Showing posts with label dock design. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dock design. Show all posts

Saturday, February 15, 2025

Hardware that Works Together

Boat Dock Parts
Why is it important to have high quality hardware?

Alumi-Span is your one-stop-shop for boat dock hardware. Everything is made to work with each other, so your installation experience is seamless.

Complete Hardware Kits

Each hardware component comes with all the necessary parts for a seamless installation. Whether you're installing a ladder, securing a dock post, or assembling a complete dock system, we provide everything you need in one package. This eliminates the hassle of sourcing additional hardware and ensures compatibility across all components.

Comprehensive Range of Products

Alumi-Span offers a diverse selection of hardware to meet various dock requirements. Our product line includes:

  • Ladder Mounting Kits: Designed for the secure and stable attachment of dock ladders.
  • Diagonal Assemblies: Make any 2” pole into a diagonal brace to stabilize your dock.
  • Bumper and Corner Pins: Used to secure dock end bumpers, side bumpers, and corners to dock sections.
  • Replacement Hardware: Replacement hardware for any parts is available in bolt, nut, and washer sets


Why Choose Alumi-Span Boat Dock Parts?


Alumi-Span boat dock parts are more than just a collection of nuts and bolts—they’re a commitment to quality and reliability. Whether you're setting up a new dock or upgrading an existing one, Alumi-Span's hardware is a dependable choice.

If you have questions about our products, or if you’re ready to place an order, call 855-523-2444 or submit a contact form here.

Saturday, February 1, 2025

High-Quality Dock Hardware

Boat Dock Parts
Is all boat dock hardware the same?

The answer is no! When it comes to building or maintaining a dock, choosing the right hardware is just as important choosing the right sections. Alumi-Span offers a wide range of hardware options, all designed to make dock installation and maintenance straightforward and efficient.

Corrosion-Resistant Components

Alumi-Span’s hardware is built to last, even in the harshest conditions. All nuts, bolts, and fittings are hot-dipped galvanized, providing superior protection against corrosion caused by water and weather exposure. This galvanization process ensures that the hardware remains strong and reliable, giving you peace of mind for years to come.

Simplified Installation with Uniform Bolts

All our bolts are standardized to the same size, meaning you only need one wrench to handle your entire dock assembly. This not only saves time, but also reduces the need for carrying multiple tools, which makes the building process run smoother.


Why Choose Alumi-Span Boat Dock Parts?


Alumi-Span boat dock parts are more than just a collection of nuts and bolts—they’re a commitment to quality and reliability. Whether you're setting up a new dock or upgrading an existing one, Alumi-Span's hardware is a dependable choice.

If you have questions about our products, or if you’re ready to place an order, call 855-523-2444 or submit a contact form here.

Monday, January 15, 2024

Planning Your Dock Design

Dock Designs
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.

Monday, January 1, 2024

Researching Your Boat Dock Options

Dock Designs
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.

Friday, December 15, 2023

Fun can be Functional!

Dock Design
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.

Friday, December 1, 2023

Three Things to Help Transform Your Boat Dock

Dock Designs
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.

Friday, June 16, 2023

Considerations for Your Boat Dock Design

dock designs, boat dock designs, dock design

Designing a boat dock but don’t know where to start?

Do you want something with more “wow” factor than a traditional boat dock?

Here are some options to consider when you begin designing your boat dock:

1. Maintenance and aesthetic appeal: If you want to spend more time enjoying your dock and less time working on it, the type of material you choose is crucial. Wood decking is aesthetically pleasing and traditional, but also required annual power washing or stain every 3-4 years. In contrast, aluminum decking can be set out and essentially forgotten about. You can also get aluminum docks that mimic the look of wood if you prefer the natural look.

2. Your dock’s location: It’s important to accommodate the unique characteristics of the body of water where it your dock will be installed. Factors like wind, waves, shore geology, the lake bottom, and water level are critical in the planning process. Depth, drop off, and seasonal water level changes should also be considered. 

Read the full list on our website!

Achieve the Perfect Dock Design with Alumi-Span Docks

Dock design is an important part of the dock building process. A large, rectangular shape is easy to build and functional, but does it really serve your needs, or could you have something more unique that will impress your friends and neighbors and combine your outdoor hobbies?

If you’re planning a dock, Alumi-Span can help you make the choices to fit your lifestyle and budget. We’ve been a name you can trust since 1956. With our dock design tool, you can customize your dock to fit your needs.

Contact us or call our experts at 855-523-2444 today.

Thursday, June 1, 2023

Dock Design Ideas for Summer

dock design, dock designs, aluminum dock, aluminum boat docks

Getting ready for another summer at the lake?

Does your dock need repairs, or do you need to replace it?

Rather than dreading this chore, take this as an opportunity to build a boat dock that meets all your family’s needs and as an investment in your property.

Building a new dock is exciting! You’re probably already looking forward to swimming, boating, or entertaining on your dream dock. If you’ve thought about it for a long time, you may already have design ideas, but there are some important factors to consider before you put your bank account behind your dream dock design.

  1. Budget: Materials for aluminum boat docks make up a huge chunk of your overall budget. Luckily, while aluminum dock sections may cost more up front than their wooden counterparts, they don’t require as much maintenance and will last longer.
  2. Dock plans: What are you going to use your dock for? Is it only a place where you’ll access your watercraft, or one where you’ll also be spending time relaxing or hosting get-togethers? If you want to use it for both, we recommend an aluminum dock because it’s lightweight, easy to clean, and doesn’t get as hot in the summer sun as other materials.

Read the full list on our website!

Dock design is an important part of the dock building process. A large, rectangular shape is easy to build and functional, but does it really serve your needs, or could you have something more unique that will impress your friends and neighbors and combine your outdoor hobbies?

If you’re planning a dock, Alumi-Span can help you make the choices to fit your lifestyle and budget. We’ve been a name you can trust since 1956. With our dock design tool, you can customize your dock to fit your needs.

Tuesday, November 15, 2022

Guide to Choosing the Right Dock Design

dock design

Are you daydreaming about the perfect dock design for your home or vacation home?

Budget is a critical factor to consider when planning your dock. The design, materials, and size of your dock will all affect the bottom line, but so will maintenance. 

High-quality materials will perform better overall and typically have lower maintenance needs. If your budget has a hard limit, you may need to compromise on size or design to get the best quality dock within your budget.

If you’re planning a dock, Alumi-Span can help you make the choices to fit your lifestyle and budget. We’ve been a name you can trust since 1956. Some of our docks are still in use after over 50 years! 

Visit our website to learn more about the factors that should influence your dock design choice, and that definitely affect your budget.


Friday, November 4, 2022

Bring Your Dream Dock Design to Life

dock design

Are you dreaming about summer fun on your new boat dock?

Building a new dock is exciting! You’re probably already looking forward to swimming, boating, or entertaining on your dream dock. If you’ve thought about it for a long time, you may already have design ideas, but there are some important factors to consider before you put your bank account behind your dream dock design

  • Purpose
  • Location
  • Type
  • Materials
  • Budget 

Visit our website to learn more about how to choose the best dock design for your dream dock!


Friday, July 15, 2022

Add Living Space to Your Home with an Outdoor Party Dock


Do you want a space for the whole family on the lake this summer?

For those who don’t want to swim or go on the boat but still want to be near the water, a party dock is a great option. From grilling, to sitting by a firepit, there are so many options for bringing people together this summer.

Homeowners that already have some handyman skills may be able to build their own dock if it’s a smaller floating dock. However, building a dock isn’t an easy process, especially if you don’t have experience with waterfront structures.

More often than not, the best route is to hire a professional. Although it may cost you a bit more upfront, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing that your dock is secure and properly built. We love and recommend anodized aluminum to nearly all of our customers for its long-lasting quality.

Find out how we can help with your dock design on our website!

Anodized Aluminum Dock Sections: Nothing’s Lighter, Nothing’s Cooler, Nothing’s Stronger

Alumi-Span originated the all-aluminum boat dock in 1956. Don't be fooled by cheaper "non-anodized" units! Unlike some competitive units, our docks are made with a strong alloy and our acid-etched anodizing process will not turn black over time. Our dock boards interlock together and then are fastened with stainless fasteners. Tough adhesive is added to eliminate squeaks and rattles.

We manufacture our products using quality methods and materials, and that’s why many Alumi-Span aluminum boat docks are still in use after more than 50 years!

Friday, July 1, 2022

How to Add a Party Dock to Your Summer Vacation Property


Do you want your lakefront property to be a home away from home this summer?

Are you looking forward to hosting cookouts, family reunions, and having all your friends over to enjoy lake life with you?

Building a party deck or dock platform on your dock can add value to your home. From a small sitting area to space for 20 people, this can be an easy and painless process. 

Many traditional dock platforms use long cross-arms and multiple posts that must be driven in underneath the dock.  These hold the dock up, but there are much easier and more efficient ways to accomplish the look you want.

Read the full article about dock design on our website!

Anodized Aluminum Dock Sections: Nothing’s Lighter, Nothing’s Cooler, Nothing’s Stronger

Alumi-Span originated the all-aluminum boat dock in 1956. Don't be fooled by cheaper "non-anodized" units! Unlike some competitive units, our docks are made with a strong alloy and our acid-etched anodizing process will not turn black over time. Our dock boards interlock together and then are fastened with stainless fasteners. Tough adhesive is added to eliminate squeaks and rattles.

We manufacture our products using quality methods and materials, and that’s why many Alumi-Span aluminum boat docks are still in use after more than 50 years!


Monday, August 16, 2021

Boost Your Boat Dock with Boating Accessories


Need accessories to make your boat dock more accessible for your entire family?

Want to boost the safety of your dock with ladders, lights, and dock bumpers?

Adding accessories is a great way to make your dock more practical and easier to use. It also makes it safer for your family and friends this summer.

Satisfied with your own dock but looking for other places to take the boat this summer? We can help with that, too! Visit our website to read about our recommendations for Midwest boating destinations!

Hitting the road with the family this summer is a great way to get outdoors and spend some quality time together. If you’ve got a boat you can tow, you can visit many lakes and rivers that are sure to create special memories for you and your family.

Alumi-Span Builds Boat Docks and Creates Memories


From our general boating tips to our more specific dock-related information, we’re your one stop shop for everything boating in the Midwest. If you need accessories for your boat dock or need to have a new one built and installed so you can fully enjoy the summer, we can help!

We’ve been providing Midwest families with hours of fun for over 50 years, and we can help you design and build a dock that perfectly suits your needs. Contact us today to get started! You can use our dock designer app to get a better idea of the specs you need, and we deliver docks to homes all over Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, and Ohio.

Monday, August 2, 2021

River Boating in the Midwest


Looking for something new to do this summer?

Tired of visiting the same lakes and destinations over and over? Consider some of the large rivers that the Midwest has to offer!

Prime destinations for swimming, boating, fishing, and picnicking, you can take a day road trip with your family, or several days camping and boating to get the full experience.

Learn more on our website!

Need boat dock parts or accessories to make the most of this summer? We can help! We’ve been providing Midwest families with hours of fun for over 50 years, and we can help you design and build a dock that perfectly suits your needs. 

Contact us today to get started! You can use our dock designer app to get a better idea of the specs you need, and we deliver docks to homes all over Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, and Ohio.

Friday, July 16, 2021

Make Your Dock Design Unique with Additions


Designing a new boat dock?

Want to make it stand out and make it the big talking point among your friends and neighbors?

Dock design is an important part of the dock building process. A large, rectangular shape is easy to build and functional, but does it really serve your needs, or could you have something more unique that will impress your friends and neighbors and combine your outdoor hobbies?

Visit our website to read more about unique dock design features!

For nearly 60 years, Alumi-Span has provided entire dock systems and component parts for docks to property owners who want their docks to last. Need assistance selecting the right Alumi-Span products for your dock? Get in touch with us at 855-523-2444.

Our knowledge about boat docks can help you construct the perfect dock that will serve you for years. If you’ve tried other boat dock parts and were disappointed in their performance, it’s time to go with Alumi-Span. Contact us today!

Thursday, July 1, 2021

Get the Perfect Dock with Our Dock Design Tool

dock designs, boat dock designs, dock parts, boat dock parts

Planning your new boat dock design?

Before shopping, make sure you take the type to plan your dock design. Consider materials like wood, composite, or aluminum dock sections.

Other factors to keep in mind are:

  • Location of your dock (will it be in the full sun, or shade?)
  • Depth of water around the dock (do you need a railing?)
  • Any local town or municipal coding requirements or permits needed
  • Average number of boats that will be anchored to the dock
  • What size is your dock?


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

Need more dock design tips? Read the full article on our website!

Our knowledge about boat docks can help you construct the perfect dock that will serve you for years. If you’ve tried other boat dock parts and were disappointed in their performance, it’s time to go with Alumi-Span. Contact us today!

Saturday, August 1, 2020

Are You Using the Right Paint for Boat Touch-Ups?


A boat is a big investment, so the idea of messing up a paint job is enough to make people skip this step. What if I get the wrong type of paint? What if I don’t allow it to dry in time? What if it’s not waterproof? These are all valid concerns but touching up your boat is a lot easier than you realize. 

There are two types of paints, above water and below. Paint for above the waterline is oil-based and helps protect the boat against UV rays as well as give strength and flexibility to your vessel. Below water paint, particularly for the bottom of boats, has anti-fouling properties. This means that they are designed to slowly release copper, which prevents the growth of organisms like barnacles. Left unchecked, these organisms can cause drag to your boat, meaning it will take more fuel to move your boat through the water. 

For more information about how to paint your boat, as well as a few tips to keep in mind, click here.


Friday, July 17, 2020

Don’t Skip a Step when Planning Your Dock Design!

Building a new boat dock?

There’s a lot of planning involved in designing a dock. Luckily, we’ve got the information you need to consider before you buy materials. We’ve also got a custom dock design tool on our website to make the planning easier!

Before shopping, make sure you take the type to plan your design. Consider materials like wood, composite, or aluminum dock sections.

Other factors to keep in mind are:

  • Location of your dock (will it be in the full sun, or shade?)
  • Depth of water around the dock (do you need a railing?)
  • Any local town or municipal coding requirements or permits needed
  • Average number of boats that will be anchored to the dock
  • What size is your dock?

Getting the size of your dock can be frustrating if you get it incorrect and 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!

Read the full article on our website!

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!...