Your Ultimate Winter Boat Storage Guide: Tips and Tricks
Ahoy, boat enthusiasts! The chilly winds of winter are fast approaching, and just as we swap our flip-flops for fuzzy socks, our boats need some winter TLC too. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a new boat owner, preparing your vessel for winter is a necessary rite of passage. Exposing your prized craft to frosty elements without the proper prep can lead to wear and tear, or worse, irreversible damage.
Let's dive into some key winter boat storage tips to protect your investment and make sure your beauty is ready to set sail next spring.
Options for Winter Boat Storage
Finding the right winter home for your boat can be a bit like finding that perfect winter coat. Here are the pros and cons of several boat storage options:
Outdoor Storage at Home
- Pros: Affordable, easy access
- Cons: Harsh weather damage, inconvenience, security
On a Trailer in Garage
- Pros: Handy, cost-effective, you always know where your boat is
- Cons: Inconvenience, limited space
Indoor Storage Facilities
- Pros: Protected, secure, and in a controlled environment.
- Cons: Cost, convenience
How to Store a Boat for Winter: 7 Key Steps
Avast you seasonal landlubbers! It’s time to roll up those sleeves and get your boat winter-ready. Follow these boat storage steps to ensure your craft remains healthy during the off season:
1 Clean and Inspect
Remove trash and recycling and give your boat a good scrub inside and out using warm soapy water and a sponge. Remove any barnacles or invasive plant life. Allow to dry completely and then apply a protective coat of wax to the hull. This is a good time to inspect your boat for any damage, rust or mildew. A clean boat now means less work in the spring.
2 Winterize Your Boat’s Engine
If you boat on salt water, it’s a good idea to clean out your engine with fresh water to rinse away the corrosive salt. Change the oil and antifreeze using marine-specific oil and antifreeze that is safe for your engine and the fish. Top off your gas tank, add fuel stabilizer and run your engine for a few minutes to circulate it through the fuel lines. This can keep your gas “fresh” for up to two years. Finally, add fogger to the spark plug sockets and the carburetor.
3 Store Your Boat’s Battery
Unhook your battery and store it in a cool, dry spot. You can hook it up to a trickle charger, which adds a small constant charge to extend your battery’s life and keep it topped off.
4 Clean and Repair the Interior
Store away valuables, and consider moisture absorbers to avoid pesky mold. Cover exhaust ports to keep pests out. Lubricate moving parts like the steering column and controls. If you notice any rust or corrosion, now is a good time to repair it so that it doesn’t spread while in storage.
5 Empty Tanks
Now is the time to empty livewells, baitwells, water storage tanks and bilge pumps. If you didn’t add fuel stabilizer to your gas tank, you should empty it as well. Stale fuel can damage your engine and affect its performance in the spring.
6 Cover Your Boat for Winter
Whether you’re storing your boat outside or inside, always cover it. Inside, a cover will keep dust and pests away. Outside, a cover protects against harsh rain or snow along with UV rays. Make sure your cover fits snuggly or consider shrink wrapping your boat for full protection.
7 Fill Your Trailer Tires
Most people store their boats on their trailers but neglect basic trailer maintenance. Give your trailer a good inspection and fill your tires up. Tires left for long periods can develop lumps or flat spots.
The Advantage of Self Storage for Boats in Winter
As boat enthusiasts, the last thing we want is to see our prized possessions braving the winter unprotected. And while there are various ways to store a boat during off-season, harboring your boat in a self-storage facility for the winter presents a host of advantages worth considering:
Protection from Harsh Elements
Roofed or indoor storage adds an extra layer of protection against rain, snow and UV rays, ensuring your boat stays dry and clean all winter long.
Enhanced Security
Storage facilities prioritize security. With features like 24/7 surveillance, gated access and on site management, you can rest easy knowing your boat is in safe hands.
Space and Convenience
Free up space in your garage or driveway. Unlike home storage, where space might be limited, storage facilities offer sufficient space to reduce the risk of scratches or damages. Plus, there’s room for skis, life jackets, fishing gear and more.
Accessibility
Self storage means you can always access your boat during business hours. With the unpredictability of winter it is important to be able to check on your vessel or retrieve items. Many facilities are located near popular recreation areas that make it easy to hit the open water again.
Cost-Effective
In the long run, using a storage facility can be cost-effective. The reduced risk of damage, added security and potential maintenance services can save boat owners significant amounts in repairs and replacements.
Peace of Mind
Last but certainly not least, the peace of mind offered by a secure, dedicated space for your boat during winter is invaluable. Instead of constantly worrying about your boat's condition, you can focus on planning your next summer adventure!
Find Winter Boat Storage Near Me
Winterizing your boat might seem like a chore, but you’ll thank yourself come spring. With these tips, a little elbow grease and the right storage location, you'll ensure your boat stays in tip-top shape and is ready for many more adventures. Storelocal makes it easy to find winter storage for boats of all types by simply using our location finder on the top menu bar. For any questions, always feel free to contact us.
