Frequently Asked Questions

How can I see a dock before I buy one online?

Jack Docks has a showroom in Providence, RI, and Patriot Docks has a showroom in Harris, MN. We also have many hundreds of satisfied customers all over the world. If you can’t make it to our showrooms, you can either purchase a part to return or you can reach out to us about finding a previous customer in your area. 

Is there a dealer near me?

Jack Docks does not have dealers. We work directly with the customer and ship the dock products to their door. Our customers assemble their docks themselves. The main reason we do not have dealers is to keep the price low and to keep up with the standard of internet commerce.

Is Jack Docks the manufacturer?

No. Patriot Docks manufactures and Jack Docks is the only Patriot retailer that includes jack supports. Patriot Docks has some parts manufactured locally and other parts imported. Other retailers include Home Depot.

Does Jack Docks sell used products or trade-ins?

No. Jack Docks only sells new products. Scratch and dent or related discounts are available at different times of the year.

Can I add on to my dock or change shape in the future?

Yes. Our modular design allows you to add additional frame sections in the future. Most people have changing needs as time goes on, whether they want to moor another boat, go out deeper into the water, or add a larger patio section. Modular docks are the only way to go, since you would need to order a whole new dock in other circumstances!

Can I use a winch or an ATV to move my dock?

It is not recommended. Jack Docks are designed to be transported easily by hand. Each frame section is only 45lbs. Without the decking, moving these docks is easy to do. Longer rolling Jack Dock packages come with wheels at least every 40ft of dock to roll with one or two people. Trucks, ATV’s, and tractors can damage the frame if not handled appropriately and voids the warranty.

Can I customize my dock to my unique circumstances?

Yes. Contact us to discuss your dock. Dock packages are only the beginning of what our products can do. Frames, supports, and accessories are very versatile. Many parts can be added or substituted for others.

How deep do my supports go?

Each Jack Dock package has an image and specifications that reference optimal water depths, and full height measurements for standard and tall rolling jacks. Generally Tall Rolling Jacks can reach 5ft water depth maximum, and Tall stationary Jacks can reach 80in water depth maximum.

How do I build my Jack Dock?

Building a Jack Dock is easy! Follow the instruction pdf or instruction video!

How do I secure my decking to my frame?

Although decking does not need to be secured since it sits in the frame securely, you can fasten your decking for bodies of water with abnormally large waves. There are many ways to secure the decking to the frame. You can purchase Deck Lockers, zip tie panels under the dock frame, or pre-drill and bolt the decking through the frame. Zip ties, and bolts not included with dock packages, but poly and aluminum dock packages include lockers.

How do I winterize my dock?

In the event of freezing, all docks are recommended to be taken out of the water. Taking the dock out for the winter is easy!
1. Remove the decking, starting with the lake end of the dock.
2. Pull the frame out of the water.
3. Store frame fully assembled or broken down on the shore.
4. Store decking out of the elements for longest-lasting decking.

How do the jack supports work?

Jack supports are easy to adjust. A nut (¾”) on top of the jack raises and lowers the unit. Simply use a cordless drill with a ¾” socket to change the height. There is a leg or an axle that can be adapted to the bottom of each jack, which has an additional point of adjustment. The total range on the jack mechanism is 18”.

How long does assembly take?

Assembly takes about 30 minutes per frame, depending on the number of people assembling and the tools available.

How strong are the dock frames?

Very strong. The truss frames are 4” taller than the industry average so supports are only needed every 16ft of linear dock! Angled aluminum, diagonal braces, transition plates, and serrated nuts also contribute to a very strong design. Jack Docks are commonly used in commercial settings and trees have fallen on Jack Docks with minimal damage. Strength should always be part of the discussion, but it is our number one positive feedback we get from returning customers. Jack Docks are so much stronger than customers anticipated!

Does the aluminum frame rust?

No. We offer a marine grade aluminum frames (6061T6).

Does this dock rust in saltwater?

We offer marine grade aluminum frames (6061T6), which hold up under saltwater conditions. Rinsing aluminum is always recommended since aluminum is not perfectly immune to corrosion. The corrosive process on the hardware may be increased, but the grade of aluminum we offer will resist rust. Over time there is some susceptibility to “pitting rust” or surface rust.

Is hardware included?

Yes. All the hardware required for the frames, securing the supports, and fenders are all included with the dock packages.

If I order decking, will the color match a previous order?

Jack Docks cannot guarantee color matching previously ordered decking. There may have been environmental changes to the coloring of any decking material, and there have been some changes made to the coloring process, which can affect how the panels look next to each other. Notably, the Brown Aluminum Decking has changed slightly from all orders before March, 2024 (1st Generation, PN10967) to current orders (2nd Generation, PN10977).

What kind of hardware is provided?

⅜” bolts with serrated locking nuts, Grade 8 Yellow Zinc plated (similar to galvanized). Yellow zinc plating is 600% more rust-resistant than steel bolts. Our hardware is not recommended in salt water without additional protective measures.

How do I return my order?

Contact us to initiate a return. Refunds pertain to the product cost, but the customer is responsible for the cost of shipping the product to our warehouse. Refunds are issued when the order is received at our warehouse if the parts are like new. Restocking fees apply to orders when returned. Returns are not accepted after 12 months following the order date.

How does the dock get shipped to me?

While small parts are shipped via FedEx, docks, canopies, and some boat lifts are shipped on a pallet.

How can I pay for my order?

We accept Visa, MasterCard, eCheck, and physical check. Orders over $15,000 must pay with an eCheck or physical check. Full payment is required before the order is placed. No down-payments are allowed. Financing options available with Affirm (fees apply), and more information is available under each product page or the cart.