How do I build a floating dock using 55 gallon drums?

Question

I would like to build a floating dock 6x10 or 6x12 using plastic 55 gallon drums. I am open to any and all ideas. Due to budget I will be building this out of wood - not aluminum. My biggest problem is attaching the drums the wood without punching holes in the plastic drums.

Answer 1

Good idea, wood is fine for a frame, pressure treated of course. The easiest way to attach the barrels is to cut "saddles" in the joists-arched curves that match the curve of the barrels. They don't have to be that deep two inches at the deepest part of the curve will do if your deck is going on a pond or lake, if it's a river, a deeper curve is better. build the frame, (use lag bolts along with nails) flip it upside down, position the barrels, then use "pipe strap" to hold the barrels to the frame. Pipe Strap is a roll of perforated metal strap, it's galvanized, so it will last for a few years in the water. You can buy it at any hardware store. Fasten the strap to the wood frame on one side of the barrel then across the barrel to the other side. At least two straps per barrel. Get it as tight as you can. You can do this by holding the strap about a inch above the wood frame when you insert the second s***w on the other side of the barrel. The s***w will pull the strap tight. Don't put on the decking until you have flipped the frame back over and the deck is near or in the water. The pressure of the water against the barrels will keep them in place. Seal the threaded plugs with silicone caulk and let dry. Hope this helps.

Answer 2

you don't attach the drums to the frame: bouncing on the water would tear the attachments to pieces. you build four sided frames out of 2x4 a little larger than each drum so the drum floats within the frame between the water and the bottom of the deck floor. to keep the sides from splaying out,

you can attach 2 2x4 between the two long sides after the barrels are in the frame.

I have also done them by suspending the barrels with nylon fishing nets and or ropes, but not quite as durable.

Hope that helps.

Answer 3

Woodwerk(er) and Leo B both have good ideas.

1. Most plastics don't do well in direct sunlight.

2. Make sure you drill a tiny hole in the top of the drum after it's built to allow the air pressure to stabilize.

3. Also, make sure you either shade the plastic or paint it with a reflective paint...I would suggest silver or gloss white.