What are crossarms and uprights?
How do you use them when you build a boat dock?
Among the structural components that ensure a dock’s stability are crossarms and uprights. These parts work together to create a sturdy framework capable of withstanding environmental challenges, such as waves, wind, and varying water levels.
Crossarms: The Horizontal Backbone
Crossarms serve as horizontal support beams that span between upright posts. They are essential for:
- Distributing Weight Evenly. Crossarms connect the uprights and help distribute the dock's weight. This ensures stability, especially under heavy weight.
- Structural Integrity. By linking the uprights, crossarms reduce lateral (side-to-side) movement caused by water currents or wind.
- 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.
Uprights: The Vertical Supports
Uprights, or dock posts, provide vertical stability and anchor the dock to the lakebed. Their functions include:
- Height Adjustment. Uprights allow docks to be leveled according to water depth and seasonal changes. Docks with adjustable legs simplify installation and removal.
- 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.
- Load-Bearing. Uprights support the entire dock, including the dock platform itself, accessories, and any weight applied during use.
Installation Notes
When assembling a dock, the crossarms and uprights are typically pre-assembled into an “H” frame, known as a “standard assembly.” This design makes the overall installation simpler, as sections can be added on while maintaining alignment and stability. You should use bottom plates and braces ensures that the dock remains secure, even in challenging conditions such as deep water or uneven lakebeds.
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!