how much ice is needed???

[rippinlipz]

With a 2000lb shack, 8X14, how much ice is needed to take it out on the lake?

thanks.

[john.wells]

To be conservative, 12 inches should be fine. To put it into perspective, 2000 pounds is about the equivalent of 10 guys huddled over a person who is pulling a big fish up. I have seen/done that on WAY less ice. Factor in the tow vehicle, though, and you have a whole new set of rules-but a foot of ice at minimum should be good.

[hanson]

I agree, the tow vehicle is going to make the difference. If you use a 4 Wheeler, you should be alright. If you pull it out with your half ton truck, you might want to wait for 14" minimum, or more.

[Bob_D]

Per the American Pulpwood Association....

Ice Thickness Permissible Load

2 inches One person on foot

3 inches Group in single file

7.5 inches one car (2 tons)

8 inches light truck (2.5 tons)

10 inches truck (3.5 tons)

12 inches heavy truck (7-8 tons)

15 inches 10 tons

20 inches 25 tons

This guide is based on clear, blue, hard ice on non-running waters. Slush ice is about 50 percent weaker. Clear, blue ice over running water is about 20 percent weaker.

[ice_it_06]

rippinlipz:

The house alone only needs 6-8 for 2,000 lbs spread over 8 X 14, pretty light house really. Once I see 13" of constant good ice I'll tow and drive with a 1/2 ton. I generally park the truck 30' from the house unless there is 15" or more.

[Crusty old Swede]

Search this board for ice safety and you'll find a link to the army corps of engineers ice strength info...very good info for staying on the dry side of ice.

[Bob_D]

Here is the link to the ARMY Cold Regions Research & Engineering Laboratory data.

U.S. ARMY Cold Regions Research & Engineering Laboratory Safety Sheet

[pathogen]

That's excellent information, and as often as ice thickness questions are asked here, it might not be a bad candidate to be a sticky post on this forum. It is certainly relevant.

[rippinlipz]

thanks guys for the info. greatly appreciated.

[john.wells]

great info! I agree about the sticky post.

[Duckerdave]

just read the entire link on ice safety. great info.