As the cold off-season months approach, boat owners must decide how they are going to store their craft. In addition to deciding where to store your boat, you also have to know how to properly winterize your boat.
When one lives in a severely cold climate, it is obvious that you must leave your boat out of the water during this time. The first option would be to keep the boat indoors where it is dry, or whether to gamble and store it outside.
If you make use of an outboard motor then you can lay up the motor indoors and the boat outdoors. This is a simple solution. But if you think to stow your craft outside and your boat has an inboard engine, then you must take extra considerations along with your decision.
It is perfectly safe to store your boat out of doors during the cold months, even if you experience low temperatures and significant snowfall. However, if temperatures tend to fall in the minus zero range for long periods, it may be difficult to avoid damage.
Freezing can damage engines and other parts, resulting in costly repairs that must be taken care of in the spring. Thus, most of us can use outdoor boat storage, but owners living in extreme climates probably want to consider another solution.
When you store your craft outdoor then make sure that you check the manufacturer's suggestions when winterizing your boat. Also seek the advice of your dealer in case of any doubts. Use only those products for winterizing process which is approved by the manufacturer and if you use any other products your boat warranty may become void.
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.
If you follow manufacturer's instructions for outdoor boat storage, cover your craft with a high-quality tarp, and regularly check on the boat during the winter, you will have no problems and be on the water at the first sign of spring.