The Hull Truth: Preparing Your Hull For Winter Storage
We’re sad to say that summer is officially over. The cold weather is creeping in and our weekends on the water are coming to an end. Which means now is the time to start making your plans for winterizing and storing your boat. Preparing your hull for winter storage can feel like a daunting task, so we’ve broken it down into four key steps. Check out this blog for guidance on storing your boat for winter!
Step 1: Clean the hull
If your boat has spent the season in the water, use a pressure washer or scraper to clear it of marine growth like barnacles and algae. Then, use marine-grade soap, a soft brush, and fresh water to clean the entire hull. If you have tough stains like rust or waterlines, use a specialized cleaner. But first, read the bottle to ensure it won’t damage your hull’s finish. Ensure that you allow your hull to dry completely before storage. After it’s dry, you can apply a protective layer of marine-grade wax to the hull. This will shield the surface from UV rays, protect the gelcoat, and make cleaning easier next season.
Step 2: Inspect the hull
After cleaning, it’s important to perform a comprehensive inspection of the hull. Carefully examine the entire hull surface, especially fiberglass hulls, for any small bubbles or raised areas, which could indicate osmosis. Next, use a rubber mallet to lightly tap the hull. A different sound in one area compared to others can signal a weak spot or delamination. For aluminum hulls and boats with underwater hardware, check for signs of corrosion or pitting. Examine the propeller and propeller shaft for dings, bends, and other damage. Check the rudder and its bearings for excessive movement. Remove any tangled fishing line or debris from the propeller shaft to prevent seal damage.
Step 3: Repair minor damage
Don’t wait until next boating season to make your repairs. Address any issues found during your inspection before storing your boat. For small chips or scratches in a fiberglass gelcoat, you can use a gelcoat repair kit to sand down the area and apply new gelcoat. Blisters should be ground out and repaired with a two-part epoxy. This is a critical repair that prevents water from entering and damaging the hull structure. For minor corrosion on aluminum, use a marine-grade aluminum cleaner. For any significant damage, such as delamination, large cracks, or extensive corrosion, consult a professional boatyard or marine mechanic.
Step 4: Prepare the hull for storage
After cleaning, inspecting, and repairing, take these final steps before storing your boat. If the boat will be stored on jack stands, make sure they are placed under bulkheads and properly braced to evenly distribute the weight. Leave compartments open and use moisture absorbers or a dehumidifier to prevent mold and mildew growth. A snug-fitting, breathable boat cover or shrink wrap will protect your boat from dust, pests, snow, and rain. Ensure it is secured tightly to prevent wind damage.
Where Can I Find Winterization And Storage Services Near Me?
Would you rather let professionals handle preparing your boat to be stored for the winter? If you’re near La Porte, Indiana, then Fay’s Marina has you covered! We offer winterization and storage services to give you peace of mind that your boat will be in top shape for the next boating season!
Our boat storage facility is equipped with state-of-the-art security measures, ensuring that your vessel is kept safe and secure throughout the storage period. We offer both indoor and outdoor storage options to accommodate boats of all sizes. In addition to storage, we also offer professional winterization services to prepare your boat for the colder months. Our skilled technicians will perform a thorough inspection of your vessel, drain all water systems, add antifreeze as necessary, and protect all vital components to prevent damage from freezing temperatures.
If you’re interested in learning more about our winterization and storage services, get in touch with us!