Guide to How to Store Boat in the House for Long Time Preservation
Owning a boat is a source of pride and joy for many enthusiasts, offering opportunities for adventure and relaxation on the water. However, there may come a time when you need to store your boat at home for an extended period, whether it’s due to seasonal changes, travel restrictions, or personal circumstances.
Properly Store Boat in the House is essential to preserve its condition and ensure it’s ready for use when you’re ready to hit the water again. In this article, we’ll explore the steps and considerations involved in storing your boat at home for the long term.
1. Choose the Right Location
Selecting the right location for storing your boat at home is crucial to its preservation. Ideally, choose a spot that is sheltered from the elements, such as a garage, carport, or covered storage area. If outdoor storage is the only option, consider investing in a boat cover or canopy to provide protection from sun, rain, and snow.
2. Clean and Prepare the Boat
Before storing your boat, thoroughly clean both the interior and exterior to remove dirt, salt, and debris. Pay special attention to areas prone to mold and mildew growth, such as upholstery, carpeting, and storage compartments. Drain all water from the bilge, livewell, and any other compartments to prevent stagnation and corrosion. Lastly, perform any necessary maintenance tasks, such as changing the oil, lubricating moving parts, and inspecting the hull for damage.
3. Protect Against Corrosion
To prevent corrosion and rust, apply a corrosion inhibitor to metal surfaces, including engine components, hardware, and trailer parts. Consider using a marine-grade lubricant on hinges, latches, and other moving parts to keep them functioning smoothly and prevent seizing.
4. Stabilize the Fuel System
Before storing your boat for an extended period, it’s essential to stabilize the fuel system to prevent ethanol-related issues and fuel degradation. Add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank according to the manufacturer’s instructions and run the engine for a few minutes to ensure the stabilizer circulates throughout the system. Additionally, consider topping off the fuel tank to minimize condensation and moisture buildup.
5. Remove Electronics and Valuables
Remove any electronics, valuables, and personal items from the boat before storage to prevent theft or damage. This includes GPS units, fishfinders, radios, life jackets, and other equipment. Store these items in a secure location indoors to protect them from theft, vandalism, or environmental damage.
6. Support the Hull
If storing your boat on a trailer, consider using jack stands or blocks to support the hull and distribute weight evenly. This helps prevent deformation and stress on the hull over time. Avoid storing the boat on uneven surfaces or soft ground, as this can cause instability and damage to the hull or trailer.
7. Monitor and Maintain
Periodically check on your boat while it’s in storage to ensure everything is in good condition. Inspect the cover or canopy for tears or damage and make any necessary repairs promptly. Check for signs of moisture, mold, or pest infestation and address any issues immediately to prevent further damage.
Conclusion
Storing your boat at home for the long term requires careful planning, preparation, and maintenance to ensure its preservation and readiness for future use. By choosing the right location, cleaning and preparing the boat, protecting against corrosion, stabilizing the fuel system, removing electronics and valuables, supporting the hull, and monitoring and maintaining regularly, you can keep your boat in top condition and enjoy many more adventures on the water for years to come.
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