A Touchless Cover® remains standing beside damaged boats and boat lifts following a storm near Sister Lakes, Michigan. Photo courtesy of Pier Logic Marina and Storage.
A storm tore through one of the lakes served by Pier Logic Marina and Storage near Sister Lakes in Dowagiac, Michigan. According to the marina’s account, boat lifts were twisted beyond repair, boats were destroyed, and families who had been looking forward to the Fourth of July found themselves cleaning up instead.
One detail stood out. A Touchless Cover® remained standing amid the surrounding damage.
That real example deserves attention, but it also needs careful limits. One photograph and one storm do not establish a wind rating, engineering certification, warranty promise, or outcome for another installation. Storm strength, wind direction, debris, maintenance, frame condition, and local exposure differ. What the example does provide is a practical reason to understand the approved storm position before severe weather arrives.
The first instinct may be to raise the cover so wind can pass underneath it. During severe weather, raising it can actually expose more cover fabric and supporting structure to wind. Unless the fabric can be removed safely beforehand, the cover should remain down according to the procedure approved for that installation.
Why the lowered position matters
A raised cover presents fabric and frame area to the wind. Gusts can push against the fabric, pull at attachment points, and transfer force through the supporting structure. Keeping the cover down reduces the amount of elevated surface exposed to those forces.
This does not make a Touchless Cover® immune to storm damage. It is a preparation measure, not a promise. Owners should confirm the correct operating position with their dealer because dock layouts, frame configurations, and installation details vary. The Touchless Cover® FAQ explains the system’s automated operation. An impending storm, depending on its severity, may warrant a call to your dealer to remove the fabric altogether.
Water accumulation can stress the frame
Heavy rain creates another problem. If water collects in the folds of the fabric, it may cause the fabric to sag and increase stress on the supporting frame.
Owners should inspect the cover during ordinary rain and note any area where water repeatedly sits. A dealer can check the fabric pitch, frame position, material condition, and other installation details before the next storm. Small drainage or alignment concerns are easier to address before strong wind and heavy rain arrive together.
Do not walk onto a dock during lightning, severe wind, flooding, or unstable conditions to push water from the fabric. The National Weather Service lightning safety guidance directs people indoors when thunder is heard. Preparation belongs before the dangerous conditions begin.
Use tie-down straps only as directed
Some installations may use tie-down straps as part of storm preparation. The correct quantity, position, tension, attachment method, and timing must come from the dealer or approved instructions.
Do not guess where straps belong. Do not add makeshift ropes, anchors, or fasteners because they appear stronger. An improvised setup can transfer loads to parts of the frame or dock that were not designed for them.
Before severe weather is forecast, ask the dealer to explain the approved tie-down procedure for the specific installation. Inspect any authorized straps and hardware for wear, damage, missing parts, or previous modifications. The Dealer Locator on the Touchless Cover® site can help owners find their nearest dealer.
Remove the fabric when conditions allow
Removing the fabric altogether may be the preferred preparation when adequate warning is available and the work can be completed safely. With the fabric removed, there is less material for wind and water to act upon.
That work must begin early. Once lightning starts, wind increases, water rises, or dock access becomes unstable, it would not be advisable or safe to attempt removing your cover.
Ask the dealer to demonstrate the approved procedure during calm weather. Talk to your dealer to set up a plan for the next storm. Many Touchless Cover® dealers offer winter and storm preparation maintenance packages. Don’t wait for an impending storm to discuss your options.
What the Pier Logic example can and cannot prove
Pier Logic reported real destruction and a Touchless Cover® that remained standing. It is a useful field example.
We all know, however, that weather is unpredictable. Storms in different parts of the country throughout the year can vary wildly. Severe hurricanes, tornadoes, falling trees, large debris, flooding, storm surge, and structural failures can overwhelm any cover system. Prepare early, follow dealer-approved guidance, use authorized tie-down straps, remove the fabric when time and safety permit, and stop all work once conditions become dangerous.
Don’t get caught uncovered during the next storm. Meet with your Touchless Cover® dealer in advance and have a plan before the weather comes your way!
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