Common questions

What does a dock cost? It depends on size, roof style, decking and whether you want a lift, so we do not quote off a price list. We come out and measure your shoreline before we quote it, every job, then give you a fixed materials-and-labor bid before anything is ordered.

Do I need a permit? Almost always. Lakes Hamilton and Catherine are Entergy-controlled under FERC Project 271, and new docks, replacement docks, lifts, seawalls and most shoreline work need written approval before construction starts. We prepare and file the application for you and follow it through. Entergy makes the decision, not us.

How long does permitting take? That is Entergy’s queue, not ours, and it moves with the season. We submit it, track it, and tell you where it stands.

How long does the build take? Once the permit is approved and materials are in, most residential docks run a few weeks. Weather, lake level and material lead times move that, so treat the schedule in your bid as our best estimate and we will keep you posted as it changes.

Do you service docks you did not build? Usually, yes. Cables, broken welds, decking, roof and siding panels, lift motors and switches, and re-floating sunken docks. If a dock is past the point where a repair makes sense, we will tell you that up front.

What does my dock do during the drawdown? Entergy lowers the lakes in the fall and refills in the spring. If your dock sits in shallow water it may have to move or it will rest on the bottom. We run a move and monitor service every year, and the schedule fills up, so get on the list early.

Can you ship a dock kit to me? Yes. Floating dock kits can be picked up here or freighted out of Hot Springs. We quote the shipping to your address before you commit to anything.

Can I still build a floating dock? In most cases, yes. As we understand Entergy’s current shoreline rules, a floating dock is still an option where you have about seven feet of water off your shoreline. We check the depth when we come measure and tell you what we expect Entergy will approve before we draw anything. Entergy makes the final call, not us.

What are my decking and frame options? Composite is what most people choose now, including Owens Corning composite lumber. It holds its color and does not need the yearly sealing treated lumber does. We also build in treated lumber and concrete decking. Steel frames painted any color or hot-dip galvanized, and several roof styles and colors. We will walk you through how each one wears on this lake before you pick.

Will you build something different? Yes, and we enjoy it. Two-tone and stained decking, mixed materials, custom frame and roof colors, built-in seating, bar tops, ladders and swim platforms, and rail and deck lighting. If you have an idea we have not built before, bring it. We will price it honestly and tell you straight if we do not think it will hold up out here, or if Entergy will not allow it.

Are you licensed and insured? Yes. Licensed contractor, insured, bondable and BBB accredited. We can send current certificates on request.

Still have a question? Call or text 501-623-7698.