Living on the water offers an unmatched lifestyle filled with boating, kayaking, and other water sports. However, it also requires us to be mindful of the weather, especially when severe storms are on the horizon to make sure your dock, watercraft, and dockside equipment are as secure as possible. While some storm-related damage can be unavoidable, there are plenty of steps you can take to minimize the risks and ensure your dock and watercrafts weather the storm safely.

Below are six essential tips to help you prepare your dock and watercraft for severe weather conditions:

1. Ensure Proper Installation

The best way to prep your dock for a storm is to ensure it’s built with durable materials that can withstand harsh conditions. If your dock isn’t constructed from a sturdy material, you may want to consider making improvements before a storm hits. We highly recommend aluminum docks as they are strong, resilient, and better equipped to handle high winds and rough waters. Aluminum docks are our specialty for good reason—nothing’s stronger than aluminum.

2. Inspect Connection Points

One of the most vulnerable parts of any dock is its connection points. These areas bear the brunt of daily wear and tear, as well as extra stress from wind and waves during storms. Loose screws or weakened welds connecting dock sections can compromise the dock’s structural integrity. Inspect these areas regularly, but especially before a storm, and if you see signs of damage, repair them immediately. Keeping connection points strong will help prevent your dock from falling apart in extreme weather conditions.

3. Check Your Anchoring System

How is your dock anchored to the shore? Your dock’s anchoring system plays a critical role in keeping it secure during a storm. Whether your dock is secured with cables or a pilings anchoring system, make sure everything is properly adjusted for increased wind and wave load. If your dock is anchored with cables, consider loosening them slightly to allow for some movement while still keeping the dock secure. Pilings offer greater stability in rough waters and might be something to consider if you don’t already have this system in place.

4. Secure Items on the Dock

Wind gusts during a storm can turn anything left unsecured on your dock into dangerous debris. Secure or remove all unattached items such as furniture, paddles, storage containers, lighting, and other dock accessories. If your dock has railings, ensure they are either firmly attached or removed for safekeeping. Don’t forget to secure items like ladders and dockside decor, and make sure your storage systems are closed and properly latched to avoid anything blowing away.

5. Prepare Your Boat

If possible, move your boat to a storage facility before the storm hits. If this isn’t an option, raise your boat lift as high as possible and ensure your boat is securely fastened to the lift. Use chafe gear or bumpers to protect your boat from rubbing against the dock, and remove any valuables inside the boat that could be damaged. Additionally, don’t forget to remove the drain plugs from your boat so any water that does enter can easily drain out.

6. Document Your Dock

Before the storm arrives, take photos of your dock and watercraft to document their current condition. In the event that your dock or boat sustains damage, having photographic proof will make the insurance claims process much smoother. Storms can be unpredictable, but having clear documentation of your dock before the damage occurs can help speed up the recovery process and provide peace of mind.

Need Assistance? We’re Here to Help

If you need help securing your dock or if your dock sustains damage during the storm, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call us at (864) 882-7671 or email us at [email protected], and our team will be there to assist you. Whether you need a hand in the aftermath or advice on preparations, we’re here to help you keep your dock safe during these challenging weather conditions.