Can I Leave My Dock in Water Over the Winter?
Whether or not you should leave your boat dock in water over the winter will depend on a few factors, but climate is the biggest one. If you live in the north and experience typical winters that include snow and ice, then you should consider removing your dock before any ice begins to form and snow begins to fall.
If your winters are milder and the risk of ice is low, you might be able to leave your dock in water year-round, but we still recommend going through a full end-of-season maintenance checklist. You should also keep a close eye on the forecast and have a plan in place to protect your dock.
How to Prepare Your Dock for Winter
No matter your environmental conditions, there are a few things all boat dock owners should do to prepare their docks for the off-season.
- Make a plan – Removing your dock for the winter can be a pain, but it’s just once a year. Simplify the winterization process by developing a plan that you can easily repeat each year. Not only will this ensure you don’t forget anything, but it will also relieve some stress when the day comes to actually remove the dock. You’ll already know exactly where you’re going to store it and how you’re going to do it.
- Inspect and maintain – Autumn is also an ideal time to inspect your dock for any damage. If you spot anything, fix it now. For docks that will stay in the water, tighten all bolts and screws, consider detaching it from shore, and attach a safety line in case it comes loose during the winter.
- Check local regulations – In addition, be sure to check your local rules and regulations related to dock winterization. Some places may require you to remove the dock by a certain date or have restrictions related to de-icing systems or bubblers.
The choice to remove your dock during the winter should be made after considering your weather conditions and the type of dock you own. If you’re uncertain about the best ways to store your dock for winter, consider consulting with a professional dock hardware company that can provide valuable guidance tailored to your specific location and dock requirements.
