As we’re slowly approaching colder temperatures, it’s time to think about boat storage. Reminisce on your summer boating fun one last time before gathering your storage materials. When putting away your boat for a long period, you want to make sure everything is in good condition. Read how to store your boat during the off-season to learn the step-by-step process to follow.
Park or Dock Your Boat
The first step in the storage process is parking or docking your boat. Most boaters choose to park on their property or have space in a body of water. However, if you don’t know where you want to leave your boat, check out the pros and cons of these storage methods.
Parking on Your Property
The benefit of parking on your property is that storage is free, and you have easy access to maintenance during the colder months. However, the downside is that it limits your space on your property and may block an entry or exit way.
Docking on the Water
The advantage of docking on the water is that you don’t have to transport the boat from your home or storage center. The con is that it remains exposed to natural elements, such as rain, snow, and wind. As a result, damages can occur to the exterior.
Clean and Polish
Once you move your boat to its designated spot, it’s time to clean and polish it—yes, this includes taking care of your boat’s vinyl upholstery. While every vessel is different, you should make sure to give it one last thorough cleaning before storing it. Scrub the deck and remove grime. Also, take out the bilge drain plug. Then, do some internal cleaning by checking the mini-fridge and storage spaces. You want everything cleared out before covering the boat.
Cover Your Boat
Before heading out for the season, make sure you cover the boat. Excess amounts of wind, rain, and snow can damage the interior and exterior of your boat. A tightly-fitting cover is the best defense against the natural elements. It’s also essential to verify if your boat is completely dry before putting it away for the season. When there’s lingering moisture on the interior, mold and mildew form. If you overlook this, a pungent smell will develop, creating serious health concerns.
Summer has come and gone. It’s time to put our boats away during these cold months. Frigid weather wreaks havoc on our boats. Therefore, it’s vital to have a storage plan ready to preserve your boat. Revisit how to store your boat during the off-season when it’s time to put your boat away.