Aluminum docks – The Best Choice?

When deciding on decking for your new aluminum docks, you have many choices ranging from plastic docks to wood docks to aluminum docks. The weight of the decking, upfront and maintenance costs, rotting, and upkeep are all factors to think about when comparing decking. Due to these factors as a whole, aluminum docks and vinyl docks with aluminum construction tend be the most high quality choice for dock decking. This is because aluminum and vinyl decking tend to be lighter than wood, composite, or plastic decking and therefore are easier to remove for inspection or storage. Vinyl and aluminum docks are also resistant to rotting, decay, and paint fading/damage. Finally, vinyl and aluminum docks will not rust, twist, or warp over the lifespan of the decking and requires no maintenance beyond that preferred by the dock owner.

Although vinyl and aluminum docks tend to be the most high quality choice for dock decking, many dock owners also consider wood decking or even plastic decking. Wood decking feels more natural under your feet and tends to be less expensive to purchase upfront. However, over time, it is important to know that wood tends to fade and requires more maintenance than other types of decking. The upfront cost of wood decking may be appealing, but the maintenance costs of keeping up with wood decking is often greater than either plastic or aluminum decking. In general, you would need to power wash your wood decking annually and apply a finish or stain every three to four years.

Besides taking into account the maintenance of your new decking, it is important to also think about the safety and use of your new dock. Docks are used for many reasons, including access to a boat or pontoon, fishing, swimming, work, special events, sunbathing, relation, and more. Owners of wood docks need to watch for warping, rotting, splinters, and nails over time. This may mean that dock users need to be extra careful when using the dock or walking along the decking.

Along with wood decking, dock owners can also choose plastic decking. Plastic docks tend to require less maintenance than wood docks, as the plastic does not need to be sanded or refinished. However, plastic docks are not maintenance free. Plastic docks need to be cleaned often so that mold and mildew do not grow. In addition, some plastic decking can be prone to cracking.

While wood and plastic docks might be a good solution for the short term, vinyl and aluminum docks are a great solution that is both high quality and maintenance free for a long period of time. At Recreational Services LLC, we proudly sell maintenance free vinyl docks, made of aluminum construction and stainless steel and zinc plated hardware. We sell this decking option in three colors, including white, gray, and tan. Vinyl docks are a great choice for decking, because vinyl docks have the flexibility for custom layouts and design. Vinyl docks are also a non-skid decking that can withstand waves and storms. Finally, because aluminum dock construction requires no maintenance and is long lasting, vinyl docks are resistant to fading, rotting, warping and nails.

When you’re ready to purchase your new decking, please call Recreational Services at 1 (231) 633-1665. Our company is #1 in dock sales for Northern Michigan and is an authorized TriMet Dock dealer specializing in TriMet Dock sales. When purchasing a dock from us, we offer a complimentary waterfront consultation in order to personally measure water depth and assess your waterfront. This allows us to provide you with an exact quote and take the time needed to discuss the best options for you and your new dock.

Once you’ve chosen your new decking, you might be looking for additional accessories to make your dock complete. In addition to offering the lowest prices on top of the line vinyl docks, Recreational Services also offers many accessories. Those accessories include dock patios and ladders, platforms for docks, custom dock steps, dock benches and bumpers, and kayak or stand up paddleboard racks. If you don’t see a specific accessory you’re looking for, then don’t worry. We are able to make custom accessories to go with your new dock and have designed everything from boat slips to hammocks!

Please call us at 1 (231) 633-1665 or come visit us at 216 E Front ST #201, Traverse City, MI 49684.

We can’t wait to help you with your new dock!

References

Your complete guide to decking choices. Shore Master. http://shoremaster.com/your-complete-guide-to-dock-decking-choices/.