Prepping Your Dock for Summer Storms, Part 2

Is your dock ready for the best storm Michigan can throw at it?

In our last blog, we described two tips for protecting your dock from summer storms. Here are two MORE tips for keeping your dock in tip-top shape, even in Michigan’s wild summer storms!

Elevate Dock Height and Monitor Water Levels

• Pre storm adjustment: Ensure your dock is high enough that typical late summer waves won’t wash over the deck.
• Easy aluminum adjustment: Thanks to Alumi-Span’s lightweight anodized aluminum structure, leg-height modifications are quick and pain-free.

Protect Dock Electronics & Boat Equipment

• Power down and unplug: Disconnect lights, pumps, sensors—anything that uses electricity or floats water—before the storm hits.
• Bin and stow cords: Coil extension cables neatly and move them far enough inland to avoid flooding.
• Check boat covers: Secure all boat covers as recommend by manufacturer.  High winds can make covers into sails and can send boats flying, causing damage to not only the boat but docks as well.

Learn more in our latest article.

Stay Ahead of Storms with Premium Boat Dock Parts!

Aluminum docks from Alumi-Span offer:

• Unmatched strength and longevity, with many still in use after 50+ years.
• Easy maintenance, thanks to corrosion resistance and repair-friendly modular design.
• Adjustability, with leg-height tweaks made thanks to the lightweight aluminum frame.

Need help, replacement boat dock parts, or professional advice? Contact us today or visit the Alumi-Span Design Tool to customize your dock for maximum durability. If you prefer phone calls, call (855) 523-2444!

Prepping Your Dock for Summer Storms, Part 1

Do you know how to prep your dock for strong Michigan storms?

Here are two tips for protecting your dock from storms and keep your investment in prime condition!

Secure and Stow Loose Items

• Quick sweep: Remove movable items such as chairs, hoses, planters, and equipment and store them inland.
• Tie down essentials: If something must stay dockside—such as dock lights or ladders—secure them with durable straps or bungee cords.

Reinforce Anchoring & Post Stability

• Tighten connections: Walk the perimeter, check all bolts in stringer brackets, and tighten any that are loose.
• Leg and brace check: On auger-anchored docks, give each leg a firm shake to ensure it remains firmly embedded—reset and tighten if needed.
• Boat secured correctly: If not on a lift, ensure the boat is tied correctly to allow for storm waves.  Check all ropes for wear.

Learn more in our latest article.

Stay Ahead of Storms with Premium Boat Dock Parts!

Aluminum docks from Alumi-Span have been surviving Michigan storms since 1956 and offer:

• Unmatched strength and longevity, with many still in use after 50+ years.
• Easy maintenance, thanks to corrosion resistance and repair-friendly modular design.
• Adjustability, with leg-height tweaks made thanks to the lightweight aluminum frame.

Need help, replacement boat dock parts, or professional advice? Contact us today or visit the Alumi-Span Design Tool to customize your dock for maximum durability. If you prefer phone calls, call (855) 523-2444!

Give Your Dock a Personal Touch

How do you mark your dock as your own?

Here are three accessories that are practical, fun, and give your dock a personal touch that makes it all your own!

1. Flag Poles and Bumpers: Practical and Personal Touches

Want to show your spirit or make your dock easier to spot from the water? Add a flag pole! Many aluminum flag pole kits are designed for quick installation on a dock frame. And don’t forget dock bumpers, which protect your watercraft—and your dock—from accidental scrapes or bumps.

2. Swim Mats and Slides: Take the Fun to the Next Level

Floating swim mats and inflatable dock slides turn your lakefront into a summer playground. Attach the slide directly to your dock for endless entertainment, and roll out a durable swim mat for lounging, playing, or even doing yoga on the water.

These extras are sure to be a hit with kids and guests alike!

3. Storage Boxes: Keep Gear Dry and Organized

Waterfront activities often come with plenty of gear—life jackets, ropes, towels, tools, and more. A weatherproof dock box helps you stay organized and keeps items dry and secure. Choose a box made from marine-grade materials to resist moisture and sun damage.

Learn more in our latest article.

Enhance Your Summer with Smart Dock Accessories

With just a few creative and practical dock accessories, your dock can become the heart of your summer adventures. From swim ladders and dock lights to kayak racks, canopies, and floating slides, Alumi-Span offers enhancements make your time on the water more enjoyable and stress-free.

If you have questions or you’re ready to place an order, feel free to call (855) 523-2444 or submit a contact form here. We’re excited to help you build and maintain your dock!

Fabulously Practical Boat Dock Accessories

Looking for ways to update your boat dock this summer?

Here are five fun and functional dock accessories to consider adding this summer:

1. Swim Ladders and Stairs: Easy Water Access for Everyone

Whether you’re diving in for a swim or climbing out after floating in the sun, a sturdy swim ladder or set of dock stairs is a must. Look for corrosion-resistant, marine-grade aluminum ladders that can be removed when not in use to keep your dock clear. Stairs are especially great for kids, pets, or anyone who prefers an easier climb.

Alumi-Span offers multiple ladder and stair styles designed for both comfort and durability.

2. Dock Lights: Keep the Fun Going After Sunset

Extend your summer nights with dock lighting that adds both ambiance and safety. Solar-powered lights are an easy, no-wiring-required option to illuminate pathways, while underwater LED lights can add a fun, colorful glow to nighttime swims or boat docking.

Lighting isn’t just practical—it creates a beautiful atmosphere for lakeside evenings.

3. Benches and Seating: Relax and Enjoy the View

A dock bench provides the perfect spot to relax with your morning coffee or watch the sunset. Many designs include backrests and armrests for extra comfort. Alumi-Span also offers post-mounted dock chairs to get you out over the water. They are great for fishing or watching the sunset.

4. Paddleboard and Kayak Racks: Organize Your Gear

Avoid the clutter of boards and boats scattered along the shoreline with storage racks that keep your gear safely stowed and easy to access. Vertical or horizontal racks for paddleboards and kayaks help reduce wear and tear while freeing up dock space.

5. Canopies and Shade Covers: Beat the Heat

Hot summer sun can put a damper on your dock time. Install a dock canopy or umbrella system to create shady spots for lounging or gear storage. These can be freestanding or integrated into your dock’s frame for a clean, polished look.

Learn more in our latest article.

Enhance Your Summer with Smart Dock Accessories

With just a few creative and practical dock accessories, your dock can become the heart of your summer adventures. From swim ladders and dock lights to kayak racks, canopies, and floating slides, Alumi-Span offers enhancements make your time on the water more enjoyable and stress-free.

If you have questions or you’re ready to place an order, feel free to call (855) 523-2444 or submit a contact form here. We’re excited to help you build and maintain your dock!

Identifying High-Quality Dock Parts

How can you tell if your dock parts are high-quality?

For Alumi-Span Docks, they use a unique tongue and groove deck board that hinges together , eliminating the need for welding. Along that hinge and anywhere that metal meets metal, they apply a layer of outdoor-grade subfloor adhesive. The aluminum boards are still attached to the stringers using stainless steel fasteners, but the adhesive takes away the loud rattle often associated with welded metal docks. 

The aluminum boards have built-in tread that runs the entire width of the board, so there are no smooth spots that can be slip points.  This makes the aluminum dock safe to walk on, wet or dry.

Along the back of the dock section, there is an “I” beam that is supported by a rest on the crossarm.  This makes the sections rock solid! In addition, Alumi-Span uses heavier walled aluminum extrusions on both side stringers and deck boards  than most other manufacturers. 

All these things combined make an aluminum dock from Alumi-Span up to 35% stronger than similar looking systems. And yes, they actually tested them!

Get Your Aluminum Dock Sections from a Michigan Company!

Ready to start your custom dock build?

You can order all the parts you’ll need for the job from the Alumi-Span website, including aluminum dock sections made in Michigan! To plan out your build, try the dock design tool. If you’re ready to order parts, or if you have questions, call 855-523-2444 or submit a contact form here.

The Benefits of Anodized Aluminum

What are the benefits of anodized aluminum dock sections?

If you are looking for a truly maintenance-free, lifetime dock, it is hard to beat all-anodized aluminum. Anodizing ensures that your dock remains cool no matter what the temperature, and that your dock will look just as good as the day you got it, year after year. Alumi-Span has one of the highest quality anodized aluminum sections you can find. There are several things they do differently than most to ensure the quality and strength of their dock sections. Read more about Alumi-Span’s dock sections in our latest article.

Get Your Aluminum Dock Sections from a Michigan Company!

Ready to start your custom dock build?

You can order all the parts you’ll need for the job from the Alumi-Span website, including aluminum dock sections made in Michigan! To plan out your build, try the dock design tool. If you’re ready to order parts, or if you have questions, call 855-523-2444 or submit a contact form here.

Consider Your Dock Activities

Are you planning on building or upgrading an existing boat dock?

Here are a few things you should think about when designing your dock!

• Docking and Undocking: If you plan on frequently docking and undocking your boat, extra space around the boat will make the process easier and less stressful.
• Storage: Will you be storing other equipment on the dock, like jet skis, kayaks, or fishing gear? Factor in this additional space requirement.
• Entertaining: If you plan on using your dock for socializing and entertaining, you'll need additional space for seating, a small table, or even a grill.

Consult Your Michigan Dock Installation Experts

Whether it be simple questions or complex dock projects, don't hesitate to consult a Michigan dock installation expert, such as Alumi-Span. We can provide valuable advice based on your specific situation and local regulations. To reach out with questions, or if you’re ready to start a project, call 855-523-2444 or submit a contact form here.

Know Your Boat Measurements

Do you know how big your dock needs to be?

Docking your boat should be a smooth and stress-free experience. But if your dock is too small, it can lead to scrapes, bumps, and a lot of frustration. Before you invest in a dock, it's crucial to determine the right size for your boat and your needs.

Here's what to consider when choosing the perfect dock size:

• Length: This is the most important factor. Your dock needs to be at least as long as your boat, but ideally, you'll want a few extra feet for maneuvering when docking and casting off. A good rule of thumb is to add 3-5 feet to your boat's length.
• Beam: This is the width of your boat at its widest point. The dock should be wider than the beam to provide ample walking space and stability. Aim for at least 2 feet wider than the beam on each side.
• Draft: This is the depth of water your boat needs to float. The dock needs to be positioned in water deep enough to accommodate the draft at low tide.
• Lifts: Many boats and other PWC are stored on lifts for ease of use. The dock needs to fit the outside measurements of the lift, especially when making slips.

Consult Your Michigan Dock Installation Experts

Whether it be simple questions or complex dock projects, don't hesitate to consult a Michigan dock installation expert, such as Alumi-Span. We can provide valuable advice based on your specific situation and local regulations. To reach out with questions, or if you’re ready to start a project, call 855-523-2444 or submit a contact form here.

Safety Accessories for Your Boat Dock

Looking for ways to make your dock safer for kids and grandkids?

Dock accessories can help make final safety precautions before the kids hit the lake this summer. All of the following accessories are available in our shop!

Dock End Bumpers: Are the open ends of your dock exposed, leaving the corners of the metal stringers in the open?  Kids can easily get caught on these, turning a fun day at the lake into a traumatic experience.  Cap those open edges with a boat dock end bumper.  These not only child-proof the ends, but also come in different colors, making it a great way to personalize your dock! 

Stairs & Ladders: Do you want a way for the little ones to get in and out of the water safely? Alumi-Span offers several options for stairs or ladders that can work in almost any situation.  These quality products made in the USA won’t leave your loved ones hanging.  Their strength and durability make them a must-have for any dock with kids. 

Corner Sections: Having a platform or seating area at the end of your dock is a wonderful way to have space to sit and enjoy the long days of summer.  However, kids love taking the short cut and leaping over the open corner onto the platform.  Eliminate that safety hazard with a corner section!  The corner section makes a smooth transition from the outgoing dock to a platform without that tempting open space kids love to jump over.

Paddle Board Racks: Do your kids leave their paddle boards lying on the dock or scattered on the shore? Paddle boards left lying around are an unsightly tripping hazard.  Solve this problem with an all-aluminum paddle board rack.  These slide over your dock poles and accommodate two paddle boards. 

Shop Boat Dock Bumpers and More!

Ready to safety-proof your dock for family fun?

Try out our dock design tool, give us a call, or submit a contact form to start your dock project. We can’t wait to help your family enjoy the lake this summer!

Choose Strong & Stable Dock Parts

Is your dock safe for your young family members?

Summer loves the sound of bare feet running down a dock followed by a splash into the water.  While jumping into the lake from the dock is a summer staple, not all docks can hold up to the toll kids take on them.  Alumi-Span has several features that make it able to hold up to the wildest of youngsters.

Quality Cast Parts: We use all quality cast aluminum parts that are engineered in-house.  Quality cast parts are much stronger than thin metal stampings or composite plastic parts.  Quality cast parts aren’t going to bend, break, or slip over time, which is essential for a group of kids having summer fun!

Quality Decking: While some docks try to cut costs by using subpar decking, Alumi-Span chooses only strong decking material for our docks. Cheap plastics will crack and break as children run and leap into the water.  Our structural-grade aluminum, extruded vinyl, and premium lumber can all stand the weight of kids running and jumping from them without cracking, bending, or warping over time.

Quality Build: No manufacturer should cut corners when building their docks.  We use center beams are along the back of the sections that are supported by a rest on the crossarm.  Side stringers use a thicker walled aluminum, and sections have been weight tested to ensure quality and safety.  

Read the full article here!

Shop Quality Parts, Boat Dock Bumpers, and More!

Ready to safety-proof your dock for family fun?

Boat dock safety comes in the form of quality parts and accessories (such as these boat dock bumpers). Give us a call, or submit a contact form to start your dock project. We can’t wait to help your family enjoy the lake this summer!

Planning Your Dock Design

When was the last time your dock got a makeover?

Before shopping for components, make sure you take the time to plan your design. Consider materials like wood, extruded vinyl , or aluminum dock sections.

Other factors to keep in mind are:

• The location of your dock (what are the bottom conditions?)
• The depth of water around the dock (this decides pole heights)
• Any local town or municipal coding requirements
• The average number of boats that will be anchored to the dock if any
• The size of your dock (be sure to stay within the space your property allows)

Getting the size of your dock can be frustrating if you have to measure several times, but you’re in luck! We’ve got our own dock design tool that you can use to get a quote!

Plan Your Dock Design with Alumi-Span

Ready to start the new year with a new dock?

Alumi-Span Docks is your go-to manufacturer for boat dock designs. Whether you’re ready to start building or you have more questions, call (855) 523-2444 or submit a contact form here.

Researching Your Boat Dock Options

Have you been waiting for the right time to install a new boat dock?

Before beginning your design, you’re going to want to consider a few things about your future dock:

• Installation- DIY vs. Professional: Are you planning on installing the dock yourself or hiring a professional to install?  Adding multiple features to your dock can make DIY installation a little more difficult.   Be sure to take this into account when designing your boat dock.
• Demand: Make sure you know the demands of your space! Design your boat dock based on purpose, climate, and weather. It may be that a dock feature you love isn’t really suitable for your property or the main purpose of the dock.
• Features: Be well read when it comes to boat dock features so you can include everything you want! You’ll need to think about the type of dock (aluminum, wood, or vinyl), lighting, seating, slips, platforms, and more.  
• Future Use: Consider what’s in store for future use of your dock, not just what you’re using it for today. If you’re using quality boat dock parts in your design, the dock will be around for many years to come. Leave room for a growing family or expanding fleet in your plans.

Get More Dock Design Tips from Alumi-Span

Ready to start the new year with a new dock?

Alumi-Span Docks is your go-to manufacturer for boat dock designs. Whether you’re ready to start building or you have more questions, call (855) 523-2444 or submit a contact form here.

Fun can be Functional!

Do you dream of a fun, stylish dock for the spring?

If you’re thinking about a new dock design, consider implementing these two functional but stylish options:

• Flagpoles: a flagpole is a way to really make your dock stand out!  Proudly display your patriotism with the included American flag and easily add additional flags to meet your interests or other passions.  
• Corner Sections: tired of the kids leaping the gap where your dock turns, or need a good place to mount a ladder?  Corner sections are your answer! These create a cohesive blend from one area of your dock to the other and improve safety as well!

Check out Your Dock Design Options

Ready to transform your dock into an ideal outdoor living space? 

Alumi-Span Docks is your one-stop-shop for designing boat docks and acquiring materials. To get started, call 855-523-2444 or submit a contact form here.

Three Things to Help Transform Your Boat Dock

Do you feel like your dock looks a little plain? 

Here are three fun options to enhance your dock design:

• Dock lights: solar dock lights are a great way to ensure you’ll have safe boating experiences even at night. If you want to fish early in the morning or enjoy a sunset boat ride, having lights create ambiance and enhance safety. Solar lights for on top of posts or along pathways are great options. 
• Bumpers: bumpers work well to not only protect your boat from open corners or posts, but also to coordinate with other color schemes at your lake house.  Coming in four different colors, there are many options to create the look you want!
• Stairs and Ladders: stairs and ladders can create extra access points to the water anywhere along your dock!  If you have a dog who loves swimming, the stairs are a must have  for it to get on and off the dock with ease.  Creating a swim area for the kids?  Using a ladder allows an easy and safe way to get in and out of the water. Stairs are also much better for elderly folks to get in and out of the water. They come with a hand rail, but extra rails can be added!

Experiment with New Dock Designs

Ready to transform your dock into an ideal outdoor living space? 

Alumi-Span Docks is your one-stop-shop for designing boat docks and acquiring materials. To get started, call 855-523-2444 or submit a contact form here.

Save Money with Quality Materials

Do you know what your boat dock parts are made of?

Hot Dipped Galvanized vs Zinc Plated Bolts

Dock parts made with quality, intently chosen materials can save you money in the long run. They’re often also warrantied by the manufacturer.

Money: if you save a boat load with low-quality boat dock accessories today, you’ll pay for it later. Not only are these cheaper accessories likely to need replacing sooner, but it’s possible they could damage your other equipment or fail unexpectedly. Paying more upfront for quality accessories will save you money and headaches long-term.

Guarantee: Quality materials are more likely to be guaranteed or warrantied by the manufacturer. Part of what you pay for when you get quality materials is the guarantee! Not only is your product protected, but you’ll have peace of mind when you’re out using your dock, boat, and accessories.

Get Guaranteed Parts for Michigan Dock Installation

Alumi-Span uses high quality castings and extrusions in the applications where they work the best, and our alloys are specifically chosen for their intended purpose. We also use proper corrosion resistant fasteners for all applications. This means you can trust the safety and longevity of Alumi-Span parts.

Before you start on your Michigan dock installation, call (855) 523-2444 or submit a contact form here if you need help picking the best parts for the job!

Quality Parts Mean Safety and Durability

Injection Molded Plastic vs Extruded Vinyl

How do quality materials make a difference?

Quality boat dock materials mean quality parts for you to buy! Two of the biggest benefits that quality materials provide are safety and durability. 

Safety: top-quality accessories aren’t just made from great materials, they’re also more likely to go through rigorous safety testing and engineering. Lower quality materials aren’t automatically less safe, but are much less likely to have been tested because that’s an added cost. If you buy cheaper accessories, you could be putting yourself and others at risk.

Durability: low-quality, cheap materials aren’t going to last as long as the good stuff. That’s why durability ties in directly with money and cost. Investing in quality materials buys you something that lasts. You’re more than likely to get your money’s worth out of quality products that are durable and won’t need to be replaced for years.

Choose Safety when Installing Your Michigan Dock

Alumi-Span uses high quality castings and extrusions in the applications where they work the best, and our alloys are specifically chosen for their intended purpose. We also use proper corrosion resistant fasteners for all applications. This means you can trust the safety and longevity of Alumi-Span parts.

Before you start on your Michigan dock installation, call (855) 523-2444 or submit a contact form here if you need help picking the best parts for the job!