When it comes to accessing your boat dock, you’ve got two main options: a ramp vs. a gangway. But which one is right for you?
Ramps and gangways each have unique pros and cons depending on your specific situation. As an industry leader in marine products, Carolina Waterworks, Inc. we carry both residential and commercial dock ramps and gangways. Check out this comprehensive overview to help you decide whether you need a dock ramp, gangway, or both!
Ramps and gangways have some similar functions but different advantages, which can help narrow down what product you ultimately use for your dock.
How do you choose between a ramp and a gangway for your boat dock? Here are a few factors to consider when trying to decide:
Let’s get into the key differences between ramps and gangways.
A ramp is essentially a sloped surface that connects two levels–the shore and the dock–and is suitable for complex terrain. It allows you to easily walk, roll, or cart gear from land to water. Ramps typically attach to the dock with hinges or brackets, which allow them to adjust to changing water levels. Some ramps also have transition plates or rollers to create a smooth transition.
Marine-grade aluminum is the most popular choice for boat dock ramps. It’s lightweight, durable, and corrosion-resistant to protect against the harsh outdoor and marine elements. Plus, aluminum ramps are easy to install and adjust as needed.
Wooden ramps are a classic choice, but they require extensive maintenance if you plan to use them all year round.
There are plenty of perks to using a ramp for your boat dock. Ramps are:
A ramp is an excellent choice if you have a relatively stable shoreline and water level. It’s a simple, cost-effective way to get from land to water. Ramps are great for connecting steep shorelines and banks to your floating dock or gangway. They provide easy access and a seamless transition from land to water. They’re also easy to install and maintain.
Here’s where ramps face some challenges:
If you’re dealing with choppy water, big waves, or drastic water level changes, a ramp might not be the best fit. They’re also not ideal for long distances; if you need easier access to span more than a few feet, a gangway might be a better choice.
A gangway is essentially a portable bridge that connects your dock to the shore. It’s typically longer and narrower than a ramp, with handrails on either side for safety.
Gangways are hinged at the dock end, which allows them to pivot up and down with changing water levels. The shore end may rest on a bulkhead, seawall, or pier, or it may be suspended above the ground.
To use a gangway, you simply walk across like you would a bridge. The railings and handrails provide stability and support, especially in wet or windy conditions.
Aluminum residential and commercial gangways are strong and weather-resistant.
Just like ramps, wooden gangways offer a classic look but require more upkeep. Steel gangways are incredibly durable but heavy and prone to corrosion.
Gangways offer a number of benefits:
If you have to deal with choppy water, a gangway is an intelligent choice. The handrails are also a major plus for accessibility and safety; they are perfect for longer distances and floating docks. Plus, gangways come with handrails for added user safety. They’re a nice choice for public or commercial docks where accessibility is key.
Of course, gangways have their downsides too:
So, when considering a ramp vs. gangway, which makes the most sense for your particular water environment? Let’s weigh your options.
As discussed, ramps are best for short distances and relatively stable water levels. They’re also more affordable and easier to install than gangways.
Gangways, on the other hand, are ideal for longer spans and rougher water conditions. They provide a safer, more stable walking surface and are easier to adjust for changing water levels.
One of the biggest factors to consider when choosing between a ramp and a gangway is water level fluctuation. If your water levels change drastically throughout the year, a gangway is probably a better choice.
Gangways are designed to pivot up and down with changing water levels to maintain a safe, stable walking surface even as the water rises and falls. Conversely, ramps are more rigid structures and may become submerged or exposed as water levels change.
Another important consideration is the type and size of your dock. If you have a small, narrow dock, a ramp may be better than a gangway.
Ramps are typically wider than gangways, so they can take up less space on your dock. They’re also easier to install and remove, which can be a plus if you need to store your dock in the off-season.
If you have a larger dock or a floating dock, a gangway may be a better choice. Gangways are designed to attach to floating docks and can more easily adjust to changing water levels than ramps.
Of course, budget is always a factor when it comes to boat dock accessories. Ramps are generally more affordable than gangways, both in terms of materials and installation.
However, it’s essential to consider the long-term costs as well. A high-quality gangway may cost more upfront, but it can save you money on maintenance and repairs over time.
Ultimately, the best choice for your budget will depend on your specific needs and priorities. Don’t be afraid to invest in quality materials and construction – your boat dock is a long-term investment, and it pays to do it right the first time.
Look for quality materials like marine-grade aluminum, slip-resistant decking options, and durable, weather-resistant finishes. A little extra upfront cost will save you big in the long run.
Finally, consider the ease of installation and maintenance when choosing between a ramp and a gangway. Ramps are generally easier to install than gangways, especially if you’re handy with tools.
However, gangways may be easier to maintain over time. Because they’re designed to adjust to changing water levels, they’re less likely to become damaged or submerged than ramps.
No matter which option you pick, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and maintenance. A little TLC goes a long way when it comes to keeping your boat dock safe and functional for years to come.
Our marine-grade aluminum docks and gangways can withstand harsh marine environments. Our commercial and residential dock ramps and gangways feature rugged construction and a finely sculpted design in a range of decking materials and custom sizes: aluminum, ipe, poly, and composite. They are ideal for both residential and commercial applications.
Each Carolina Waterworks, Inc. gangway features two dock wheels on one end and a hinged plate on the other. This ensures quiet operation. They come complete and ready to install with rollers and a polymer-coated hinge pin. Additional benefits of choosing Carolina Waterworks, Inc., include:
When you choose a Carolina Waterworks, Inc. ramp or gangway, you benefit from over 30 years of experience in the marine industry on your project.
No matter which route you choose, investing in a quality ramp or gangway is crucial for ensuring safe and easy access to your boat.
Still not sure which direction you should go? Give us a call! We are a quality manufacturer of dock floats, commercial and residential gangways, floating docks, buoys, and Safe Haven drive-on boat and jet ski lifts. Through constant innovations and high quality standards, we provide marine products that are safe, easy to use, and low maintenance. We’d love to help you out with all of your marine product needs.
Happy boating!
Which is the better choice – a floating dock or a stationary dock? Carolina Waterworks believes that only YOU have the answer, based on your individual boating needs and environment. To find that answer, and to make a smart buying decision, it is helpful to consider the features of each dock style and see how they align with your priorities. Carolina Waterworks is here to help!
Boat docks, made of various materials such as aluminum, wood, or composites, are placed along banks or shores to help boaters and swimmers make the transition from water to land, and vice versa.
Docks are constructed in two modes: floating and stationary. Stationary docks rest on vertical pilings driven into the lake, river, or ocean floor. Floating docks are buoyed by airtight cubes or drums below the decking, called dock floats. Floating docks are held in place by lines or cables that connect the dock to the shore or the floor or bed of the body of water.
Boaters must choose between constructing a floating dock or a stationary dock on their property. Boating professionals, enthusiasts, and your neighbors along the lake will all offer their opinions, but the decision should be based on your real-world considerations, such as the following.
Is your body of water shallow or deep? Or does it fluctuate between the two? A stationary dock can be installed to meet shallow or deep conditions. Water that is too deep can present a problem, however, in that the pilings required begin to get pricey in terms of materials and labor. Water of fluctuating depth can also bring challenges for a stationary dock. When the water level drops, a stationary dock can necessitate a longer climb for boaters and swimmers. When the water rises your dock may be submerged, which results in muddy cleanup and potential damage to any electrical components.
High, low, or in between, a floating dock will adjust with the changing water level. This offers convenient and consistent ingress and egress for the boater and swimmer. However, if the water level drops low enough, the weight of your floating dock could cause stress on your floats if they contact the lake or riverbed. Water that rises too high may cause excess tension on the lines securing your floating dock in place.
Finally, consider the boating traffic. How busy is your waterway? More boats mean more wake, even if they obey the speed limit. The floating dock may pitch and rock, while the stationary dock will barely feel the effect. The same caution also applies in the case of storms and other bad weather.
In short, you may find that a stationary deck is better suited to shallower and more consistent water levels and is less affected by boating traffic. A floating deck may be better for deeper or fluctuating water levels with lighter traffic.
In deeper water, a floating dock could be the less costly option because you will forgo the expense of installing pilings in favor of buoyant dock floats. However, dock floats carry their own costs. Deck size (square footage), materials used, and your expected load will determine the size and number of floats you must purchase for optimum safety.
A stationary dock requires the installation of pilings. These can be costly (especially the deeper you go), typically require professional installation, and sometimes entail environmental red tape due to their more permanent nature.
Another advantage of a floating dock is that installation and maintenance can be much more DIY-friendly than the stationary dock. On the other hand, a stationary dock can last longer with fewer maintenance issues. In fact, some estimates place the lifespan of a floating dock at around 20-30 years, while a stationary dock may last 25-35 years.
Finally, think about the ways you and your family interact with the water. Are you a retired couple mainly interested in fishing or an easy circuit around the lake? Or will your dock be full of kids and grandkids, swimming and riding jet skis? Will your boat be in the water all season, or will you haul it out from time to time?
Some less experienced boaters, or people with balance issues, can find it difficult to ingress and egress from a bobbing boat to a bobbing floating dock, and vice versa. As noted previously, a low water level can make your stationary dock harder to reach for younger and older swimmers. As for putting in and hauling out boats and toys, many boaters prefer to drive their craft up onto a boat lift. Most stationary docks can accommodate the addition of a boat lift, while some floating docks cannot.
Are you considering adding a dock to your property, but aren’t sure if a floating dock or stationary dock is the way to go? Begin by making an honest assessment of your location, your budget, and your boating lifestyle. Figure out how a dock will fit your family, not the other way around. Then take your questions and concerns to a qualified dock professional.
Carolina Waterworks is a quality manufacturer of dock floats, commercial and residential gangways, floating docks, buoys, and Safe Haven drive-on boat and jet ski lifts. We have over 30 years of experience in the marine industry and our docks have been the answer to countless questions raised by boaters looking to enhance their boating experience. We can do the same for you, so contact us today!
Commercial and Residential ramps from Carolina Waterworks feature rugged construction and finely sculpted design. We fabricate them from durable marine-grade aluminum that is corrosion-resistant and requires minimal maintenance. Carolina Waterworks offers a range of decking options, lengths, and widths, and are available in stock or custom sizes. They will arrive at your location complete and ready to install with rollers and a polymer-coated hinge pin.
Ramps from Carolina Waterworks come in various widths and lengths for your convenience whether it is for commercial or residential use.
Our ramps are also available in various surface options, including:
More durable than wood, and at a fraction of the weight of steel, aluminum-deck ramps define long-lasting convenience. Installation and maintenance are quick and easy, as is removal at the end of the season – or when nasty weather threatens.
Forget all your fears about wood decking because Ipe (EE-pay) is the tropical king of wood density and hardness! This exotic hardwood species grows tall and strong in the forests of South and Central America. And with its rich coloring and fine to medium texture, Ipe is not just tough and durable (and naturally slip-resistant), but it is also easy on the eye!
Carolina Waterworks ramps with poly decking are extremely durable and will resist the effects of sun and wear, such as rotting, molding, splitting, twisting, warping, and drooping. Its synthetic non-porous construction is extremely water-resistant. And it will stand up to the kinds of abuse boaters will throw at it, including food stains, chlorine, alcohol, and tanning lotion.
Carolina Waterworks ramps with composite decking will maintain their color without continual repainting and sealing. They maintain their structural integrity without warping or splintering. In addition, because the contents of composite decking consist partly of recycled plastic materials, it earns high marks for sustainability.
At Carolina Waterworks, Inc. we are committed to helping you maximize your time spent on the water and minimize the related effort and expense. Through constant innovations and high quality standards, we provide marine products that are safe, easy to use, and low maintenance. Want to learn more about commercial and residential ramps? Contact Carolina Waterworks today!
Carolina Waterworks is a quality manufacturer of dock floats, commercial/residential gangways, floating docks, buoys, and Safe Haven drive-on boat and jet ski lifts.
We are a privately owned company with over 30 years of experience in the marine industry.
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