How to Store Your Boat

A Comprehensive Guide to Boat Storage 

As a boat owner, proper storage is one of the most important aspects of maintaining your investment. 

Proper boat storage not only ensures the longevity of your vessel but also helps keep it in top condition for future adventures. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about storing a boat, including various tips and tricks to help you with the process.

Choosing the Right Storage Options

There are several storage options available for boat owners, such as:

• Indoor storage buildings
• Outdoor storage properties
• Individual self-storage units
• Marina slips
• Dry-stack storage
• Storing at home (yard or garage)

Each option comes with its own set of pros and cons, so consider factors like cost, security, accessibility, and protection from the elements when making your decision. Indoor storage buildings and self-storage properties offer the best protection from the weather. Additionally, self-storage properties have security to deter theft or vandalism.

Steps to Prepare Your Boat for Storage

Before placing your boat in storage, follow these steps to ensure it’s ready for its rest period:

• Remove all personal items and valuables.
• Disconnect the battery and remove any electronics.
• Drain water from the bilge, water tanks, and plumbing systems.
• Empty fuel tanks and add a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation.
• Remove sails, canvas covers, and cushions to prevent mold and mildew growth.
• Seal any openings, such as ports, vents, and hatches, to keep out pests and moisture.

How to Clean Your Boat

A thorough cleaning is essential before storing your boat. This prevents dirt, grime, and salt buildup from causing damage over time.

Here’s how to clean your boat properly:

• Rinse the exterior with fresh water to remove salt and dirt.
• Use a mild soap and soft brush to scrub the hull, deck, and fittings.
• Clean the interior, including compartments, seating, and surfaces.
• Dry all surfaces thoroughly to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Engine Care

Proper engine maintenance is crucial for long-term boat storage. 

Follow these steps to prepare your engine:

• Flush the engine with fresh water to remove salt and debris.
• Change the engine oil and filter.
• Add a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation.
• Fog the engine with fogging oil to protect internal components from corrosion.
• Remove the propeller and store it separately to prevent theft.

Considerations while Storing a Boat Under-cover

If you’re storing your boat under a cover, keep these considerations in mind:

• Choose a high-quality, breathable boat cover that fits your vessel properly.
• Ensure proper ventilation to prevent condensation and mold growth.
• Use support poles to prevent water from pooling on the cover.
• Check the cover periodically for damage and make repairs or replace it as needed.

Weatherizing the Boat

This is essential to protect your boat from harsh weather conditions during storage. 

Some steps to weatherize your boat if you decide to store it outside:

• Apply a protective wax coating to the hull and any exposed metal parts.
• Lubricate moving parts, such as hinges and winches, to prevent corrosion.
• Inspect and replace any damaged or worn seals, gaskets, and hoses.
• Cover the exhaust ports to prevent pests from entering the engine.

Steps to Keep the Boat Secure

Securing your boat during storage is critical to prevent theft and vandalism. 

Some steps to ensure boat security include:

• Lock all doors, hatches, and compartments.
• Remove valuable items and electronics.
• Use a wheel lock or trailer hitch lock if your boat is stored on a trailer.
• Store your boat in a well-lit, secure area with surveillance cameras.

Safety Measures Required for Boat Storage

Lastly, prioritize safety when storing your boat:

• Check local regulations and guidelines for boat storage.
• Store flammable materials, such as fuel and propane tanks, according to safety guidelines.
• Ensure fire extinguishers and other safety equipment are up-to-date and easily accessible.

Easy Boat Storage at Guardian 

Proper boat storage is crucial for maintaining your vessel’s longevity and performance. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an experienced boat owner who knows how to care for their prized possession. Remember, self-storage is typically a better solution to protect your boat from the elements and theft versus storing your boat in your backyard or driveway.

Guardian Storage is a leading provider of self-storage solutions, offering comprehensive storage options for a wide range of items, including boats. We have a wide range of storage options to choose from, including indoor and outdoor storage units. Our indoor storage units are climate-controlled to protect your boat from extreme temperatures, while our outdoor storage units are spacious enough to store boats of all sizes.

State-of-the-art security systems protect your boat, including video surveillance and electronic gate access. The storage units are also equipped with individual locks, giving you peace of mind that only you have access to your boat.

Guardian Storage offers excellent customer service, making it easy for boat owners to store their vessels without any hassle. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff help you choose the most suitable storage option based on your boat’s size, needs, and budget. We also make renting and paying for storage units simple and convenient with online rental and payment options and flexible lease terms.

Guardian Storage is excellent for boat owners looking for reliable, safe, and affordable storage. Our extensive range of storage options, top-notch security features, and exceptional customer service make us stand out from competitors.

Contact us today to learn more about The Guardian Difference.