(Keep in mind there are probably several more things you can do to store your boat properly than what’s mentioned in this blog so contact your boat’s manufacturer for more information on how to completely and properly store your boat. What’s mentioned here are just the basics).
First of all, we have to remember, when it rains it pours and that means your boat is going to get wet. But why should you care? After all boats are meant to be in the water right? Well, the fact is that your boat’s surface, including all its furniture and Bimini top, need to be protected.
So where do we begin? For starters, make sure your boat is clean and dry and anything that’s broken or torn is fixed. Once you’re ready to haul your boat out of the water and into storage, you need to find a place to store it. Preferably you will want to store it where it won’t get hit by debris or damaged by random acts of craziness. This means choosing a place like your backyard – which should be free and clear of trees and branches – or a storage facility.
Now that you’ve got the storage place squared away, you will want to make sure that your boat is clean. Use fabric cleaners to clean your boat’s furniture. Spray it down and clear any debris or dirt. And remember to take out that bilge drain plug! Make sure the boat is completely dry when you’re ready to store it. That means you need to drain it of any excess water.
Next, you want to make sure your boat is stored off the ground. That means using jack stands or a trailer or any other type of stand for your boat. Jacking up your boat and supporting its engine, keel, and bulk heads will help ensure your boat is properly stored and keep it from getting distorted.
Also, here are some more simple tips for storing your boat:
Once you’ve got that all squared away, it’s time to think about how to cover your boat. Choosing the right winter storage cover is not as easy as you might think; it involves some research. After all, this is the one piece of material that’s going to protect your boat all winter long; you don’t want to use just anything, you’ll want something that’s going to help prevent mildew and mold from growing.
Choosing the right cove means you should know the following:
Once you have your choices made, you can call your local boat shop and find the right cover for your needs. Remember, a boat cover is the first line of defense against inclement conditions so choose it wisely! And be sure to store your boat properly!
Now that you know a little more about how to store your boat, let us know how we can help you with your next project. For more information about Herculite’s specialty fabrics visit us at http://www.herculite.com. Or feel free to call us if you would like more information about our products and services at 800-772-0036.