Top Tips to Prepare for Boat Storage During Winter
Winter is coming next month. We know that the temperature might get to even -40°C. And you might already have started preparing for it. From snow blowers to heated ice scrapers and from coats to socks & hats, the right preparation can help you enjoy the great winter in Canada. But, did you think about storing your boat after the boating fun in summer?
Storing your vessel for the winter is different than keeping your car. That’s why we have jotted down some vital tips to start preparing for winter boat storage.
1. Check Out the Vessel for Any Issues
Confirming any potential issues before you place your vessel in storage is the first and foremost task. Go for one last ride on your boat to check any need to repair or replace any engine parts or other marine equipment over the winter. It will help you keep your boat ready to enjoy your first ride of the next fishing season without any problems.
2. Clean Your Boat Thoroughly
The next thing you should do is to clean the inside & outside of your vessel. Once you lift your boat out of the water, please give it a friendly clean up from top to bottom. Remove any barnacles, dirt, or grime that might have built upon the hull. You also need to wash the decks with pressure water for proper cleaning. You can create a checklist of the areas to look through your vessel for cleaning. It will make your job easier & quicker.
3. Check for Scrapes & Dents
Once you clean the boat, look at the underside of it for dents and scrapes. Also, analyze the sidewalls, joints and other parts to ensure no significant gaps or issues that you may want to ask the boat dealer near you. Following this process will help you clarify any doubts about your vessel’s damage before you drop it off for storage.
4. Examine the Filters & Engine
The boat engine is an essential part that needs frequent inspection. If you are storing your boat inside or outside, you should winterize its engine. It would eliminate any possibility of rust or freezing during the winter. Replace the fuel filters, check the engine oil, belts, hoses and clamps. Drain the tank & water lines, replace the water lines if needed, examine the steering cables and refill the gear case with a new lubricant. We recommend contacting your boat dealer or nearby boat service shop to winterize your boat engine with the help of professionals.
5. Remove the Flammable & Valuable Items
We advise you to remove all marine electronics installed on your boat before you store it for winter. Also, remove flares, fire extinguishers, dishes, linens, pots, draperies and other such items from your vessel. Replace or repair any damaged item during winter storage.
6. Cover Your Boat
First, cover the boat engine with a canvas. After that, protect your entire vessel with a cover made up of polyvinyl or poly tarp material. A professional can help you choose the ideal boat cover based on your engine specification and the boat’s size if you do it for the first time. It will help protect your boat from the external elements.
7. Store Your Boat at Right Place
If possible, store your vessel on a trailer and put blocks or pieces of wood under the trailer. It helps protect its tires from damage during the cold. You can even take the help of boat storage facilities near you to keep your boat safe during winter and stay worry-free.
Conclusion
The boating & fishing season on the pacific west coast has come to a close. At Alberni Power & Marine, we have one of the best indoor heated boat storage in Vancouver Island, BC, Canada. Our team of expert professionals take all necessary measures to protect your vessel from any negative impacts during winter. You can ask our boating experts for any query regarding winterizing your boat or getting a quote on your boat storage.