality was just as important as appearance.

One tip I’d share is this: consider the future. If you’re like me, your requirements may expand. Later, you may choose to move into a larger boat, or be happy to have space when friends visit. Building with the future in focus today can help you avoid expensive redesigns later.

4. Materials Matter

The second major choice is what materials you’ll use.

Wood is the classic option and provides the timelessness & natural look to your boathouse. Not all wood is considered equal, however. You’ll need pressure-treated or marine-grade material that can take moisture, salt, and description of pests. Composite materials are more in demand as they are not only strong but also low-maintenance.

For roofing purposes, metal is a good choice since it will not rust and can withstand storms. Shingles can also be very attractive, but they will not last as long in a waterfront setting.

I’ve got to admit, I was intimidated at this part to begin with. But talking with builders and seeing examples, it became apparent how building materials can be made/installed long-lasting. Consider it’s your boathouse, which will receive sun, rain, wind & maybe even hurricanes. Quality materials now are like insurance for the future.

5. Budget and Timeline

Last but not least, let’s talk money and time.

Boat houses are not inexpensive, and prices can vary widely based on size, design, and materials. Then, of course, there are the weather delays and permit approvals to extend the timeline.

When I set my budget, I included some 20% extra to account for surprises. And you know what? I needed it. Between the upgrades in materials and some added extras, that buffer kept me from getting anxious when the bills came in.

My main takeaway here is: don’t rush it. Quality construction is a slow process. If a builder is promising something wildly too fast, that’s a red flag. It’s better to get the project done correctly than quickly.

Wrapping It Up

Constructing a boathouse is fun, but it’s something you don’t want to jump into unprepared. The five items I’ve discussed, location, permits, design, materials, and budget, are the foundation of an orderly process.

In retrospect, I’m thankful that I did my research prior to beginning. And were I to repeat the experience, I’d likely rely on experts even more. Companies such as Dream Boat Docks, which have been around for decades, recognize the nuances that you and I may overlook. With such guidance as a resource, all the difference between a headache project and a dream one can be made.

So if you’re perched on your dock, fantasizing about the ultimate boat house like I used to do, take the time to consider these items first. It’ll make your boat house construction smoother, smarter, and a whole lot more fun.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not about constructing a building, it’s about crafting a place where memories will be made, year after year.