Transition Plates

Aluminum dock transition plates that bridge the gap between a gangway and a dock, or between dock sections. The Premium Aluminum Diamond Plate Transition Plate is 3/16 in. diamond plate with a mounting hinge so it pivots as water levels change. It comes in widths from 2 to 6 ft and lengths from 12 to 24 in. Blue Ridge Boat Docks, a dock builder in Marion, IL serving the Midwest, installs transition plates on new and existing docks.

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Transition Plates

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Aluminum dock transition plates that bridge the gap between a gangway and a dock, or between dock sections. The Premium Aluminum Diamond Plate Transition Plate is 3/16 in. diamond plate with a mounting hinge so it pivots as water levels change. It comes in widths from 2 to 6 ft and lengths from 12 to 24 in. Blue Ridge Boat Docks, a dock builder in Marion, IL serving the Midwest, installs transition plates on new and existing docks.

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Choosing a Dock Transition Plate

The joint where a gangway meets a floating dock shifts every time the water rises, falls or a wave passes. A transition plate covers that joint so people, carts and wheelchairs can cross without catching a wheel or a toe.

What this plate offers

  • Material. 3/16 in. aluminum diamond plate, which won't rust.
  • Traction. The raised diamond pattern gives grip when wet.
  • Stiffness. The plate is bent in the middle to add rigidity and resist bowing under weight.
  • Hinge. A heavy-duty aluminum mounting hinge is included so the plate pivots with changing water levels.

See aluminum transition plates.

How to size it

  • Width. Match the width of the gangway or walkway you are covering. Plates come in 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 ft widths.
  • Length. Choose enough length to cover the widest gap the joint opens to, with overlap on the landing side. Lengths are 12, 16, 18 and 24 in.
  • Mounting surface. The hinge side needs solid framing or decking to fasten into.

Watch the joint through a full range of motion. Measure the gap at high and low water and while someone walks across, then size to the largest number.

Where they help most

  • Gangway-to-dock joints on floating docks.
  • Docks where people roll coolers, carts or dollies.
  • Docks that need smoother access for wheelchairs and walkers.

Common mistakes

  • Sizing the length for a calm day.
  • Fastening the hinge to soft or rotted decking.
  • Choosing a plate narrower than the walkway, which leaves an edge to trip on.

Gangways and hinges for floating docks are in floating dock systems, including EZ Dock gangways. For help sizing a plate, call 618-294-6905.

Transition Plates FAQ

What is a dock transition plate?

A dock transition plate is a hinged plate that covers the gap between a gangway and a dock or between two dock sections. It gives a smooth path for people, carts and wheelchairs and pivots as the water level moves the two sides. Blue Ridge sells an aluminum diamond plate version.

What sizes do the aluminum transition plates come in?

The Premium Aluminum Diamond Plate Transition Plate comes in widths of 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 ft and lengths of 12, 16, 18 and 24 in. Match the width to the walkway and choose a length that covers the widest gap the joint opens to.

Is a mounting hinge included?

Yes. Each plate includes a heavy-duty aluminum mounting hinge so it can pivot as water levels change. The hinge side should fasten into solid framing or decking. The plate itself is 3/16 in. diamond plate, bent in the middle for added stiffness.

Can Blue Ridge install a transition plate on my dock?

Yes. Blue Ridge Boat Docks installs transition plates and gangways on docks in Southern Illinois, eastern Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky and Tennessee. You can also pick one up free at the Marion shop or have it delivered locally for $100 within 50 driving miles.

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