Winterization vs Removal

What’s the difference between winterizing a dock and removing it from the lake?

In short, winterization is for boat docks that are permanent and can withstand winter weather in the lake, and removal is for docks that aren’t permanent. Here’s a few tips for preparing for both situations.

If You’re Leaving the Dock in for Winter

Whether or not a dock can be left in depends mostly on the lake.  If your lake doesn’t get large ice flows, AND there are no regulations against it, a dock can be left in. Ice flows are what usually cause dock damage, rather than just plain freezing.

If you’re leaving your dock in, you “winterize” the dock. If that’s your plan:

• Remove accessories like lights, ladders, bumpers, and cleats to protect them from ice damage.
• Double-check that cables, anchors, and hardware are in good condition to prevent shifting or breakage.

If You’re Removing the Dock

If your lake gets large ice flows or there are regulations against leaving it in, the dock needs to come out for the winter. If that’s the case:

• Always remove leg sets from each section before storing.
• Number your leg sets so when you install your boat dock next spring, you’ll have minimal re-leveling to do—saving both time and effort.
• Store sections and parts in a secure place to protect.  If you decide to cover them to protect them from snow and ice, be sure there is air flow.  Don’t seal them in completely. 

Read more in our latest article.

Everything You Need to Install, Remove, and Winterize Your Boat Dock

Whether you have a question about installing, removing, or winterizing your dock, Alumi-Span is here to help! To get in touch, call (855) 523-2444 or submit a contact form here. We look forward to helping you make the most out of your boat dock!

Time to Start Planning for Fall!

How do you know when to start winterizing or removing your dock?

Here are a few tips on general timing, as well as regional recommendations!

Signs It’s Time to Start Planning

While every lake and river has its own seasonal rhythm, here are a few signs you should start thinking about dock removal or winterization:

• Water Temperatures Are Dropping. Cold water makes late-season work more uncomfortable and potentially unsafe.
• Weather is Becoming Unpredictable. Fall storms can bring wind, waves, and ice sooner than expected.
• End of Boating Season. Once you’re done with boats and personal watercraft for the year, your dock’s off-season prep can begin.

Regional Timing Recommendations

Your ideal timing will depend on your location. Here are a few examples:

• Northern Climates: Ice formation can start as early as October or November, so removal or winterization should happen before freezing conditions set in.
• Milder Regions: You may have more flexibility, but don’t wait until heavy winds or snow are in the forecast.
• Fluctuating Water Levels: If your area sees significant water level changes in the fall, factor that into your schedule to avoid working in unsafe conditions.

Read more in our latest article.

Everything You Need to Install, Remove, and Winterize Your Boat Dock

Whether you have a question about winterizing, removing, or installing your boat dock, Alumi-Span is here to help! To get in touch, call (855) 523-2444 or submit a contact form here. We look forward to helping you make the most out of your boat dock!

Intro to Uprights

When you build a boat dock, how do you use uprights?

Uprights, or dock posts, provide vertical stability and anchor the dock to the lakebed. Their functions include:

1. Height Adjustment. Uprights allow docks to be leveled according to water depth and seasonal changes. Docks with adjustable legs simplify installation and removal.
2. Foundation Anchoring. Depending on the lakebed conditions, uprights may use bottom plates, augers, or other stabilizing bases to remain secure. Alumi-Span’s permanent augers and Big Foot systems ensure stability even in soft or mucky lakebeds.
3. Load-Bearing. Uprights support the entire dock, including the dock platform itself, accessories, and any weight applied during use.

Learn more in our latest article.

Shop Michigan-Made Dock Posts (and Much More)

Alumi-Span is your one-stop-shop for all the boat dock parts you’ll need. No need for you to worry about scouring different websites to find quality dock parts and hardware. To place an order or ask a question, call 855-523-2444 or submit a contact form here. We can’t wait to help you design your boat dock! 

Intro to Crossarms

When you build a boat dock, how do you use crossarms?

Crossarms serve as horizontal support beams that span between upright dock posts. They are essential for:

1. Distributing Weight Evenly. Crossarms connect the uprights and help distribute the dock's weight. This ensures stability, especially under heavy weight.
2. Structural Integrity. By linking the uprights, crossarms reduce lateral (side-to-side) movement caused by water currents or wind.
3. Customization. Crossarms make it easier to build custom docks, allowing configurations like straight piers, "L"-shaped docks, or even platforms. For example, Alumi-Span offers crossarms in various sizes to match different dock designs and applications.

Learn more in our latest article.

Shop Michigan-Made Dock Posts (and Much More)

Alumi-Span is your one-stop-shop for all the boat dock parts you’ll need. No need for you to worry about scouring different websites to find quality dock parts and hardware. To place an order or ask a question, call 855-523-2444 or submit a contact form here. We can’t wait to help you design your boat dock!