January 20, 2026

As a marina operator, you have a lot on your mind over the winter months including managing the impacts of snow load and making sure your clients’ boats stay safe. These challenges can put stress on your structures and peace of mind, but with the right approach, you can stay ahead of the season. Here are some practical tips to help handle winter’s toughest conditions with confidence.

Structural and Layout Considerations:
For covered slips, boat shelters, and private docks, start by making sure structures meet local building code requirements for snow load and the manufacturer specifications (in the case of a prefabricated structure). Flat or low-slope roofs? Try to avoid them where possible, as they tend to accumulate snow buildup. In marinas, double check that floating dock systems can stay buoyant under snow and ice loads, and take a look at anchorage points to make sure they can handle freeze/thaw movement. For private docks, inspect pilings and fasteners before winter and consider reinforcing areas exposed to ice pressure.

Snow and Ice Management:
When it comes to snow and ice, always prioritize safety first. Adopt a strict no-roof-access policy for snow removal to avoid slip-and-fall incidents. If you do need to clear snow, use long-handled snow rakes from the ground and non-metallic shovels on docks to prevent surface damage. Establish removal thresholds and prioritize high-risk areas such as beams, canopies, and covered slips first. Operate bubblers or de-icers in marina basins and near private docks to prevent ice buildup and reduce structural stress. And don’t forget walkways and dock surfaces – treat them with marine-safe de-icers or sand to maintain traction.

Shrink-Wrapping – Benefits and Best Practices:
Shrink-wrapping is one of the most effective methods for protecting boats during winter storage, whether on private property or in a yard. Properly applied shrink-wrap creates a weather-tight barrier that sheds snow, keeps moisture out, and even protects against UV damage. Key practices include:

• Building a stable support frame with enough slope for snow to slide off.
• Padding contact points to prevent chafing and reinforcing stress areas with tape.
• Installing vents to prevent condensation and adding desiccant bags where needed.
• Using marine-grade shrink film and making sure heat is applied by trained professionals with approved equipment, following fire safety protocols.

Before wrapping, rinse salt residues to minimize corrosion risk, and plan for environmentally responsible removal in spring.

Inspection and Readiness:
Train staff or homeowners to recognize warning signs such as sagging beams, canopy deflection, or unusual creaking. Document pre-season checks, snow removal schedules, and equipment readiness. For marinas and yards, confirm contractor availability and emergency protocols before winter to ensure you know who can help in the event of an unplanned emergency.

As always, your insurance broker is a key partner in helping you manage risk and is there to help if you have questions or concerns.