But if you want to build a floating dock and then forget about it for 20
years foamed filled is the way to go. That's why real floats are foam
filled. Then you don't have "bad" barrels. But you are right about the
price. It takes several hundred dollars to buy that much foam. Then again
you could just decide to do it right with real floats instead of dicking
around on the cheap and ending up with something you're going to be messing
with later.

""UglyDan®©T"" wrote in message
...
(jamesgangnc)wrote
And that's why filling with expanding closed cell foam is a good idea.

In most cases its not needed, costs much more, and you can't control the
buoyancy as easily.
With a shot of 79/21 you just add till level.
What if he wants to add a dockbox, or a swim ladder later on? You just
can't open the bung on a barrel and add or takeout foam, but you can
with air, and on the rare occasion, Its also the easiest way to pull a
bad barrel and replace it. BTDT
Sometimes the simplest way is best. UD

On Feb 15, 12:16 pm, (UglyDan(R)(c)(tm)) wrote:
wrote
Has anyone built a floating dock using 55 gallon plastic barrels? I have
5 available and would like to make a dock that is at least 12x12 . Does
anyone have any easy plans to use or suggestions? Thanks!

Ok, Without going into too much detail I'll chime in, since this is part
of what I do for a living.
First off, You need another 7 barrels, make sure they all have the same
dimensions, The best and safest way is to prefab the unit like SWS
mentioned, I would use treated 2x12's for the frame, then rack the
barrels into the frame using steel galvanized strapping, rope , etc..
The barrels will have to be horizontal of course, but make sure the
bungs are vertical or perpendicular to the waters surface, and again
make sure that the bungs have gaskets. It's also important that the
lower bungs are free from any obstructions, this makes them easier to
service with a air compresser should you develop any future leaks, That
way it makes my job simpler when you have to hire me, or one of my
counterpart's to come fix it.
I service many of the 100's of floating homes, and docks in my area, so
for obvious (hazardous) reasons these recommendations are for building
your dock out of the water, not in the water.
UD

I have 80 55 gal plastic barrels with which to float a houseboat. Are
there any drawings available to make this float?