At Smith Mountain Lake (SML), Virginia, a custom dock is the heart of lakefront living. Whether you’re tying up your boat, diving in for a swim, or savoring the breathtaking views across this 20,600-acre reservoir, your dock sets the stage for unforgettable moments. As a trusted Class A contractor at Build SML, we’ve built countless docks from Moneta to Huddleston, and we know that most docks here combine both fixed and floating components. The size and design of your dock depend on the shoreline footage of your lot and the permit issued by American Electric Power (AEP), which oversees SML’s regulations. So, what’s the difference between fixed and floating dock sections, and how do they work together to create the perfect setup for your property? Let’s explore the ins and outs of each to help you make the best choice for your Smith Mountain Lake lifestyle.
Fixed docks, often called stationary or pile docks, are the sturdy backbone of many SML dock designs. Anchored into the lakebed with robust pilings—typically made of wood, steel, or composite materials—these sections extend from your shoreline and remain at a fixed height above the water. At Smith Mountain Lake, where shorelines range from rocky cliffs to soft slopes, fixed docks provide a stable foundation, especially for the portion closest to shore where shallow water is common.
The strength of a fixed dock lies in its unwavering stability. Unaffected by waves or passing boats, it offers a solid platform for walking, fishing, or hosting friends during SML’s lively summer season. Picture carrying a cooler full of drinks to your boat without the dock shifting beneath you—that’s the reliability a fixed section brings. For homeowners with larger boats or those who want a permanent structure, the fixed portion of the dock is often the go-to spot for mooring or adding custom features like benches, railings, or even a shaded canopy to enjoy the lake’s rolling hills.
Fixed docks are also highly customizable. With durable materials like composite decking, which resists rot and weathering, they’re built to endure Virginia’s humid summers and chilly winters with minimal maintenance. At Build SML, we often design fixed sections to seamlessly connect to floating components, creating a cohesive dock that maximizes both stability and flexibility. However, fixed docks have their limitations. Because SML is a man-made lake, water levels fluctuate due to rainfall, drought, or power generation at the Smith Mountain Dam. In dry seasons, a fixed section may sit higher above the water, requiring a ramp or steps to reach the floating portion. After heavy rains, the water might rise closer to the decking. These challenges are why most SML docks pair fixed sections with floating ones, and why AEP’s permitting process—based on your lot’s shoreline footage—plays a critical role in determining your dock’s layout and square footage.
Floating docks are the adaptable counterpart to fixed sections, designed to move with Smith Mountain Lake’s changing water levels. Supported by buoyant materials like sealed barrels, foam-filled pontoons, or modular flotation systems, these sections rest on the water’s surface and are anchored with cables or poles. At SML, floating docks are often used for the outer portions of a dock, extending into deeper water where boats need consistent access. Thanks to AEP’s regulations, which dictate dock size based on your shoreline footage, the floating section is carefully planned to fit within your permitted square footage while meeting your needs.
The biggest advantage of a floating dock is its ability to adjust to SML’s water fluctuations. Whether the lake is at full pond or lower during a dry spell, the floating section stays at a consistent height relative to the water, ensuring easy access to your boat or swimming area. This adaptability is a game-changer for lakefront properties with deeper water or variable shorelines, where a fixed-only dock might be impractical. Imagine hopping onto your boat without climbing or stretching, no matter the season—that’s the convenience a floating section delivers.
Floating docks are also easier to install and modify than their fixed counterparts. Since they don’t require deep pilings driven into SML’s rocky lakebed, setup is often quicker, letting you enjoy your dock sooner as summer approaches. If you want to expand your dock later—within AEP’s permitted size limits—modular floating designs make it simple to add sections. Plus, floating docks are portable; if you move to another SML property, you can take this section with you, unlike a fixed structure.
However, floating docks come with some trade-offs. They’re more responsive to waves, wind, or boat wakes, which can create a gentle bobbing motion. For some, this feels like part of the lake’s charm, but if you prefer a steadier surface, you’ll rely on the fixed portion for that stability. Floating sections also require periodic maintenance to ensure their flotation systems and anchors hold up to SML’s active environment. At Build SML, we recommend regular checkups to keep your floating dock in top shape, especially with the lake’s busy boating season.
At Smith Mountain Lake, it’s rare to see a dock that’s entirely fixed or entirely floating. Instead, most docks combine both, with the fixed section anchoring the structure near the shore and the floating section extending into deeper water. This hybrid design maximizes the strengths of each: the fixed portion provides a stable entry point and a solid base for amenities, while the floating portion adapts to water level changes and ensures easy boat access. The exact configuration—how much is fixed versus floating—depends on your lot’s shoreline footage, which AEP uses to calculate your permitted dock size. For example, a property with more shoreline might allow a larger dock with a longer floating section, while a smaller lot might call for a compact setup with a shorter fixed base.
This combination also reflects SML’s unique conditions. Fixed sections are ideal for shallow areas where pilings can be securely driven, while floating sections thrive in deeper zones or where water levels vary. A typical SML dock might start with a fixed walkway from the shore, transition to a floating platform for boat mooring, and include a ramp to bridge the two. This setup ensures year-round usability, whether the lake is high after spring rains or lower during late summer.
When planning your SML dock, cost and durability are key considerations. Fixed dock sections often have a higher upfront cost due to the labor and materials needed for pile-driving and construction. Their lifespan, however, can stretch 20-30 years or more with proper care, especially with weather-resistant materials. Floating sections typically cost less initially and install faster, but their longevity—around 15-20 years—depends on the quality of the flotation system and exposure to SML’s elements. At Build SML, we provide custom quotes to balance your budget with a dock that fits your AEP-approved square footage.
AEP’s permitting process is a critical factor. Your dock’s total size, measured in square feet, is determined by the linear footage of your shoreline, as outlined in AEP’s guidelines. This means a larger lot might allow a spacious dock with both fixed and floating sections, while a smaller lot requires a more compact design. We navigate these regulations for you, ensuring your dock complies with AEP’s rules while meeting your vision.
Your property’s water depth and SML’s weather patterns also shape your dock’s design. Fixed sections work best in shallow, stable areas where pilings can reach the lakebed efficiently. Floating sections are perfect for deeper water or zones with fluctuating levels, rising and falling with the lake. Virginia’s thunderstorms and occasional high winds can challenge a floating section’s anchors, but a well-built fixed section holds firm. By combining both, you get a dock that’s ready for SML’s dynamic environment.
So, how do you choose the right mix of fixed and floating for your Smith Mountain Lake dock? It starts with understanding your property’s shoreline, water depth, and AEP’s permitted size. If you value a stable entry and plan to stay long-term, a robust fixed section is essential. If you need flexibility for boating or deeper water, a floating section is a must. Most likely, you’ll want both, tailored to your lot’s unique footprint and your lakefront dreams. At Build SML, we’ve crafted hybrid docks across the lake, blending fixed and floating sections to suit every shoreline.
Contact Build SML today for expert guidance and top-quality construction. We’ll design a dock that fits your AEP permit, showcases your property, and makes summer 2025 your best yet on the water!
