Boat at a serene harbor with frosty peaks in the backdrop
As winter approaches, boat storage becomes a pressing concern.
Ensuring proper boat storage during the colder months is paramount for maintaining your prized vessel in pristine condition. While some might be able to simply store their boat in their garage, for those living in areas with harsh winters, winterizing the boat is a necessity to shield it from potential damage. Neglecting this can lead to extensive damages and hefty repair costs.
Issues like engine malfunctions, faults in the electrical system, or damage to the interior could arise if the boat isn't prepped for winter. Proper winter storage can facilitate a smooth relaunch in spring, extending your boat's longevity, which translates to more delightful moments at sea and less stress. Here are five essential steps to store your boat during winter, brought to you by Budget Storage.
Initiate the winter storage process by deep cleaning your boat, both internally and externally. Regular cleaning during the season will make this task easier.
Spritz a cleaning solution on the exterior and wipe with a microfiber cloth to eliminate dirt and water residues, ensuring longer durability of the gel coating. Pay attention to areas like towers, racks, and speakers that might harbor insects. Consider professional cleaning if stubborn scum lines appear. Waxing can be a proactive step to prevent scum accumulation. Remember to clean the trailer, focusing on parts like axles, crossbars, and wheels.
Ensure the boat's interior is dry. Empty it of wet items such as towels and apparel. Ventilate compartments, clean removable cushions, and deal with any stains using appropriate cleaners. Lastly, vacuum and clean the flooring. To prevent moisture buildup during storage, you can use desiccant bags or moisture-absorbing buckets.
Winterizing is a preemptive step against freezing damage, especially when temperatures plummet.
• Evacuate water and other liquids from the engine.
• Use fogging oil to prevent rust and safeguard engine parts. The engine manual will indicate the ideal oil.
• Incorporate a fuel stabilizer and run the engine to maintain fuel quality and cleanse the engine.
• Introduce antifreeze into systems holding water.
• Drain water systems, including sinks, tanks, and bilges.
• Unplug drain outlets to facilitate water evacuation.
• Ensure battery health by disconnecting them and storing them in a safe place. Periodic checks during winter are advisable.
In warmer regions with mild winters, winterizing might not be essential.
Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, is pivotal. Always switch to fresh oil before winter, even if usage has been minimal. A full tank before storage limits air exposure, reducing condensation possibilities.
Your boat needs protection from environmental factors, which a boat cover provides. A comprehensive cover fends off threats like:
• Snow and ice
• Wildlife intrusion
• Sunlight exposure
• Rainfall
• Wind-driven debris
• Moisture accumulation
For winter, opt for a custom-fitted mooring cover, ensuring it's made from durable materials like acrylic or polyester. Light-colored covers are preferable due to their UV-reflective properties.
Unmonitored boat storage is risky, especially during extended winter breaks.
Finding apt storage can be daunting. At Budget Storage, located at 6805 Commerce Court Drive, Blacklick, OH 43004, we offer diverse storage solutions. Our storage facility can house various boat types, from dinghies to larger vessels.
At Budget Storage, we value your boat's safety. Our self storage units come equipped with advanced security features like electronic gate entry and video surveillance. As winter rolls in, ensure your boat's safety with Budget Storage, your trusted storage partner.
Budget Storage
6805 Commerce Court Drive Blacklick, OH 43004
(614) 236-1278
https://budgetstoragecolumbus.com/
https://goo.gl/maps/cv18c8xbDeFhxqnv6
