Since winter is the off-season the boat owners have to make up their mind as to how to store their boats. Apart from proper storage of your boat, you will also have to correctly winterize your boat.

If the places where you live have a climate with frigid winters then you must keep your boat away from water for a number of months every year. You have to decide whether to store your craft indoors, or to brave the factors and pack it outside.

Clearly if you use an outboard motor with your boat, you can store the motor indoors and the boat itself outdoors. This might be a fairly simple solution. However, if you are thinking about outdoor boat storage and your craft has an inboard engine, there are additional factors to consider with your decision.

It is not dangerous to keep your boat outdoors during cold months and even in snow, but if the cold weather persists for a long time, it could prove tricky to avoid problems.

If the engine or other components become frozen, it could result in expensive reparation that must wait all the way until springtime. So those who live in extremely cold whether should really rule out this option.

Study the manufacturer’s advice on how to properly ready your boat for winter outdoors. If you have any additional concerns, ask the boat dealer you purchased your product from. Make sure that all accessories used for preparation are approved by the manufacturer, because any other products could be seen as a void of your warranty.

Engines will have to be drained with special oils and coolants. Any susceptible or costly tool which is detachable should be detached and stored indoors. Cover the boat fully with a hard-wearing tarp. Do not use cheap plastic covers for this purpose. Get heavy-duty canvas and also big ones which might cover boat fully and from all sides.

When warmer weather arrives, promptly uncover your boat and fully inspect it for any damage. Pay particular attention to any signs of rot or animal intrusion, and cracks due to the cold. Have any damage repaired as soon as possible, and certainly before putting the boat into the water.

Simply follow manufacturer’s directions for outdoor craft storage and cover your boat with good quality canvas. Also frequently test the boat during winter. The steps outlined if followed then you will have no problems with your craft at the first sign of spring.

Tags: Climate Change