Find answers to some of Lakestyle’s most frequently asked questions (FAQ)
WHAT TYPE OF MATERIAL IS RECOMMENDED FOR THE DOCK SECTIONS?
This depends on your preference. Choose from cedar, composite or aluminum decking when building a dock; never use treated wood.
1. Cedar Dock
Using classic cedar for the dock frame and the deck boards is cost efficient and looks great. Classic cedar is also light in weight, which makes installation and removal of the dock sections fast and easy! Our premium quality kiln dried cedar decking is available in our DIY kits, as well as our prebuilt dock sections.
2. Composite Dock
Composite decking is another great option. The non-porous surface of composite decking will look brand-new for years to come! The slip resistant surface stays cool to the touch, with no exposed fasteners. The beautiful wood grain finish is easy to maintain, as you can pressure wash and scrub this material with ease. The composite decking is available in a variety of colours. Our pre-built dock sections can come in removable 4 foot pieces (x2 for an 8′ dock section) or 5 foot pieces (x2 for a 10′ dock section), making the install and seasonal removal that much easier!
3. Aluminum Dock
A third option is our premium aluminum decking. With its non-slip Teflon/polyester powder coating finish, our aluminum decking retains its crisp and clear appearance for the life of the dock. It stays cool to the touch, even in full sun and is ultra durable. Our premium aluminum decking comes in 8 and 10 foot sections.
4. Treated Wood Dock
We strongly advise against using treated wood for dock building. In addition to being harmful to the environment, treated wood cracks and splinters severely over a relatively short time and can be very heavy during installation and removal of the dock sections.
WILL YOUR DOCK PARTS AND ACCESSORIES WORK WITH OTHER TYPES OF DOCKS?
While, most dock lights and dock accessories can be attached to any docks, the Tommy Docks dock system is an integrated system designed to work exclusively together. Please contact us to explore possible adaptations and customizations.
CAN I INSTALL MY TOMMY DOCKS BOAT DOCK MYSELF?
Yes, full dock installation instructions come with the supplies when shipped. The Tommy Docks interlocking system and plans are designed to be easy and efficient to install.
WHERE DO YOU SHIP TO?
Lakestyle ships from the entire Tommy Docks product catalogue, including boat dock kits, dock hardware, floating docks and dock accessories, dock lights and ladders across Canada. Most products are shipped directly from our warehouse in Alberta.
We are currently not selling products into the United States.
HOW ARE THE SHIPPING COSTS DETERMINED?
The freight cost will vary depending on order weight and shipping distance. The actual shipping charge will be the best rate available.
Lakestyle ships primarily to locations in Western Canada, for additional locations contact us and we will do our best to get the products to you at the very best price.
HOW ARE ORDERS SHIPPED?
Most orders placed in the on-line store will ship by small parcel carriers. For larger orders or for alternative shipping arrangements, please contact our Customer Service Department at [email protected].
HOW SOON WILL I RECEIVE MY NEW PRODUCTS?
Lakestyle will do its best to keep most dock kits and items in stock, reducing the amount of time you have to wait for your order. Shipping time will depend on the size of the order and the time of year. We will do our best to have products to you within 3-4 weeks. Should there be a delay we will contact you and keep you informed. Products that are in stock will be shipped from our warehouse within 48 hours.
WHAT TYPE OF WARRANTY DOES LAKESTYLE OFFER ON DOCKS & DOCK ACCESSORIES?
All Tommy Docks products are covered under the standard Tommy Docks warranty. Please click here to see the standard Tommy Docks warranty.
CAN I LEAVE MY DOCK IN OVER WINTER?
The Tommy Docks system is a free standing structure. Ice that builds up around the dock could bend, twist or buckle the dock. This is especially true if the ice rises into the dock from underneath or if windy conditions cause the ice to move around. If there is ice on the water body, the dock should be removed. View our How To Guides for winter dock take-down instructions.
WHAT SIZE COMPONENTS SHOULD I USE, THE NORMAL DUTY OR THE HEAVY DUTY DOCK BRACKETS?
Tommy Docks components are offered in “normal” duty or “heavy” duty configurations. The heavy duty post diameter components are generally recommended, as they will last longer and will better withstand regular wear and tear. Contact us and we can help you decide what item is best for your individual situation.
IS ALL HARDWARE INCLUDED WITH MY TOMMY DOCKS BOAT DOCK KIT?
All dock kits come with necessary brackets and hardware to assemble the dock design. Any additional fasteners, such as for bumpers, docks lights, attaching floats, etc. are not included. Lakestyle recommends using stainless steel fasteners wherever possible.