Question 1

Why the name American Muscle Docks & Fabrication?

Accepted Answer

The name reflects who we are and how we build.American means American workers and U.S. sourced steel whenever possible. We believe in building products here, by people who take pride in the work.Muscle means strength. We design and build dock systems and components to be overbuilt, not minimum spec. Our docks are engineered for durability, load capacity, and real world marine conditions.Fabrication means we are the fabricator. We are not a reseller or an assembler. We design, cut, weld, and build the majority of our products in house. At our core, we are a fabrication facility that specializes in marine fabrications, docks, lifts, and heavy duty waterfront structures.

Question 2

Why is your location in West Virginia good for the customer?

Accepted Answer

Our location in West Virginia is a major advantage for our customers.West Virginia allows some of the lowest production costs in the United States for hard goods manufacturing. That means we can invest in better materials, heavier steel, stronger components, and more robust fabrication methods while still keeping pricing competitive.Because our costs are lower at the manufacturing level, we do not have to cut corners to hit a price point. We can build stronger systems that are designed for real world marine use, not minimum spec designs.Even when shipping costs are added, most customers still receive a very fair end price with a noticeably higher quality product compared to many competitors. Simply put, our location allows us to deliver better value, stronger construction, and longer lasting dock systems.

Question 3

Why choose American Muscle Docks & Fabrication over another dock company?

Accepted Answer

As a customer, you have many choices when it comes to boat dock systems, and we encourage you to compare our products, designs, and pricing. Doing so usually makes the value we provide very clear.We may not be the best fit for every single project, and when that happens, we will respectfully bow out and point you toward a better source. We believe honesty matters more than forcing a sale.For most customers, you are buying a dock system built to last. That does not always mean the cheapest price upfront. It means long term value, durability, and fewer problems over time. If you are looking for strength, longevity, and a company with a long standing reputation in marine fabrication, we are a strong fit.

Question 4

What boat dock products do you hold patents for?

Accepted Answer

We currently hold seven (7) total utility and design patents covering multiple proprietary boat dock products and systems. These patents protect designs and functionality developed in house and refined through real world use.Our patented products include:·       Dock Flash·       5-Series Muscle Ramp·       Simple Dock Series·       RFP Structural DockThese patents reflect our commitment to engineering original solutions, not copying existing designs. When you purchase one of our patented products, you are getting a system built around protected designs that are proven, purpose built, and not available anywhere else.

Question 5

How are you connected to Follansbee Dock Systems?

Accepted Answer

American Muscle Docks & Fabrication has deep roots tied directly to Follansbee Dock Systems.Under our previous company name, Valley Manufacturing Inc., we served as the primary metal fabricator for Follansbee Dock Systems beginning in 1994. For nearly two decades, we fabricated the metal components used across Follansbee’s boat dock product lines, building firsthand knowledge of dock design, fabrication, and long term performance.In 2012, Valley Manufacturing Inc. purchased Follansbee Dock Systems. Following the acquisition, the company was rebranded as American Muscle Docks & Fabrication to reflect our identity as a vertically integrated marine fabrication company.This history means we are not new to the boat dock industry. Our experience spans decades of fabrication, design, and real world dock manufacturing, carried forward into the American Muscle Docks brand.

Question 6

Who is Captain Docky?

Accepted Answer

Captain Docky is our mascot and the friendly face of American Muscle Docks & Fabrication. He is a happy wooden pile pole character that represents our marine roots and hands on culture.We chose a Captain because captains steer the boat, and we steer customers to the right dock solutions. Captain Docky reflects how we approach our work, knowledgeable, approachable, and focused on guiding people to the right answer.Captain Docky is also our AI chatbot assistant. He helps answer common questions, points customers toward the right products, and makes navigating our site easier. He is a fun expression of our company culture, because we believe you can build serious, heavy duty products and still enjoy the work.

Question 7

Are you open to working with dock installers, resellers, or other dock companies?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We are always open to working with qualified dock installers, resellers, marinas, and other waterfront companies who want to team up with us.We specialize in designing and manufacturing boat dock hardware, components, and complete dock systems, and we recognize that strong local partners are often the best way to serve customers efficiently. By working together, installers and resellers can leverage our engineered products, fabrication capabilities, and patented systems while focusing on local sales, installation, and service.If you are a dock installer, contractor, marina, or waterfront business looking for a reliable manufacturing partner, we are interested in exploring opportunities that help both sides grow and ultimately deliver better results for the customer.

Question 8

What is a Docktor™?

Accepted Answer

A Docktor™ is a dock specialist dedicated to the health and long-term performance of docks and marinas.

Question 9

What dock systems do we build?

Accepted Answer

American Muscle Docks offers floating boat dock systems in wood, structural composite, steel channel, steel truss, and aluminum. Price depends on the type of material used to build the dock, with wood being the least expensive and aluminum being the most expensive. We also manufacture metal dock hardware in which you can buy parts and pieces and build your own dock.

Question 10

Can you use metal docks in salt water?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the objective of a floating dock is to keep the dock's frame and decking above the water. Though water may splash onto the metal, the galvanized metal coating will hold up for many years. Wood, aluminum or stainless steel is preferred in extreme salt water conditions.

Question 11

What types of Wood Dock hardware do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We manufacture two grades of wood dock hardware.1. Standard Hardware is made with 1/4” x 5” steel. Wood as thick as 3” can be used. Wood docks that are in moderately rough areas and have medium size boats should use this hardware. Inside corners use a mitered gusset for strength. Male corners use one 3/4” connecting tab, and female corners use two 1/2” tabs.2. Heavy Duty Hardware is made with 1/4” x 5” steel. Wood as thick as 3” can be used. Wood docks that are in rough areas and have larger size boats should use this hardware. Inside corners use a mitered gusset for strength. Male corners use two 3/4” connecting tabs, and female corners use three 1/2” tabs. Both Standard and Heavy-Duty Hardware use 1/2" carriage bolts. We make hardware in galvanized steel, stainless steel and aluminum. We also specialize in making custom hardware to your specifications.

Question 12

What differentiates Steel Truss from Wood Dock hardware?

Accepted Answer

Steel Truss Hardware is the same quality as our standard Wood Dock Hardware with the exception of a 12” plate. Hardware is made of 1/4” steel with 3/4” male tabs and 1/2” female tabs. We also specialize in making custom parts and pieces.

Question 13

What size lumber should I use?

Accepted Answer

American Muscle Docks hardware can accommodate a minimum of 2” x 6” to 3” x 12” nominal lumber. We can make special hardware for lumber exceeding the above sizes. Typically, 2” x 8” is the most commonly used lumber for most dock applications. Water conditions may demand larger lumber or even doubling the lumber to gain strength.

Question 14

What is our warranty?

Accepted Answer

Our steel is warranted for one year, and we will replace the part if found to be defective. All metal is galvanized, which is the process of applying a protective zinc coating to steel or iron, in order to prevent rusting. Other products may come with their own individual warranty.

Question 15

What are the ADA Guidelines for Floating Docks and Gangways?

Accepted Answer

Ensuring ADA compliance for your marine facility involves adhering to specific federal standards designed to provide equitable access to public accommodations, such as marinas and boat launches. Essential requirements include establishing at least one accessible route with a minimum clear width of 36 inches, using firm and slip-resistant decking materials, and installing engineered transition plates to manage elevation changes. Gangways are subject to unique exceptions regarding the standard 1:12 slope requirement; for instance, the maximum slope rule may be waived if the gangway exceeds 80 feet in length (or 30 feet for facilities with fewer than 25 slips). To fully understand these legal obligations, including the "20% rule" for renovations and required slip counts, please review our detailed guides on ADA Compliance for Floating Boat Docks and ADA Accessibility Standards for Gangways and Marinas.

Question 16

Gangway Compliance with Applicable Codes and Standards

Accepted Answer

American Muscle Docks & Fabrication designs and fabricates aluminum gangways for pedestrian shore to dock access. Gangways are professionally engineered, fabricated by AWS certified welders, and produced under a documented Quality Assurance program. While we are not an ANSI certified manufacturer, our gangways are designed to meet applicable engineering, OSHA General Industry, and ADA accessibility requirements when specified, including considerations for slope, width, handrails, edge protection, and slip resistance. Multiple gangway configurations are available, and certain models may not meet all regulatory or accessibility requirements unless explicitly designed for those criteria. Customers are encouraged to identify applicable codes, standards, or project specifications at the time of quotation to ensure the correct gangway configuration is supplied. Final compliance with site specific codes, regulations, or accessibility requirements is dependent on installation conditions, system layout, and communicated project requirements.

Question 17

Are all of your products made by you or in the USA?

Accepted Answer

American Muscle Docks manufactures dock systems, gangways, and fabricated steel and aluminum components in the United States with American-made materials. That is the core of our business.Some hardware components and accessories are sourced both domestically and internationally. These items are selected to meet our performance standards, maintain availability, and keep overall system costs fair to the consumer. These items are identified where applicable. All products sold by American Muscle Docks are specified, supported, and backed by our team.

Question 18

What is the Mr. Lifter Jet Ski Lift?

Accepted Answer

The Mr. Lifter Jet Ski Lift is a proven, heavy duty personal watercraft lift that has been in service since 1979. It is built for long term reliability and ease of use. The jet ski lift rotates a full 360 degrees, making it easy to position and load from different angles. It has a 1,600 pound lift capacity and is available with either a manual hoist or an electric hoist option. This is a true heavy duty model designed for durability, stability, and smooth operation.

Question 19

What is the Kayak Launch Dock?

Accepted Answer

The Kayak Launch Dock is designed specifically for residential applications. It makes getting in and out of your kayak easier, safer, and more comfortable compared to stepping in from shore or a full height dock. It also provides a convenient place to stage and store your kayak when not in use. This is a simple, user friendly solution for homeowners who want easy water access without a full boat dock.

Question 20

What size dock projects do you handle?

Accepted Answer

We handle everything from small, simple residential docks to very large commercial and marina projects. Our work ranges from single dock sections and short shoreline installs all the way up to projects involving several thousand linear feet of dock installed at one time. Whether you need a basic personal dock or a large scale, multi section system, we have the equipment, fabrication capacity, and experience to deliver it.

Question 21

Can I leave my floating dock in the water year round?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your climate and ice conditions. In areas with freeze-up or moving ice, we strongly recommend removing the dock before the water freezes to prevent damage. In mild climates, many customers leave docks in the water year-round. If you are unsure, tell us your lake and region, and we will recommend the safest plan.

Question 22

How long do your docks last?

Accepted Answer

Our docks are built for long term use. Lifespan depends on materials, water conditions, and how the dock is used. With proper installation and basic maintenance, many of our dock systems last for decades.

Question 23

Do I need a permit to install a dock?

Accepted Answer

Permit requirements vary by state, county, municipality, HOA, and lake authority. Some locations require a permit for any shoreline structure, while others have size and placement limits. We recommend checking with your local permitting office or lake authority before ordering. If you need drawings or specs for your permit application, we can provide them.

Question 24

What is the difference between wood, composite, aluminum, and steel docks?

Accepted Answer

·       Wood decking has a classic look and is often the most budget friendly, but it may require staining or sealing over time.·       Composite decking is low maintenance, resists rot, and stays consistent season to season.·       Steel frames are extremely strong and are a great fit for heavy loads, longer spans, and rougher water.·       Aluminum frames are lightweight and corrosion resistant.If you tell us your shoreline, wave action, and how you plan to use the dock, we will recommend the best material combination.

Question 25

What is the typical lead time for a dock order?

Accepted Answer

Lead times vary by season, project size, and customization level. In addition, the design and layout stage can take time, especially for custom or larger projects. We recommend starting the design process well ahead of when you actually need to purchase so there is plenty of time to review layouts, make adjustments, and plan installation. We will give you an estimated build and ship timeline when you request a quote. Peak season often has longer lead times, so ordering many months early helps.

Question 26

How do I maintain my floating dock?

Accepted Answer

Maintenance is simple and mostly visual.·       Rinse and remove debris as needed.·       Inspect hardware periodically and tighten if needed.·       Check floats for damage.·       For wood decking, re-seal or stain as recommended.

Question 27

What tools do I need to install my floating dock?

Accepted Answer

Most installs require basic hand tools such as a tape measure, drill, socket set, wrenches, and levels. Larger systems may require equipment for moving sections into the water.

Question 28

Can I customize the shape and size of my dock?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can build custom layouts to match your shoreline and how you use the dock, including straight runs, L and T shapes, swim platforms, and multiple slips. If you have a sketch or measurements, we can help you design the right configuration.

Question 29

Can I see examples before I buy?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can share photos, videos, and examples of past builds. In some cases, you may be able to visit our facility by appointment to see materials, frames, and components in person.

Question 30

How do I know what floating dock size I need?

Accepted Answer

Dock sizing depends on boat length, water depth, wave action, and how you plan to use the dock. If you share your boat specs, shoreline measurements, and typical water level changes, we can recommend a layout and flotation plan.

Question 31

What floating dock anchoring options do you offer?

Accepted Answer

Anchoring depends on water depth, bottom type, and seasonal changes. Options may include pipe legs, winch systems, deadweights, augers, or shoreline anchoring. We will recommend an anchoring plan that matches your site conditions.

Question 32

Will the floating dock handle rough water and changing water levels?

Accepted Answer

Floating docks are designed to rise and fall with water levels. Performance in rough water depends on frame strength, flotation, anchoring, and layout. If your lake has heavy boat traffic or wave action, we can design for increased rigidity and stability.

Question 33

Do you install docks, or is it DIY?

Accepted Answer

We support both. We specialize in selling dock hardware kits that allow customers to source their lumber locally and build their dock themselves. Many customers choose this option to save on shipping costs and customize materials while still using our engineered hardware. We also support full dock systems and professional installation options. If you prefer professional installation, we can discuss options based on your location and the project scope.

Question 34

Do you offer other products besides docks?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In addition to docks and dock hardware, we offer a range of related products to help serve as a one stop shop for our customers. This includes items such as apparel, wagons, dock accessories, and other waterfront related products.Beyond what is listed on our website, we can also source many additional products and options through our supplier network. If you are looking for something specific and do not see it online, ask us. In many cases, we can source it, bundle it with your order, and simplify the buying process.

Question 35

Can I expand my boat dock later?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Modular dock systems are designed for expansion. If you think you may add sections later, tell us up front so we can design the starting layout to make future expansion easier.

Question 36

What information should I have ready when requesting a quote?

Accepted Answer

To give you an accurate quote, it helps to know:·       Your location and water type, lake, river, pond·       Approximate water depth at the dock site·       Water level changes during the season·       Desired dock length and layout·       Any budget restraints or target budget range·       Boat type and length if adding slips·       Shoreline type and access for delivery. If you do not have everything, that is fine. We can walk you through it.

Question 37

How Do I Order the Correct Pile Guide Size?

Accepted Answer

Ordering the correct pile guide size is critical for proper dock movement and long term performance. Here is how to do it correctly.Step 1: Measure Your Pile DiameterMeasure the outside diameter of the piling, not the circumference.Use calipers or a tape measure straight across the center of the pile. If using a tape, measure the circumference and divide by 3.14 to get the diameter.Common pile sizes are:8 inch10 inch12 inch14 inchDo not assume size. Always measure.Step 2: Account for Swelling and IrregularitiesWood piles are rarely perfectly round. Treated lumber can swell over time.If your pile measures:9.5 inches, it is likely a nominal 10 inch pile.11.75 inches, it is likely a nominal 12 inch pile.Always measure at multiple heights. Use the largest measurement.Step 3: Choose the Correct Inside DimensionYour pile guide inside opening must be larger than the actual pile pole diameter.Recommended clearance:at least 1 inch total clearance for most residential docks.at least 2 inches of clearance in rough water or tidal areas.Example:If your pile measures 10 inches in diameter, you should order a pile guide with at least an 11-inch inside opening. When ordering from us you want to order the next size up piling guide hoop compared to your pile diameter. Ex. You have a 10 inch pile pole, you would order a 12 pile guide option, 14 inch pile pole you would order the 16 pile guide option, and so on. Too tight and the dock binds.Too loose and the dock rocks excessively.Step 4: Consider Wave and Water Level ConditionsIf you are in:High current areasHeavy boat traffic zonesTidal waterAreas with fluctuating lake levelsAdd additional clearance so the dock can move freely without hanging up.Binding causes structural stress. That is how frames crack and welds fail

Question 38

What is the AMD Dock Designer tool?

Accepted Answer

Our Dock Designer is a free 3D dock design tool that lets you plan and visualize your perfect floating boat dock layout using real materials and accessories. You can customize the size and layout, decking, frame type, and add accessories like rub rails, cleats, and ramps. How do I use the dock builder?Use the tool on a desktop or laptop in Chrome, Firefox, or Edge. It is not optimized for phones. Is the pricing accurate?The prices shown are estimates based on your design and chosen materials. Final pricing may differ once we add actual shipping costs, special fabrication, or necessary adjustments. What materials can I choose?Design with Steel Truss, Southern Yellow Pine, Reinforced Polymeric Frame, and Steel Channel Frame dock options. Can I get a quote on my design?Yes, hit “Request Quote” in the tool. We review your layout and provide a custom quote for your dock and shipping. How do I access saved designs?Log into your account with your email and password and visit the Projects section to find saved dock designs. Why won’t the tool let me build a certain dock layout?The designer enforces real engineering and installation rules on how sections can join. If something seems wrong, contact us and we’ll help. Is there a cost to use the Dock Designer?No. It’s completely free to use, save designs, print them, or request a custom dock quote. Can I use this to help receive a dock permit? Yes, you can print the .PDF version and add to your submittal for a permit. Showing the total size, lengths, and widths of the total dock footprint is what most permits require.

Question 39

How much flotation do I need?

Accepted Answer

This depends on the material used to construct the dock, intended use of the dock, and desired height off of the water. Our team can help to sort out the solutions to the issues impacting your dock project. Give us a call for assistance, but if you want to work through a general dock scenario – we offer the following:For a general dock with the use of a few people, we aim for about 30 lbs. per square foot to calculate flotation for a dock using a wood frame and wood decking. A marina expecting more than a few people needs about 40 lbs. per square foot. Rarely will you get the exact poundage, but you should strive to obtain as close to these benchmarks as possible.Once you have the flotation needed for the design phase, you then choose the floats you want to use. We offer many options, but, generally speaking, the 12” and 16” deep floats tend to make a more stable dock. For our example, we will be building an 8’ x 20’ dock section. The amount of square feet of dock is first determined by multiplying 8’ x 20’ = 160 square feet. We then calculate 30 pounds of flotation per square feet and multiply 30 x 160 = 4800 pounds of flotation needed to satisfy the design criteria.The next step is to determine the size float you would like to use. For this example, we will use a 4’ x 8’ x 12” float. This float has a supporting weight of 1680 lbs. per float. Three of these floats will provide 5040 lbs. of flotation. If we divide the total flotation by the square footage of the dock (5040 divided by 160) we find that our choice of float delivers 31.5 lbs. of flotation per square foot. When using these large floats, that 1.5 lbs. per square foot difference is almost as close as you can obtain and would be acceptable.

Question 40

Are your floats empty?

Accepted Answer

All our floats use a 100% Virgin prime grade polyethylene shell and are filled with a molded-in-place 100% Virgin 1pcf expanded polystyrene. They meet and exceed all applicable US Coast Guard regulations and will provide the end user with long lasting, trouble free service.

Question 41

What is your float warranty?

Accepted Answer

We use Eagle Floats that include an industry leading 15-year pro-rated warranty. Unlike other float manufacturers that pro-rate the floats from the date of purchase, our floats are 100% for the first ten years. First Ten years: 100%11th & 12th year: 60%13th & 14th year: 30%15th year: 15%Other manufacturer warranties are extended when purchased through AM Docks.

Question 42

Who do we sell to?

Accepted Answer

We sell to every type of customer. Re-sellers, contractors, marinas, and state entities must provide proof of current business license and necessary documentation to obtain special pricing.

Question 43

Can I pick up my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Monday through Friday (except holidays). Picking up larger orders saves greatly on shipping costs, and our office showroom allows you to view our many dock options and accessories first hand. We encourage customers picking up larger orders to call ahead of time to ensure the product is in stock and to expedite your service.

Question 44

How and where do we ship products?

Accepted Answer

AMD ships parts and pieces, as well as complete dock systems, worldwide. We don't like paying shipping costs either, so we make a continued effort to give our customers the lowest shipping rate possible. Customers ordering complete dock systems need to understand the weight and size associated with most built docks, as well as being able to have a way of unloading the docks other than by hand. Most orders ship FOB 141 Sunset Ave., Wellsburg, WV 26070. Certain sourced products and high volume orders may ship directly from our vendors.

Question 45

Is the website shipping calculator accurate?

Accepted Answer

We try out best to program the shipping calculator as precisely as possible, but different combinations of large heavy items can be complicated. If you would like to check on a more accurate shipping rate, we recommend calling our offices or requesting a quote using our Contact page.

Question 46

What forms of payment do we accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept payment by Credit Card, ACH, Wire, and Check. All payments must be in U.S. Dollars.Any payment made by personal or bank check must be sent and deposited in our bank account before the order ships or is picked up. Sometimes this bank process can take up to (4) business days. Any insufficient / bounced checks will be responsible to pay the $35.00 bank fee accessed per occurrence.Any payment made by ACH or Wire must hit our bank with the total invoice sum of the order. Any processing or transfer fee by the customer's bank must be paid by the customer in addition to the invoice total when ordering the transfer to AMD.Any credit card payment processed that the customer inaccurately disputes (for no error on AMD's part) will be re-invoiced by AMD with the addition of the $35.00 processing fee. This is a fee (above the invoice amount originally charged) that the credit card processing company charges per each occurrence and is never returned to AMD even if the customer reverses the dispute. If customer reverses the dispute, they will be invoiced separately for the $35.00 processing fee. It should not be AMD’s responsibility to pay this fee when someone makes the mistake of disputing a charge that was accurately processed.All payments must be in U.S. dollars. Any accidental foreign currency charge will be additionally charged for the conversion difference to the sum of the invoice total in U.S. dollars.Any down-payment that was sent to and deposited by AMD will be non-refundable.

Question 47

When will my order ship?

Accepted Answer

We typically ship within 2-5 business days depending on the size of your order. If you have further questions, please call 1-800-223-3444

Question 48

How can I track my order?

Accepted Answer

Tracking information will be sent to the email address associated with the order when your order has been placed in the system to ship. Note: Actual tracking information will not show up until the carrier has scanned and picked up your package .

Question 49

Do you offer returns or exchanges?

Accepted Answer

Standard parts may be eligible for return under certain conditions. Custom dock systems are typically non-returnable because they are built to your specifications. If you have an issue, contact us, and we will work with you to resolve it.

Question 50

Can you ship to my location, and how does delivery work?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we ship worldwide. Delivery method depends on your order size and location, and may involve freight. We will confirm shipping details, unloading requirements, and any access considerations before dispatch.

Question 51

What is our warranty?

Accepted Answer

LIMITED WARRANTYThis warranty applies solely to most steel and aluminum components manufactured by American Muscle Docks & Fabrication.Our standard offering of steel and aluminum products is warranted for 3 years from the date of purchase. During this period, American Muscle Docks & Fabrication will, at its discretion, repair or replace any steel or aluminum component found to be defective due to material or workmanship. This warranty applies only to material or workmanship defects and only when products are used in applications for which they were designed and intended. Products used outside of their intended purpose, subjected to misuse, abuse, improper installation, not maintained, acts of God, or modified after manufacture, are not covered under this warranty.All steel products are hot-dip galvanized, which is the process of applying a protective zinc coating to steel or iron to reduce corrosion and extend service life. The galvanizing process itself is not warranted for lifespan or performance, as durability is influenced by environmental exposure, water conditions, usage, and maintenance. Surface oxidation, cosmetic changes, and eventual wear of the zinc coating are considered normal and do not constitute a defect.Products that involve custom fabrication, special-order components, or customer-requested design modifications to standard stock products are produced to individual specifications and are not covered under this warranty. These items are built to meet specific project requirements and applications, and therefore fall outside of standard warranty coverage.Other products or components supplied by third-party manufacturers may carry their own individual warranties, which will apply in place of this warranty where applicable.

Question 52

What are our Limitations of Liability?

Accepted Answer

To the fullest extent permitted by law, American Muscle Docks & Fabrication’s liability under this warranty is limited exclusively to the repair or replacement of the defective component, at our discretion. This warranty does not cover, and American Muscle Docks & Fabrication shall not be liable for, any labor costs, removal costs, reinstallation costs, transportation costs, loss of use, loss of time, loss of profit, or any incidental, consequential, or indirect damages arising from the use or inability to use the product.Installation responsibility rests with the purchaser or installer. American Muscle Docks & Fabrication is not responsible for damage, failure, or performance issues resulting from improper installation, inadequate site conditions, failure to follow provided guidelines, or installation methods not approved by the manufacturer.Ongoing inspection and maintenance are the responsibility of the owner. American Muscle Docks & Fabrication is not responsible for damage or failure resulting from lack of routine inspection, normal wear and tear, corrosion related to environmental conditions, deferred maintenance, acts of God, or continued use of a product after damage or deterioration has been observed.Under no circumstances shall American Muscle Docks & Fabrication’s total liability exceed the original purchase price of the specific product or component giving rise to the claim.This warranty is provided in lieu of all other warranties, express or implied, including but not limited to any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, except where such exclusions are prohibited by law.

Question 53

Do all gangways need to be ADA compliant?

Accepted Answer

No. ADA does not apply to private residential docks. ADA applies only when a gangway serves a public dock, marina, pier, or boat slip, or when it is part of a required accessible route.

Question 54

Does ADA always require a 1:12 gangway slope?

Accepted Answer

No. ADA includes slope exceptions. Facilities with 25 or more slips may waive slope requirements at 80 feet of total gangway length. Facilities with fewer than 25 slips may waive slope requirements at 30 feet.

Question 55

How is gangway length measured for ADA purposes?

Accepted Answer

Total gangway length includes all hinged sections and switchbacks, not just the straight portion.

Question 56

If I replace a gangway, do I have to make it ADA compliant?

Accepted Answer

Not automatically. Repair or replacement alone does not require lengthening a gangway unless other alterations trigger path of travel requirements.

Question 57

What is considered a primary function area?

Accepted Answer

Primary function areas typically include boat slips, dock decking, and electrical or utility systems on the dock.

Question 58

What is the ADA 20 percent rule?

Accepted Answer

When altering a primary function area, required accessibility upgrades are capped at 20 percent of the total alteration cost. Costs beyond that amount are considered disproportionate.

Question 59

Does the 20 percent rule require lengthening the gangway?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. The 20 percent allowance may be used for gangway surface improvements, handrails, transition plates, edge protection, signage, or grading.

Question 60

Do slope exceptions remove all ADA requirements?

Accepted Answer

No. Slope exceptions apply only to slope. Other requirements such as width, surface conditions, transitions, and edge protection may still apply.

Question 61

Who enforces ADA gangway compliance?

Accepted Answer

Local Authorities Having Jurisdiction enforce compliance based on federal ADA standards. Proper documentation and correct application of exceptions are critical.

Question 62

How can American Muscle Docks help?

Accepted Answer

American Muscle Docks designs and fabricates dock systems with ADA compliance, engineered correctly from the start, helping owners avoid unnecessary upgrades and permitting delays.

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