Looking for a unique summer project? Our BlueBarrel Rainwater Catchment System® is just one way to upcycle 55 gallon blue plastic drums. Used 55-gallon plastic barrels can be transformed into floating docks, swim platforms, fishing barges, and even DIY pontoon boats. If you're near a lake, pond, or beach, here's some inspiration for your next warm-weather build.
Build your way to summer fun with a few used barrels and these great ideas!
Getting Started: How to Build a Floating Dock
A quick web search will result in many methods for building a floating dock from barrels. Whether you choose to go for a simple solution or complex custom design, the basics will include:
- recycled 55 gallon blue plastic drums (make sure to get "tight-head" drums with no removable lid)
- treated lumber for the frame and platform
- fasteners (ranging from bungee cords to bolts)
A floating dock can be anchored to the land via a stationary platform or other landing for attaching the dock to so it doesn’t float...away. Alternatively, you can anchor the dock with cinder blocks or other weights, but this may not work in deep water or fast currents.
Blue Barrel Boats
Why stop at a stationary floating dock? If these barrels float (and they really do!) why not turn that platform into a pontoon party boat?! There are many fun examples of barrel boats to look at for inspiration. Here are a few to get your imagination going…
Barrel docks and boats are a great way to pluck 55-gallon drums from the waste stream and utilize them creatively. Reusing durable plastic barrels extends their useful life and keeps valuable materials in circulation instead of entering the waste stream.
Find Used Barrels Near You!
Here at BlueBarrel, we connect people with local used blue barrels throughout the USA. On this very website, you can find barrels near you and to learn more about creative ways to upcycle them.
Pro Tip for Floating Docks and Barges: Choose food-grade, tight-head plastic barrels that are structurally sound and free from cracks or UV damage. Open-top barrels with resealable ring-closures do not seal reliably enough for flotation. Even small defects can reduce buoyancy over time.
Ready to build your own dock, swim platform, or barrel boat? Find recycled 55-gallon barrels near you through BlueBarrel's nationwide supplier network:
