Pier Storage and Other Tips for the Winter Season

When winter rears its ugly head, it’s important to make sure your pier, dock, and/or boat are properly stored to avoid any damage during the harsh winter weather. Pier Perfection can provide you with services to help keep your pier and dock in good condition during the offseason. While there are types of piers and docks that are just fine being left on a frozen lake, others require storage in the winter. In the fall, we at Pier Perfection can remove the dock or pier you purchased from us, then re-install them in the spring. In today’s post, we will discuss the steps you need to take to make sure your pier, dock, or boat are properly protected from the harsh winter conditions.

Take Your Dock Out of the Water

Before you remove your dock for the season, you need to figure out how it comes apart. Whether it’s a roll-in, a sectional, or a floating dock or pier, the expansion and contraction of the ice forming and melting adds undue stress onto the structure that can cause warping severe enough that it can permanently damage it to the point it can no longer be used. Some people choose to use a deicer that can push warmer water up from the depths of the water to break up the ice before it can even form.

Make Sure Your Dock, Pier, or Boatlift is Stored Properly

Lake structures like these are significant investments, and you need to take proper care of them to ensure you can get the most out of that investment. Failure to wrap and store these items in a dry area can result in them becoming mildewed and waterlogged, causing serious damage to the interior and exterior of this equipment. Store your pier or dock in a shed or another dry area and keep them protected from the elements. You can find a marina where you can store your boat or lift and get the seasonal maintenance you need when it’s time to return it to the lake.

Winterize Your Boat

For successful storage of your boat during the offseason, you need to take certain steps. First, you need to disassemble boat accessories to make sure they are clean and dry. This also goes for the boat, itself. Any moisture can result in mold and mildew which can damage surfaces and cause health issues for you and your family. You also need to take measures to winterize the motor, like changing the oil, flushing and changing the drain cooling water, lubricating the motor, and making sure it’s clean.

If you have any questions about how to properly care for your dock or pier, the experts at Pier Perfection can help you. Contact us today!