Winterization Tips. Boat docks that are not ready for winter will be in big trouble. Boat docks will get the unpleasant shock of finding out that their boat dock could not survive the grueling winter. You do not want that to be the future of your boat dock, and with these winterization and maintenance tips, it won’t be. Before the temperatures get low, following these tips for dock floats:
- Check for loose connectors and bolts
- Remove any ramps or ladders
- Examine boards for cracks
- Tie a safety line if you have a floating dock
In most cases, you can do all these checks yourself, but in other cases, you will need the expert services of a professional experienced in inspecting and repairing boat docks to come over to look at your boat dock. If you find an issue with your boat dock while examining it, note it down and call a professional instead of fixing it yourself. If you do not have experienced in repairing boat docks, you could do more harm than good.
Different Types of Boat Docks Require Different Types of Protection – Winterization Tips
The winterization steps you will follow depends on the type of boat dock you have installed on your waterfront property.
1. Stationary Boat Docks
Stationary boat docks are permanent docks created to withstand anything that winter throws at them. For boat docks installed in a protected area such as a cove or marina, you do not have to get it ready for winter. However, you may need to remove your boat dock if it is installed on a lake that is 1/2 mile across. If there is open water between your boat dock and the shoreline, it is likely that you will experience issues throughout the winter. Your best bet is to remove all boating equipment from your boat dock.
2. Wooden Boat Docks
One of the most common problems with wooden boat docks that you will run into is the need for constant maintenance. Regardless of the season, you will find yourself knee-deep in maintenance. If you have a wooden dock, examine the sealant and reapply it before winter arrives. Additionally, sand and reseal all splintered areas. This will protect your wooden dock against weather elements and ensure no costly repairs arise down the line.
3. Floating Boat Docks
Floating docks require the least amount of maintenance in the winter. Most floating docks on the lake can sway with the ice movements. The only step you need to take during the winter is to tie it with another object to ensure it stays afloat and does not float away.
Out of these three boat docks, install a floating dock if you do not want to deal with the routine maintenance. If you already have a boat dock but want to upgrade it to a floating dock, contact EZ Dock Texas at 800-654-8168 for a quote. We serve residents of Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico.
