Boat Storage Ideas & Tips

Your boat gives you and your family hours of pleasure out on the water, but it’s more than just a toy, it represents a substantial investment and, as such, it deserves to be stored with the utmost care.

Proper storage of your boat will ensure that you and the family will be able to enjoy it for many years to come. Here are a few ideas and tips to keep your boat in great condition while it’s in storage.

Storing your boat outdoors

Outdoor boat storage is a good option for those looking for cost-effective long-term storage for their vessels. It is particularly good for storing larger vessels which would otherwise have to pay mooring fees.

The boat will, however, be exposed to the elements, so it’s important to adequately cover it with a purpose-made boat cover.

Be sure to choose a well-maintained, pest-controlled, properly secured self storage facility to ensure that your boat is protected against vandalism, theft, and infestation by pests.

Storing your boat indoors

Storing your boat in a secure indoor self storage unit is a great way to ensure your vessel stays in mint condition when not in use. Indoor units offer protection against wind, rain, UV damage, and temperature extremes.

If necessary, look for large self storage units with high entry clearances that will accommodate masts and aerials.

For optimal protection, choose a well-maintained self storage facility where units are weatherproof, pest-free, clean and individually alarmed against theft and fire.

A powered unit will allow you to carry out maintenance on your boat and attach a battery tender or trickle charger to keep the battery in good condition.

If your storage unit is fitted with lights, you’ll be free to work on your boat at any time of the day or night.

Getting your boat in and out of storage

Whether you store your boat in an indoor or outdoor storage space you will have facility access between 6am – 9pm, 7 days a week. As you will likely want access to your boat in the early hours of the morning or dead of night, it’s best to choose a storage facility that offers outside business hour access.

Preparing your boat for long-term storage

1.Wash and wax your boat – To prevent mould,mildew and corrosion by salt and other residues, ensure your boat is clean and dry before putting the covers on or closing the door on your indoor storage unit.

2. Change the oil – Even if you did so recently, change the oil (and the oil filter) again before storing your boat. This ensures there’s no water in the oil which can cause corrosion in the engine during storage.

3. Grease the control mechanism – To ensure the control mechanism is safe and will move properly when you next take the boat out, you need to apply waterproof grease to the joints and steering components.

4. Disconnect the battery or use a battery tender or trickle charger – This will prevent the battery from discharging during storage, so you can start your boat without any hassles when you want to use it.

5. Fill up the fuel tank – It may sound odd, but ensuring your fuel tank is full before long term storage will protect your boat from internal corrosion caused by the gases and condensates that build up in partially filled tanks during storage. Add a fuel stabiliser to ensure your boat is ready to go when you are.

In areas where winters are very cold…

1. Drain the coolant – Flush the entire cooling system with water until all traces of the coolant are gone. Then refill the system with antifreeze to prevent the engine from freezing.

2. Add engine fogging oil – This protects the moving parts of the engine during cold weather. Check your owner’s manual for details on how and where to add fogging oil.

For expert advice on how to store your boat, RV, caravan, jet ski, vintage car or any other vehicle, talk to our friendly team today.

NEED STORAGE? Make your life Roomia.

At Roomia, we offer more than just storage solutions. We offer service, security and understanding. You’ll soon discover how a little extra space can change your life. For a quote, visit roomia.com.au today.