When it is time to wrap up this year’s boating season, you’ll want to make sure you take good care in winterizing and storing it, so you don’t have to deal with any unexpected surprises or stress come spring time.
Owning a boat is much different than owning a car. For landlocked families here in the Alliston area who experience some harsh winter conditions, you boat is only put to use when the weather and season allows for it. As boating is a hobby for several individuals, it’s critical that you take the proper precautions when storing and maintaining your boat. Needlessly stretching your budget to pay for easily avoidable damages is the last thing you want to do deal with.
To keep your watercraft in great condition while in storage, while preventing mildew and corrosion, there are some necessary things you need to do. Let’s take a look:
Perform a Thorough Cleaning
Start by taking out any fabrics or leather when possible, to prevent mould. It is best to then place a moisture absorbent item inside to help stop moisture build-up as this can cause all kinds of trouble for your boat. Next it is time to empty the water tank, during any areas of the boat where water has gathered. All of this will help significantly in reducing the development of mould. Always gather up any electronics that you may have stored inside your boat. Keep in mind that if you are storing these in a storage unit, never place them on the concrete ground as dust and moisture will likely be present, potentially damaging your electronics.
Aside from scrubbing the hull, you’ll also want to make sure you inspect and clear out any other items of importance.
The Engine
Be sure that you spray the engine’s interior with fogging oil as this helps to prevent rust from occurring. If you’ll be storing your boat over the winter season, make sure that your fuel tank is full with a high quality fuel stabilizer. You may wish to even run the engine briefly to check that the treatment does in fact make its way to the engine. Do a standard oil change to stop rust formation in the future, and flush the coolant system in your boat, adding new antifreeze. Take out any drive belts and batteries because failing to do so can lead to cracking as your boat remains in storage. It’s also a good idea to lubricate bearings and joints with marine-grade oil, and grease the steering mechanism at the same time.
Exterior
Consider waxing your boat after you’ve given it a thorough cleaning. Again, this extra step will help to stop the potential for rust formation.
Dry Everything
Once you’ve completed all of the engine maintenance, you’ll want to make sure the boat is entirely dried out. Take this time to look for possible leaks as well; water can enter inside any area a leak is present, such as through your vents or hatches. Inspect your boat inside and out to dry up any areas there may be water. If you do discover a leaky spot you can patch up or fix the problem now, rather than finding out about it while you’re on the water.
Put Away in Storage
Taking the steps to winterize and store your boat properly will help to prevent any unnecessary insurance claims. At many self-storage locations like at Alliston Self Storage, you can store your boat indoors with a heated storage unit.
If you have any questions about storing your boat, just reach out to our team! Alliston Self Storage is managed by storage experts and would love to help you out!