Investing in a custom dock is one of the most rewarding ways to upgrade your lakefront property, transforming your shoreline into a spirited space for recreation, relaxation, and lasting memories. The key to a successful custom dock construction project lies in choosing the right partner. At Kroeger Marine, we believe that every custom dock build starts with asking the right questions, which is why we’re sharing 10 essential ones you should ask before hiring a custom dock construction company.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured for Custom Dock Construction?

Licensing and insurance aren’t just paperwork—they’re your protection. It’s essential to work with a dock builder that carries the proper credentials, as this safeguards your investment and guarantees compliance with all local and state regulations. At Kroeger Marine, we’re fully licensed and insured for custom dock construction on Lake Keowee, Lake Hartwell, Lake Jocassee, and the surrounding area, so you can feel confident that your project is in qualified hands.

2. What Experience Do You Have With Custom Dock Construction Projects?

Years of hands-on experience translate into smoother projects and superior results. Look for builders with a proven track record in designing and constructing docks, especially in your region. With over four decades of experience, we’ve completed thousands of custom docks here at Kroeger Marine, earning a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship, reliability, and top-tier customer service.

3. Can You Provide References and a Portfolio of Custom Docks?

Seeing is believing. A reputable custom dock builder will readily share a portfolio showcasing a range of completed projects and satisfied clients. You can view our extensive portfolio of custom dock projects, demonstrating our ability to deliver outstanding results for any waterfront property.

4. What Materials Do You Use for Custom Dock Construction?

The materials used in your dock will impact its durability, maintenance, and appearance for years to come. You’ll want a company that uses only premium, high-quality, and low-maintenance materials. When ordering a Kroeger Marine custom dock, you’ll have access to a range of top-quality decking options, including Ipe Brazilian hardwood, a variety of advanced synthetic PVCs, and even aluminum. Reinforced by heavy-duty roof panels, 4” roof posts, and our patented ZigZag understructure, our docks are built for life and designed for luxury living, ensuring they remain beautiful and resilient season after season.

5. How Do You Handle Permitting and Local Regulations?

The dock permitting process can be a bit overwhelming, which is why a seasoned dock construction company will eliminate the headache by managing the process for you from start to finish. At Kroeger Marine, we’re up-to-date on all regulatory and subdivision changes that affect Lakes Keowee, Hartwell, and the surrounding regions, making this part of your custom dock project hassle-free. View our FAQ on the permitting process here.

6. What Is Your Design Process for Custom Docks?

A dock should be designed around the lifestyle it supports. The best builders engage you in a collaborative design process, tailoring every detail—from layout and roofing options to next-gen accessories—to fit your vision and your property’s natural features. No matter where you are in the design process, our team can work closely with you to plan, design, and build the custom dock you’ve been dreaming about.

7. What is the Estimated Timeline for My Custom Dock Construction?

Getting an estimated timeline for the construction of your dock helps set clear expectations, factoring in the permit process, material delivery, building, and installation. The standard permitting timeline is about a month, and our standard lead time on dock construction is approximately 2-3 months. This means you can generally expect an overall time frame of 3-4 months for your new dock. With proactive updates, you’ll never be left wondering if your dock will be ready when you need it, especially when you choose a Kroeger Marine custom dock.

8. What Warranties or Guarantees Do You Offer on Custom Docks?

Be sure to ask what’s covered under guarantees or warranties, as these are signs of quality and confidence in workmanship. Kroeger Marine stands behind every custom dock we build, offering a 5-year limited warranty against defective workmanship on all products we manufacture. In addition, we partner with trusted suppliers to provide manufacturer-backed warranties on key components, including, but not limited to:

• Roof Panels: 25-year manufacturer’s material warranty for unpainted panels; 40-year material and paint warranty for painted panels.
• Cedar Shake: Manufacturer’s 30-year transferrable or 50-year non-transferrable warranty against termites and fungal decay.
• Floats: 15-year non-transferable manufacturer’s warranty against cracking, peeling, and UV degradation.
• Paint/Powder Coat: 2-year warranty on the finish of any painted or powder-coated elements (such as posts) under normal use.
• Decking: Manufacturer warranties of up to 50 years for stain, fade, colorfastness, and performance (varies by decking material and manufacturer).
• Cupola & Weathervane: 1-year manufacturer’s warranty on workmanship and materials.
• Bumpers: 1-year manufacturer’s warranty from the date of sale against all manufacturing defects.
• HydroHoist Boat Lifts: Manufacturer’s 10-year warranty for tanks, 3-year warranty for lift components, and 1-year warranty for parts not purchased with the lift.
• PWC Ports: 10-year manufacturer’s warranty against cracks, breakage, leaks, and UV-deterioration caused by defects in material and/or manufacturing.
• LakeEze Accessories: Manufacturer’s 3-year limited warranty.

9. Who Will Manage My Project and Serve as My Point of Contact?

Effective communication is key to a smooth build. At Kroeger Marine, your sales representative serves as your primary point of contact, guiding you from initial planning through completion. But, because building a dock is a collaborative effort, you’ll also hear from other team members along the way regarding permitting, material selections, build details, and scheduling. We stay in close communication throughout the process, so you always know what’s happening and who to reach out to if questions come up.

10. How Are Unexpected Issues or Changes Handled During Construction?

Even well-planned projects can face surprises. We’re committed to transparency and flexibility, promptly informing you of any changes throughout the process, and we will work collaboratively to resolve any challenges within your budget.

Let’s Build Your Dream Dock This Season – Contact Kroeger Marine Today

When it’s time to plan, design, and purchase a custom dock that combines exceptional craftsmanship, imaginative design, and lasting durability, partnering with a world-class leader in custom dock construction makes all the difference. Contact us today to schedule your personalized consultation and discover why Kroeger Marine has been setting the standard for luxury docks on Lake Keowee and the surrounding area since 1985.