By 
Did you know that freshwater expands by nearly 10% when it freezes and can damage your boat?
Without winterizing your boat properly, your engine blocks could crack and waterlines could split.
If you want to preserve the condition of your boat and get it ready for the next season, there are a few steps to take.
Keep reading to discover the most important steps for boat storage that can’t be missed!
Secure a Storage Location
One of the first steps to handling boat storage is finding the location.
Finding boat storage facilities isn’t difficult, but you need to do your research. The prices will likely impact your decision, however, you should consider the security features. Try to get ahead of the game in finding a location, especially since many reputable storage companies run out of space.
When picking a location, you should think about the needs of your boat and if you want it in a climate-controlled environment.
Inspect & Make Repairs
Before you find dry storage for boats, you want to know the conditions of your vessel.
At the end of the season, take a good look at the interior and exterior of the boat. Look for scratches, cracks, and broken pieces that need to get replaced. A common replacement that people have to make is putting new snap fasteners on the tarp.
Waiting to make the repairs could put you at risk of overlooking them in the spring or them getting worse. This is also a good time to check your moving parts, like the bushings and cables, to ensure that they aren’t getting worn down.
Winterize the Engine
An oil change is essential during the winterizing process but there are a few more things to attend to.
Most people add fuel stabilizers and fogging oil to the boat. This prevents issues from cold temperatures and will protect the interior of your equipment. You will also want to add a fuel filter and moisture-absorbing boxes.
Clean Up
When the first signs of warmer weather come in the spring, the last thing you’ll want to do is clean your boat.
While you winterize the boat, clean off the scum on the outside and do some wiping and vacuuming on the inside. This will help you get on the water faster and you won’t miss out on the sunshine.
Many people recommend putting swabs of peppermint oil on the boat for storage. This can prevent spiders and other bugs from entering and making a mess.
Seal Out the Elements
Your boat cover support poles will help you finish winterizing the boat and protect it from the elements.
With tarps or plastic wrap, you can keep ice, water, and snow out of your boat so that it isn’t damaged in the spring. Unless you are storing your boat in an indoor facility, you should seal it up since it also keeps unwanted guests from making a new home inside.
Are You Prepared for Boat Storage?
Outdoor boat storage is a lot to prepare for, but it doesn’t take long when you know what to expect.
You’ll need a secure location to keep your boat, and if it’s anywhere outside, you’ll want to seal things up with wrap or tarps. Before you can shrink-wrap the boat, however, a thorough clean is necessary.
Don’t speed through the engine winterization, this is where the expensive damage can occur if you make the wrong move.
Check out our site for more content about boating and making the most of the water this summer!
Comments