Winterizing Docks

Winterizing docks can be a very difficult task if you have to remove them for the winter. Our ice resistant pontoon floats are designed to be left in the water all year including winter. When winterizing docks you must disconnect them especially if the shore connection is a deck or other solid structure. Generally we simply “beach” them and tie them off however in conditions where that isn’t possible you have to develop a different strategy. While the obvious concern is the ice, you must keep in mind the potential for a bad fall storm. Generally we recommend leaving the docks installed as long as possible since that could be the safest place for them.

Winterizing Docks Consider Relocating

If the shoreline is too rough or rocky or you are in a situation where you get pack ice, you may be want to relocate them to another shore location that is better protected. Some lakes have small creeks coming in that never really freeze over. These can be excellent places to park your docks for the winter.

Free Floating Docks

Another option many people use is to disconnect the docks and leave them free floating. In most places where the water simply freezes over and thaws in the spring without a lot of pack ice, this works well. You have to ensure you have heavy duty anchoring to keep them in place. If you got a bad storm a dock can drag a lot of weight!
You also want to ensure multiple sections are not going to bang up against each other. Tying off the docks in multiple directions is always a good idea.

Chain vs Rope

Always use chain where possible. If you do have to use rope use quality marine grade nylon rope with a high breaking strength. If necessary drill and set high strength eye bolts into bed rock or very large boulders.