Buying a Boat in the Off Season

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 11/2/2020

Do you daydream about your dream boat? Have you been wanting to upgrade your boat and boat dock but have been putting it off? If you’re in the market for a new or used boat, the off season can be the perfect time to start shopping!

Boat Maintenance Tips for the Off-Season

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 10/1/2020

What’s the best time to take care of boat and dock maintenance? During cooler weather? Fall and winter in the Midwest are great times to take care of boat care tasks you might have put off while on the water in the warmer summer months. To prepare your boat for inactivity, read our tips to keep your dock and boat in great shape until spring.

3 Quick Assembly Dock Installation Tips

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 8/31/2020

Do you dread dock installation and removal every year? Is dock installation a chore that you’d rather pay someone else to do for you? Dock installation can be easy if done correctly, with the right type of lightweight dock sections.

The Right Paint to Touch Up Your Boat

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 8/1/2020

This summer, as you’re enjoying some time out on the water thanks to your vessel, make sure to return the favor and take a few hours to give your boat what it needs. Choosing and using the right paint to touch up your boat can add years onto its life, as well as a beautiful finish.

Dock Design and Construction Ideas

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 7/1/2020

Are you planning to build a new boat dock on your waterfront property?

Are you intimidated by the building process?

A boat dock design might seem really technical and complicated, but there aren’t too many differences between a boat dock and a backyard deck. If you’ve tackled that DIY project before, you’re probably already knowledgeable in the factors to build your own boat dock!

The Dock Accessory Every Good Kayaker Needs

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 6/5/2020

Whether you enjoy harrowing adventures down whitewater rapids or gliding across a placid lake, kayaking is a versatile way to experience the outdoors. These vessels have come a long way from their original construction of wood and animal skin. Now,

What is a Boat House and Do You Need One?

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 5/4/2020

Do you have a boat that you take care of like a second home? Are you particular about how your boat is docked, the way it looks, and how often you maintain it?

Like many of our customers, the answer is probably a resounding “yes”! Even if you get your boat serviced regularly, clean it often and make sure that everything is in working order, there’s one more level of protection you could consider: a boat house.

5 Bolt-On Dock Accessories You Need

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 3/30/2020

Are you looking for a way to upgrade your dock? If you’re looking for a unique accessory with long-term benefits, there are many options you can choose to make your lakeside experience better. High-quality durable accessories that are compatible with your dock will let you and your guests of all ages use your dock in all kinds of weather.

Alumi-Span Docks - COVID-19 Precautions

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 3/18/2020

Covid-19 is having a significant impact on many businesses right now. Alumi-Span is a small family owned business in the marine industry. As such, our priority is the safety of our employees, as well as our customers. Due to the nature of how we deliver and distribute our product, face to face customer contact is generally minimal. That being said, we do have walk ins and we are taking every precaution.

This situation is evolving at an unprecedented rate. As the CDC, as well as local and state governments are putting more restrictions in place, Alumi-Span is doing our best comply with all mandates, without affecting the normal flow of business. While there is potential for Covid-19 to cause supply chain issues, staffing problems, and even disrupt essential business travel, that is not the case for us yet. Alumi-Span is still firing on all cylinders and is ready to work hard to earn and keep your business.

What Makes Anodized Aluminum Dock Sections Different?

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 3/3/2020

Anodized aluminum dock sections are one of the best options for a dock system. The combination of light weight, high strength, cool to walk on, and easy stack-ability make this dock design.

How to Build a Boat Dock on a Lake

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 2/3/2020

Do you have a lakefront home, cabin, or camping property? Is your property incomplete without a boat dock? A well-built dock provides a place to tie boats and jet skis, and a flat space for sunbathing and swimming. You want a boat dock that is visually appealing to look at and is safe for your friends and family. Do you want to learn how to build a boat dock on your property? First, you need to know about two types of docks available: stationary and floating.

Hiring a Dock Designer? Ask These Questions First

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 1/3/2020

Asking questions and making sure you have all the information at the start will set you up for an extremely successful relationship with your dock designer. You’re much less likely to face setbacks or disappointments if you set up a good foundation of understanding from the beginning. If you’re looking for expertise in dock designs, give us a call today. We’re ready to help you design the dock of your dreams! Check out our dock design tool!

Avoid Damage to Your Aluminum Boat Dock during Winter

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 12/12/2019

Do you own property with a boat dock in Michigan, Indiana, or Wisconsin?

Piling driven commercial docks are built to withstand ice flows, but most residential aluminum boat docks need to be removed.

If your dock is left in the water in the winter, there is a good change that costly parts will get destroyed! To save yourself the headache of costly repairs and maintenance, consider these tips.

Dock Accessories for Your Kayak or Canoe

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 11/1/2019

Is your dock on a lake or river where the water level fluctuates often?

Do you use your dock for launching a kayak, canoe, or other small craft? If you have concerns about safely launching your small craft from your dock, we can help! There are a variety of boat dock parts that can help protect your family and friends.

6 Classic Boat Dock Designs for Lakes

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 10/1/2019

Do you own lakefront property? Are you considering buying property before next summer? Maybe you’re considering a multi-purpose dock with built-in seating, or a simple dock just for boating and swimming. Whatever you’re hoping for, it’s important for you to know how to build a boat dock so you can enjoy lakefront living dock for years to come! The type of lake or river on which you live or vacation will ultimately determine the type of dock you build, as will the local ordinances. You may also consider what you’re using the dock for – mooring, swimming, fishing, entertaining, or all of the above.

Best Wood for Boat Dock Use

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 8/30/2019

Are you learning how to build a wooden boat dock from scratch? Are you rebuilding an existing dock that has since rotted or needs planks replaced?

If you need to build or rebuild a wooden dock, you want the most durable wood available that will be low maintenance and last a lifetime. Your boat dock sees a lot of abuse from waves, being saturated with water, and storm conditions. Constant moisture is an enemy for all boat dock materials whether they’re wood or composite, and can lead to faster rot and decay.

Choose the right type of wood for a natural looking dock that will be around at your family property for generations - read the full article to learn more!

Best Boating Spots on the Great Lakes

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 7/1/2019

It took a while, but we’ve finally made it to boating season in Michigan!

This is our favorite time of the year! There’s nothing better than putting your swimsuit on, getting on the boat with your family and friends, and hitting the many bodies of water Michigan has to offer.

The Great Lakes are the largest inland freshwater lake systems in the world, stretching all the way from the Midwest to Canada. If you’re trying to find the perfect body of water to anchor your boat, it can get a little overwhelming – but we can help!

Is Your Wooden Dock Ready for Summer?

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 5/31/2019

At Alumi-Span, we share your love for summer- especially that glorious feeling of lounging on your boat dock while dipping your feet into the lake.Thankfully, it’s that time of year again, and if your wooden dock needs any repairs, this is the perfect chance to think about a new design, or new materials. While you’re at it, why not upgrade your dock and add more entertainment features, or widen it for your entire family to enjoy? After all, this is an extension of your home- make it feel that way!

DIY Boat Docks: What You Need to Know

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 4/30/2019

Whether you’ve owned your lakefront property for years or are a new buyer, a boat dock is an important part of your lifestyle. Your boat dock gets a lot of use whether it’s at your summer cabin or your year-round home! Swimming, fishing, and boating… the quality of your boat dock can really determine how much time you’re able to spend enjoying the water. If your dock is a total wreck, or even if it’s just not your style, you have a decision to make: replace the entire thing, or make repairs and upgrades. Don’t be intimidated by the thought of a DIY boat dock!

Pros and Cons of Vinyl Dock Sections

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 4/1/2019

If you’re trying to build your own dock on a budget, consider Vinyl dock sections. There are a number of different types of dock sections on the market but vinyl has consistently proven to provide high quality at low upfront cost. Vinyl boat dock parts are inexpensive and easily replaceable if portions wear out faster than others due to frequent use.

How Much Does a Custom Dock Design Cost?

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 3/1/2019

We get a lot of questions about how much a complete dock system costs, and want to help you make your decision! While there’s no hard and fast rule about how much a custom dock costs, it may be more affordable than you think!

Looking Forward to Summer: Best Boating Destinations in Michigan

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 2/1/2019

Are you tired of the cold, winter weather here in Michigan? Are you looking forward to spring and summer, when you can start getting your boat out into the water and spending some quality time with your friends and family? Did you know that in the Mitten, you are never more than six miles from the nearest body of water? The state is home to the Great Lakes and boasts the nation's longest freshwater shoreline at 3,300 miles. Here are some great places for you to explore when the weather heats up.

Save Money with a Treated Pine Wooden Dock

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 1/2/2019

Are you considering building a boat dock for your lakefront or riverfront property? Do you feel overwhelmed by all the dock section options available? Consider a wooden dock made from treated pine! This type of dock is an economical alternative to some of the more maintenance-free decking options, due to it being made primarily from recycled materials.

Why You Need to Winterize and Remove Your Aluminum Boat Dock

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 11/29/2018

There are many things that can happen if a dock is left in the water for the winter, but the bottom line in most cases is that parts will be destroyed! Ice freezing around a dock does not usually cause the majority of dock damage. In the spring, ice starts to flow and move across the lake, and that’s when your dock or anything else near the shore is in real danger.

How to Know When Your Wood Dock Needs Replacing

Posted by Alumi-Span Docks on 11/1/2018

It’s always difficult to bite the bullet and replace something in your home that’s expensive. This is especially true with a boat dock that’s still functional but has seen much better days. You feel tempted to give it one more season, maybe so you can save up for a really sensational dock design. But when sticking with old faithful potentially puts your equipment, boat, family, and self at risk, you should have more information so you can be confident about your decision.

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