May is a great month to enjoy spring boating, but don’t let the fun distract you from the upcoming hurricane season. It officially starts on June 1st, and it’s time to get prepared.
May is the time to get it done—not June 2 after the season has already started. Right now the weather is clear, cooler than the summer months, and ideal for inspections. It’s a great time to ensure your dock, lift, and bulkhead are ready to face high winds and storm surges.
How Should You Inspect Your Dock for Hurricane Season?
During a tropical storm or hurricane, your dock fights the water. Surging water levels and high-velocity winds put pressure on fasteners and bolts from multiple directions.
That’s why we recommend a stress-test inspection in the month of May. Walk the length of your dock and look for:
- Rusted bolts
- Loose nuts
- Cracked mounting plates
If you see “bleeding” rust on your hardware, it’s a sign the structural integrity may be compromised. Tightening these connections now can prevent a single loose board from becoming a dangerous projectile during a storm.
You should also check washout areas behind your bulkhead. If you notice holes forming, it’s time for inspection and repair—storm surge can quickly weaken or collapse these areas.
How Should You Inspect Your Boat Lift for Hurricane Season?
Check for frayed wires or signs of damage. Grease the pulleys and drive units now so the system is ready if you need to raise your boat quickly.
If a storm approaches, you’ll want to lift your boat above predicted surge levels and secure it to the pilings—not just the lift itself.
What Else Should You Do to Prepare Your Waterfront?
Make sure nothing is left that can be blown away during high winds. Patio furniture is great for summer use, but you still need a storm plan in place.
Start now by:
- Identifying where dock furniture will be stored when a warning is issued
- Securing your dock box or planning to empty and weigh it down
- Ensuring you can shut down power and water if needed
Need an Inspection or Repair?
We understand not everyone is a dock expert or feels confident identifying structural damage. That’s why professional inspection makes a difference.
Hurricane season is inevitable, but it doesn’t have to be a source of anxiety. Proper preparation helps ensure your dock, boathouse, pilings, and boat lift stay in top condition.
Together, we can help make sure your dream boat dock remains safe and secure year-round.
