Boat docks in winter: Dos and don’ts

Winter is a different beast for boat owners. As the temperatures drop, they must ensure their boat dock is ready for the cold season. This means doing more than just putting away accessories. It helps to also made certain preparations so that the dock won’t be damaged by the winter weather.

With that in mind, let’s look at some of the most important dos and don’ts when preparing a boat dock for winter.

Do coat the boat with paint

One of the best ways to protect a boat dock from the elements is to coat it with paint. Not only will this help protect it from ice, snow and rain, but it will also make sure that any rust or corrosion doesn’t have an opportunity to set in. It’s just best to make sure to use marine-grade, strong dock paint so that there won’t be any issues with adhesion or durability.

Do put away all those accessories

It’s also important to put away all accessories before winter sets in. This means taking down flags, removing fenders and packing life jackets and other items that could get damaged if left outside during a freeze-thaw cycle. It’s best to make sure everything gets stored somewhere safe and dry so that they won’t be ruined by water or moisture damage in the winter months.

Do tie floating docks to the shoreline

Floating docks can be especially susceptible to damage during winter months if they aren’t secured properly. To prevent them from drifting off into open waters, owners must ensure they are securely tied to shorelines or pilings before winter sets in. This will mean they stay in place even during storms or high winds and reduce their risk of being damaged by waves or debris carried along by currents. 

Don’t use floating docks with short pilings

When setting up a floating dock on short pilings, boaters may think they’re saving time and money, but this isn’t always true. Short pilings can increase the risk of damage caused by shifting currents as they don’t offer much support to keep the dock secure against strong winds or waves. So, anyone planning on using a floating dock this winter should make sure it has enough support from long pilings.

Don’t go to cramped or stationary boat docks

Finally, it’s important to avoid using cramped or stationary boat docks during winter, as they tend not to do well in extreme weather conditions such as freezing temperatures or heavy winds and waves. Instead, boat owners should opt for larger docks with plenty of room for movement, such as floating docks. This will help the boat stay secure throughout the cold season without suffering any damage due to excessive stress on its mooring lines or support systems.               

Conclusion

Taking proper precautions when preparing a boat dock for winter is essential to protect vessels from potential damage caused by extreme temperatures and inclement weather conditions throughout this period. By following these dos and don’ts, it’s possible to ensure that the dock remains safe and secure while allowing for peace of mind in the knowledge that everything is taken care of properly. With some preparation, one can enjoy worry-free boating even during colder seasons.

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