Did you know that the first boats were built by the Egyptians? They were made with reed and grass into sewing planks with straps.
Are you a boat owner or considering becoming a boat owner but are wondering how to store a boat? In this article, explore what options you have as far as storing your pride and joy. Read on to discover how proper storage is vital in order to keep your boat in tip-top shape.
Why Store a Boat?
There can be various reasons why you’ll need boat storage such as this boat storage facility. One of the reasons is to secure your boat from the outdoor elements.
Whether you live in a cold or warm location, hurricanes, storms, blizzards, and other natural disasters can damage your boat. Some storage locations offer indoor boat storage to protect your boat from the weather outside.
More Space
When you’re wondering where to store a boat, it’ll save you space at your home to choose a storage unit. You’ll have more room and won’t have to worry about a boat in front of your home.
HOA Fees
Certain communities don’t let their residents store their boats due to HOA restrictions. If you’re considering storing your boat outside your home, find out the rules for your area.
Security
Did you know that there are 18 million boats owned by Americans? When you choose a storage facility, you’ll be providing your boat with security. Many storage facilities are behind gates with alarms and 24/7 monitoring. Some storage facilities even offer private cameras per facility.
Great Access
You can choose an outdoor storage facility for your boat that you can drive right up to the unit. Check out what hours you can access your boat depending on the location.
Boat Storage Options
Did you know that in 1812 an American ship rescued a British crew who was stranded on an island? There are multiple options when it comes to storing your boat, whether that’s at your home, a marine, or a storage facility.
While keeping your boat at home is the least expensive option, this comes at a price such as a lack of space. It’ll also be exposed to all types of weather when it’s outside.
At storage facilities, you can consider indoor boat storage facilities, outdoor boat storage spaces, and boatyards. Marinas are an expensive option, and it’s outside with the elements.
How To Get Your Boat Ready for Storage?
Even if you’re storing your boat in a storage facility, you’ll still want to winterize it and perform routine maintenance. This is to make sure that it’s ready for when you take it out into the water.
Fix any repairs that your boat needs before you place it into storage. Any dings or cracks should be fixed before they become worse. Decide whether you can fix these mechanical problems yourself, or if you’ll need to bring them to a boat mechanic.
You’ll also want to use a fuel stabilizer and fill your gas tank. This is important if it’ll be in storage for a long period of time.
Check your boat’s engine and ensure that it’s running well. Disconnect the fuel. Let it continue to run until it stops.
Your boat’s propeller shaft needs to be lubricated as well. It’s a good idea to lubricate it again before storing it.
Use fogging oil on your carburetors and spark plugs. First, remove the spark plugs and spray the cylinders.
You’ll also want to clean out the gear case. This can be done by draining the gear case after unhooking the flusher. Refill it with lubricant.
Take a look at the cables and steering column. Clean them of residue, and spray them with anti-corrosion.
Boat Covers
Before storing your boat, you’ll want to look into different boat covers. If you’re on a budget, you can consider buying a plastic tarp for your boat.
Plastic tarps prevent mold and mildew and allow air to flow. Since they’re a less expensive option, they don’t last long, just for one winter.
Another option is a frame and canvas. This is where you have a wooden frame built around your boat, and the canvas goes around the frame. This is the best option for long-term boat owners since it lasts longer.
A better option than a plastic tarp is shrink wrap. They go around your boat in order to fit. You can pay extra to ensure that they allow airflow.
Indoor Boat Storage
A great way to protect your boat from the weather is indoor boat storage. You can find a storage facility near you and see what options they have. Some units have climate control as well.
If you’re looking for drive-up access, this might not be the best option for you. Unless you go with a storage unit that’s outside.
Since it’s an indoor unit they’ll cost more than outdoor options. You’ll also need to determine if your boat will fit into the unit after taking a look at the height and width.
Covered Boat Storage
A less expensive option is a covered outdoor storage spot. This is where parking spots for boats have a covering. It’s a better option than having your boat without a cover.
Many facilities will have keypad entry and surveillance cameras with your boat behind a gate. Your boat will be somewhat protected from the weather.
This option is more difficult to find at storage facilities. Outdoor and indoor units are more common. Since it’s a covering over the top only, your boat is exposed to different outdoor elements.
Boat Lifts
If you’re looking for short-term storage, you can keep your boat on a boat lift at a marina. It’ll be easy to access your boat and keep it dry.
The three types of boat lifts are bottom standing, floating, and suspending. Whether your dock will be floating or fixed will determine what type of lift you’ll need.
Cons
The cons are that it’s ideal for short-term storage only. Your boat will be exposed to the elements, flooding, and pests in the water. A boat lift might not be able to deal with extreme weather either.
Pros
Since it’s right at the marina you can be on the water right away. No having to worry about a trailer and bringing your boat to a different location. It’s easy to access as well.
Indoor vs Outdoor Storage
Before deciding between outdoor and indoor storage, it’s a good idea to shop around and check out different storage units in your area. Make sure you winterize your boat first before storing it.
All electronics and valuables need to be removed before you store your boat. This can include GPS devices as well.
In the wintertime, you’ll want to charge your batteries at least once a month. Your best option is that your boat will be in a dry and cool location.
Picking Your Storage Facility
In order to pick out the right storage facility, you’ll want to check online to see their reviews. While one negative review isn’t a deal-breaker, it’s a good idea to look for a facility that has a large number of positive reviews.
For newer facilities, ask them for testimonials or other information that can help you out. Search online for more information on that facility and see what others have to say.
Next, check out what storage options they have and if that’ll fit and work for your boat. Find out the rules and requirements for boat storage at that facility, and the price. It’s a good idea to come up with a budget for your boat’s storage and stick to it.
Consider picking a storage facility that has experience with boat storage. Do others trust to leave their boats there as well?
Accessibility
Decide whether you’ll need a location with 24-hour access or not. If necessary, do they have drive-up units?
Location
How far is it from your home or job? You might want a storage facility that’s close by so that you can go at different times.
Conditions
Is the facility in tip-top shape? Remember that a storage facility can promise you the world, but you’ll want one that proves what they say. Do they have a good amount of visibility and lighting in the evening?
Avoid a storage facility that doesn’t have much occupancy. Pick a facility that has courteous, responsive, and great customer service.
Is the facility kept clean? Remember those clean driveways mean a lower risk of fire hazards and other risks.
Answering the Question To, Can I Store a Boat in a Storage Unit?
Now that you’ve explored the answer to the question, can I store a boat in a storage unit, you should have a better idea if it’s right for you. Would you like to read more lifestyle content? For everything from entertainment to lifestyle, check out our other articles today.