Why length is the main cost driver
Every additional foot of pier means more pilings, more stringers, and more decking. A 100-foot pier costs roughly twice what a 50-foot pier does. On the shallow, gradually sloping shorelines common in Hampton Roads, you sometimes need a long pier just to reach water deep enough to float a boat. That is why two neighbors on the same street can get very different quotes.
What is in the price
You are paying for pilings driven to refusal, framing and stringers, decking, and marine-grade hardware. Width matters too. A standard residential pier is four to six feet wide. Wider walkways or a T-head or L-head platform at the end add square footage and cost proportionally.
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Permitting note
Piers over tidal water go through the Joint Permit Application. Virginia has specific rules about pier length, width, and height over wetlands. Piers over 100 feet get extra scrutiny from VMRC. We flag the likely permit path in your estimate.
Virginia Beach Dock Builders is a free matching and estimating service. We are not a licensed marine contractor. We connect you with independent, licensed marine contractors serving your area. Estimates are informational only; your matched contractor provides the binding quote after a site visit.