3 Things To Consider When Buying A Dock Ladder

A dock ladder is a necessary addition to almost any dock, but unfortunately, the dock ladder is not something you can purchase without first doing a bit of research. The main goal when putting in a dock ladder is to ensure that everyone that uses it is safe. Safety is not all that difficult to obtain if you consider these three things when buying a dock ladder.

Essential Considerations When Buying A Dock Ladder

The three most important things to consider here are who will use the dock ladder, where the dock ladder is stored, and how people can see the ladder as they use it both day and night.

Who Will Use The Dock Ladder?

The first consideration is the people that plan to use the dock ladder. Is this setup for children to go in and out of the water? Does your elderly father come to visit and want to go for a morning dive off the dock?

When people are in shape or are used to being in the water using a dock ladder, there are certainly not as many concerns. However, as soon as you throw in extra considerations like poor balance or lack of coordination, you start to see issues come up.

Luckily, there are plenty of dock ladders with this problem already solved. Look for a dock ladder that has an extra wide footing. In addition, look for a ladder with a slightly less steep incline. This will, of course, depend on space and budget.

All dock ladders come with a very clearly stated weight capacity. We recommend choosing the higher weight capacity regardless of the size of the people using it. Having extra weight capacity is something that will only help improve the longevity and functionality of the dock ladder.

Where Will The Dock Ladder Live?

You will have two options for where to store your dock ladder; in the water or out. Most dock owners choose a stationary ladder fixed in place and submerged in the water. A stationary ladder is the simplest option, as you will never need to remember or worry about the ladder being in place.

These dock ladders are built to stay in the water, so you should not worry about quick deterioration simply because they are submerged.

Other options for dock ladders include lifting ladders or folding or flip-up ladders. Although these dock ladders are not difficult to work with, it’s certainly easier to just put your ladder in once and keep it there.

Sometimes you can run across issues with rules regarding dock ladders, and it will impact your purchase decision. Some dock owners find that taking the ladder in and out is the best for them as it increases longevity.

How Will It Be Seen?

The third consideration deals with dock lighting. When you think about climbing in and out of the water, you probably think about a warm summer day. The dock ladder will be easy to see and won’t require any special accommodation.

However, this will not be the only time you need to see your dock ladder. When buying a dock ladder, you must consider safety at all times of the day and night.

The proper dock lighting around your dock ladder will help someone in the water find the ladder. In addition, it will ensure that anyone on the dock does not accidentally trip over the ladder as they are working on the dock.

We highly recommend installing all types of dock lights, including underwater dock lights, LED dock lights, deck lights, and piling and post Lights. Not only do these lights make your dock ladder more functional it makes the experience that much better.

Is A Dock Ladder Necessary?

Dock ladders serve two purposes. The first is for safety; should someone fall into the water unexpectedly, they will have an easy way to climb out. The other is for functionality. If you live on the water and want to get in the water to swim, paddleboard, etc., having that ladder is essential.

Final Thoughts

Most dock owners are careful to purchase a ladder with the proper weight capacity. However, when it comes to things like a wider step, proper dock lighting, or storage of the ladder, these are often overlooked. Keeping these things in mind as you shop for your next dock ladder could have you making a purchase that lasts for 10 or more years.