Friday, November 22, 2013

Helpful Winter Boat Storage Tips Provided By St. Petersburg Marinas

By Jamie Muck


When a water vessel is going to be in storage for longer than a few days, proper storage is essential to keep it in good shape. A watercraft might need to be replaced or repaired, if it is not properly stored. To someone who must put a boat in storage for the months of winter, some tips from St. Petersburg Marinas could be helpful.

Hiring a professional is the first step that countless boat owners take. Certain equipment is needed to get a vessel prepared for months in storage, and a company that handles boat storage is likely to have such equipment available. Whether a watercraft should be serviced before being stored is something that professionals can usually determine.

Some individuals choose to store their water vessels without assistance from professionals. If a person opts to store a boat without help from a professional, a good first step could be to remove as many things as possible from inside the vessel. Life vests, cushions, and personal items should be removed, so that they are not unnecessarily exposed to moisture during the winter months.

The boat should be drained of various fluids, after items are removed and the vessel is thoroughly cleaned. Bathroom waste can be pumped out of its tank, and gas may be drained from the engine. Changing the oil filter and the oil is also advisable.

Ideally, a watercraft can be stored inside a public facility or a private garage. If it must be stored outside, it should be covered appropriately. A simple boat cover is probably not enough to protect a vessel from harsh weather. A tarp system can be devised, so that the top and all sides of a boat are protected from rain, snow, sleet and hail.

Boat ownership is a privilege, and it comes with responsibility. Storing a vessel properly is an essential part of preserving it. By following a few tips offered by St. Petersburg Marinas, the owner of a watercraft can use and enjoy it, once the winter weather has passed.




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