Summer is now over, fun days on the water have come to an end and it is back to cooler, rainy weather. So, the question is… where do you store your boat during those long cold winter months or when you just won’t have the time to take it out on the water?
Keeping your boat home can be a hassle and potentially leave it exposed to the elements.
Here are the top 5 reasons you should be storing your boat at a storage facility:
1. Consider the Climate
The first thing to think about when storing your boat is the local climate. If you live in an area where seasons are definite and predictable, you’ll know exactly when your boat needs to leave the water to be put in dry storage.
However, if you live in a warmer climate where seasons are intermittent and winters can be unpredictable, you might consider moving your boat to dry storage as soon as the weather begins to take a turn. Did you know? Even one over-night freeze can cause serious damage to both the interior and exterior of your boat!
2. Summer Storage
While the weather is warmer, there are many diverse types of storage that allow for simple access to your boat and the water. Most storage facilities that offer boat storage have many other accommodations making it a very cost-effective, convenient option. They can store anything from a small fishing boat to a large pontoon boat.
Boat storage facilities can offer services like extra-wide driveways making controlling the in and out extremely easy.
You also have the option between sealed off, and open-air storage for your boat. Which one you will need just depends on how large of a vessel you are wanting to store, your budget, and how often you would like to access it.
3. Winter Storage
No matter the climate, keeping your boat in dry storage during the cold winter months is vital!
Depending on the elements in your area you will want to decide whether inside or outside storage is adequate to keep your boat safe from any damages. Just make sure if you choose outdoor storage during the winter that you also consider covering it up by buying a fabric cover, tarp, or shrink wrap.
4. Types of Boat Covers
Make sure you buy a cover that fits into your budget since is a necessity!
A plastic tarp is the cheapest and most convenient one to use. These are cost-effective, semi-formfitting, and allow for airflow to prevent mildew and mold. However, due to the low cost, they normally only last one winter and will need to be replaced yearly.
A more solid option would be shrinking wrap. These are and each is formed around your boat to fit it perfectly. While they are air-tight, vents can be installed at an extra cost to provide airflow.
Your final option, a canvas, and frame, is the best option for long-term owners. A wooden frame is built around the top of the boat, and the canvas is then firmly strapped around the frame. While frames are initially expensive to build, this system will last 10 or more years.
5. Regular Spot Checks
You did it! You have found a storage method that works perfectly for you and your family!
However, just because your boat is safely out of the water and tucked away doesn’t mean you get to avoid it for the whole winter. Always remember to perform regular maintenance checks to make sure it’s in the same state it was in when you first stored it. If something breaks or mildew begins to grow, it’s best to know as soon as possible in order to make quick repairs.
If you’re keeping your boat in dry storage, Collect A Store offer 24/7 access so you are always more than welcome to stop by to check on the condition of your boat.
You’ll find Collect A Store in a thriving commercial and residential area the Helderberg in the Western Cape. Our unique collection and delivery service makes us your first choice in self-storage. Our Owner Managed facility will exceed your service expectations, we make deals happen!.
Contact Collect A Store today to reserve your fully secured storage unit today. Simply choose your storage unit and occupation date, and let us handle the rest. Our secure self-storage consultants are just a phone call away to answer all your queries.
ABOUT OUR FACILITY
- Collect A Store offers self-storage at our state of the art facility in Asla Park, Strand in Western Cape.
- We have a multi-level building with heavy goods lifts and trolleys.
- We offer 24 Hour security with CCTV and armed response.
- Self-storage units range from 1 Cubic meter to 35 Square meters.
- Vehicle parking bays are also available.