As winter sets in, your dock boat must be ready for harsh conditions. A thorough cleaning, sanding, staining, and covering process will keep it looking fantastic in spring! Drain and flush all water systems, add non-toxic antifreeze to the bilge, and make sure all lines are closed off to prevent any stagnant water from building up inside, which could potentially lead to damage. We have prepared this guide to seal a dock boat for the cold weather. So let’s learn!
Clean the Boat Thoroughly
As part of your preparations for winter, ensuring your boat dock is free of dirt, mildew, or other debris that could wreak havoc over time is key to ensuring it survives the season unscathed. Make this an opportunity to visually inspect your dock and gangway, looking out for cracking boards, rusted hardware, or structural issues.
Be sure to use eco-friendly cleaning agents that won’t contribute to nutrient pollution or harm aquatic organisms, and avoid bleach-based cleaners, which could discolor composite materials. Also, make sure that removable dock accessories are securely stored away so it will be easier for winter maintenance work on the dock itself to access its components when required.
Apply a Protective Wax Coat
Protective waxes offer a layer of defense against environmental factors contributing to wear and tear on a boat’s hull, such as UV rays, saltwater intrusion, and pollutants. Wax types vary to meet specific protection needs and individual tastes; hybrid waxes provide an appealing compromise between carnauba’s warm shine and synthetic’s durability.
Liquid waxes are easily applied and buffed with a machine buffer for a high-gloss finish, making them a good option for boats prone to water and sun exposure. Spray waxes offer convenience but require more frequent touch-ups; additionally, they offer less coverage than liquid or paste waxes.
Drain the Water Systems
Cold temperatures can cause damage to a boat’s engine and other systems, including its engine cooling system, which must be drained regularly to prevent freezing and cracking of these parts of its infrastructure. Draining must also include draining from its bilge, head, and pipes.
Residential boat owners that own floating or sectional docks should remove them from the water and store them somewhere flat that won’t flood. They should place their sections on the right side with drain holes at the bottom to minimize water retention or accumulation.
A floating dock deicer and bubbler are also advised to keep the dock free from ice during winter, as they release air bubbles into the water to warm it up faster. So, if you are looking for a reliable dock repair service in Seneca, contact Foothills Docks now!
Remove Any Perishable Items
Make sure that in addition to taking out all necessary boat parts, any items susceptible to being damaged by extremely freezing temperatures, such as canvas covers, extra fenders, and recreational equipment, should also be removed in order to prevent mildew formation and unwanted guests. Any organic materials should also be eliminated to stop mildew growth and limit potential pest invasions.
As part of the annual inspection of your dock structure, set aside about an hour to check it for signs of rot, such as splinters or warped planks that require repair. Addressing these issues early could prevent more costly and extensive repairs later. It’s also a good time for dock owners to apply a stain that will help the structure resist snow and ice better. Choose one with UV filters that is waterproof, as this may help. Additionally, consider investing in a durable boat cover to provide extra protection during the winter months.
Cover the Boats or Other Watercraft
Not only is tarping a boat for winter boat storage necessary, but using the appropriate material is key. Tarps must be strong enough to protect from potential damage while remaining breathable enough to prevent mildew or mold growth.
- Many boaters choose cheap boat covers to save money, but these usually aren’t enough to protect the vessel from water and snow damage.
- Specialized winter covers are more costly but will ensure safety and prevent costly repairs in the springtime.
- Installing bumpers on the dock can also prevent boats from colliding with it during high winds and stormy conditions, protecting it from being struck.
Shrink Wrap
Heat shrink wrap can protect your boat from snow, ice, and wind this winter. Shrink wrap comes in various thicknesses and materials, each offering different levels of strength and durability. Common examples are Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) wraps, which offer great puncture resistance.
Once your boat is safely docked and anchored, secure its spring line at the nearest cleat or piling. Be sure to loosen dock lines, turn the hard port (the side away from the dock), and put an engine that has been idle into forward gear before doing this.
Seal All Openings
Whether your dock is being used for winter storage or simply parking it, keeping moisture at bay requires keeping all openings – including through-hull fittings – secure and closed off to protect against moisture intrusion.
This is particularly crucial for air intakes like generators and AC pump cooling water intakes. To further ensure:
- Dry storage environment
- Seal off toilet holding tanks
- Remove all hoses from its system
- Seal toilet holding tank covers
- Disconnect and unhook all cables from systems in use onboard as these can trap moisture within its interior.
Once your boat is dry, add non-toxic antifreeze to all water systems. Empty and flush the toilet and lubricate all belts before applying a protective wax coating to its surfaces to protect against ice damage and UV rays.
Add Fuel Stabilizer
Proper fuel treatment is an integral component of long-term boat storage preparations. If gasoline hasn’t been stabilized before storage, its content could quickly oxidize and degrade over time, causing major issues next season. This is particularly important for boats stored in areas where the lake freezes, as the cold can exacerbate fuel degradation.
Ensuring your fuel tank is treated will prevent these problems and help maintain performance. Whether your boat is stored on a permanent dock or in a different storage solution, taking these precautions is essential for optimal winter storage.
Once your crew ties the spring line, have them throw it onto a piling or cleat well behind where your boat needs to fit for easy docking or docking to prevent fingers and limbs from being pinched when swinging into dock or pilings. This will protect against pinches as your boat swings back onto them.
Conclusion
By following these steps to seal your dock boat for the winter weather, you can ensure it stays in top condition whether it’s moored at a lake cabin or exposed to salt water conditions. This preparation will have your boat ready for smooth sailing when spring arrives. For dock repair or maintenance services in Seneca, contact Foothills Docks and make sure your boat and dock are both winter-ready. Proper preparation now will save you time, money, and hassle when returning to the fresh water. Stay warm, and see you next season!
Building a Durable Stationary Dock
Ready to transform your waterfront property with reliable, long-lasting dock repair? At Foothills Docks, we craft high-quality stationary docks tailored to your needs. Our expert team ensures your dock is built to withstand the elements while providing a safe, secure platform for boating and waterfront activities. We are experts in dock construction, installation, and fabrication on upstate lakes.
Contact us today to start planning your dock system, and let’s create the perfect spot for you to enjoy the water for years to come!
