Winter can be a difficult season for aluminum boats of all sizes if they are not properly protected and winterized. As a leading provider of complete marine services and boat storage solutions, the team at Bridgeview Marine knows how much damage a boat can suffer if it is not winterized before it is stored. That is why we have compiled a list of tips for winterizing your aluminum boat to help you minimize the risk of damage and ensure that your boat is ready to use when the weather warms up.
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4 Steps to Winterize Your Aluminum Boat
To ensure that your aluminum boat is sufficiently prepared for winter, you will need to complete the following steps:
1. Inspect Key Areas of Your Boat
Whether you are storing your boat on your property or choosing a boat storage provider, it is crucial to perform a full inspection of your vessel before you store it for the season. During your inspection, note the condition of your hull, electronic components, deck, and engine. Ensure that any repairs or replacements are made as necessary, as any form of damage can become exponentially worse over winter. After your inspection is complete, be sure to remove any safety jackets, electronic devices, and other items from your boat and store them in a safe place for winter.
2. Clean Your Boat
Freshwater and saltwater boats can become extremely dirty over time. Before storing your boat for winter, take the time to wash it down. This will remove all accumulated dirt and flora, minimizing the risk of these substances freezing and causing damage to your boat’s exterior. After cleaning your boat, be sure to remove the drain plug and raise the bow to drain any excess water inside the vessel. Leaving water in your boat will cause it to turn to ice over winter, increasing the risk of damage to your deck or electrical components (if applicable).
3. Check the Engine
Without proper winterization, your engine will be at risk of severe degradation and damage over winter. Before storing your boat, be sure to change your engine’s oil and oil filter if needed. Next, spray fogging oil through the carburetor while the engine is running to minimize the risk of interior rust formation. Finally, fill your gas tank to max capacity and add some fuel stabilizer to reduce the risk of gas deterioration and moisture formation within the tank.
4. Find a Quality Cover or Choose a Storage Provider
If you will be storing your boat on your property, be sure to invest in a high-quality cover that will provide reliable protection for your vessel. While you may be tempted to opt for a cheaper cover, this can increase the risk of damage over time. If your cover helps to minimize the risk of unexpected repair costs, it is well worth the additional price. If you do not have room to store your vessel, you will need to choose a reliable boat storage provider to store your boat for you. To ensure that you are choosing the right provider, check reviews and ask questions about storage options and rates.
To learn more about boat winterization or to inquire about our boat storage solutions, get in touch with the experts at Bridgeview Marine. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our products or services.