How to Choose the Best Material for Your Dock – Insights from SeaBee in Marco Island

When you live in Southwest Florida — especially areas like Marco Island, Naples, Bonita Springs, Goodland, or Isles of Capri — having a sturdy, reliable dock isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity. Between salty air, strong UV rays, daily use, and the occasional hurricane, your dock takes a beating. So the material you choose matters more than you might think.

At SeaBee General Contractor, we’ve helped countless homeowners and waterfront property managers throughout the region choose the right materials based on location, use, and long-term performance. Here’s what we think every boat owner or waterfront property owner should know.

1. Understand Your Dock’s Purpose First

Before choosing any material, think about how your dock will be used.

  • Is it a residential dock used occasionally for small boats or kayaks?
  • Or will it see heavy traffic — like jet skis, fishing gear, or guests every weekend?
  • Will it need to support a boat lift?
  • Are you thinking about adding lighting or railings?

These questions will help determine the type of material best suited to your needs. For instance, a low-maintenance composite might be better for year-round use in Naples or Fort Myers, while pressure-treated wood might be more cost-effective for a simple dock in Goodland.

A. Pressure-Treated Wood

This is the classic dock material. It’s strong, familiar, and widely available.
Pros:

  • Cost-effective
  • Easy to repair or replace individual boards
  • Visually appealing in natural settings

Cons:

  • Requires regular maintenance
  • Vulnerable to rot and splintering in saltwater
  • Fades and warps over time in Florida sun

Wood can still be a good option in Bonita Springs or Golden Gate, but we recommend applying sealants and scheduling routine inspections — especially after storm season.

B. Composite Decking (like Fiberon)

At SeaBee, we frequently recommend Fiberon composite decking — especially for homeowners in Marco Island and Naples looking for longevity with less upkeep.

Pros:

  • Low maintenance — no staining or sealing
  • Resistant to mold, rot, and insects
  • Comes with long warranties (25–50 years)
  • Slip-resistant surface — safer for kids and pets
  • UV-stable colors that don’t fade fast

Cons:

  • Higher upfront cost
  • Must be installed correctly to allow for drainage and expansion

Composite is ideal for those who want a modern, clean look without the hassle of yearly upkeep. It’s one of the best materials for coastal climates like Isles of Capri or Cape Coral.

C. PVC or Plastic Decking

Some waterfront properties in Fort Myers and Estero opt for plastic-based decking materials.

Pros:

  • Fully water-resistant
  • Easy to clean
  • Doesn’t require painting or staining

Cons:

  • Can be slippery when wet
  • Prone to warping in direct heat
  • Lacks the natural look of wood or composite

PVC can be a good choice for areas that flood frequently or have high water levels year-round.

D. Aluminum Docking

You won’t see many aluminum docks in residential Marco Island neighborhoods, but some commercial or industrial properties use them for their extreme durability and rust resistance.

Pros:

  • Lightweight but strong
  • Rust-resistant
  • Long lifespan

Cons:

  • More expensive
  • Industrial look — not everyone likes the appearance
  • Noisy when walked on

We rarely recommend this option for homes, but it can make sense for commercial docks near Collier Bay or marinas in Naples.

3. Consider the Environment

Here in Southwest Florida, docks aren’t just exposed to water — they’re exposed to:

  • Salt spray
  • High humidity
  • Intense sun
  • Storm surges and hurricanes

Materials that work up north don’t always hold up here. At SeaBee, we build docks that are designed for Florida’s conditions, using stainless steel hardware, UV-stable materials, and composite decking built to last.

4. Don’t Forget Local Regulations

In areas like Marco Island, Collier County, and Naples, there are strict building codes for waterfront construction. Certain materials or designs may require permits, especially for:

  • Protected mangrove zones
  • Rip rap or seawall installations
  • Multi-slip docks or large boat lifts

SeaBee General Contractor is fully licensed (CGC 1536998) and experienced in local permitting and marine construction laws. We make sure your dock is built legally, safely, and to code.

5. Final Thoughts from SeaBee

If you want a dock that lasts — not just five years, but 15 or 25 — don’t cut corners on materials. What seems cheaper now could cost more in the long run.

At SeaBee, we help homeowners in Marco Island, Naples, Bonita Springs, and surrounding areas compare all material options, weigh the pros and cons, and make the best decision based on their goals, budget, and long-term plans.

📍 SeaBee General Contractor – Your Local Marine Construction Experts

Location:
933 N Collier Blvd, Marco Island, FL 34145
Phone: (239) 642-0116
Website: www.SeaBeeMarineConstruction.com

Thinking about a new dock, re-decking project, or upgrade?
Let SeaBee General Contractor help you build it right from the start. Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s make your waterfront dreams a reality — with the right materials, the right look, and a build that lasts.

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