Things To Know About Boat Storage In Ontario
Tips When Storing A Boat
Did you know that nearly 13 million Canadians go boating every year? With more access to fresh and saltwater than almost any other nation, it's no surprise that Canadians like to get on the water.
Buying a boat is a dream for so many people. And it's one that's worth it. But there's a lot to consider before buying a boat and bringing it home.
Boat storage is one of the most important considerations. Most people can't store their boats at home (and shouldn't).
So what are your options, specifically when it comes to Ontario boat storage? Keep reading below to learn how to store your boat, and what the best options are regarding boat storage in Ontario.
What Are Your Storing Options?
PWC vs. boat, most people start by answering this question. Personal watercraft are very easy to store at home or in a small storage unit, which is why so many people buy one. But storing a boat is another matter entirely.
Recreational boats come in countless shapes and sizes. The average length of a personal boat is under 26 feet (eight metres).
Most people aren't buying massive boats, but they're often too large to store in a residential garage. And keeping them in the driveway gets old, fast.
Aside from storing them at home, boat storage options include dry storage at an outdoor lot, indoor storage, and in-water storage, such as a marina. Here are the pros and cons of each method.
Dry Boat Storage
Dry outdoor boat storage is the most affordable storage option. Your vessel is stored on a boat trailer in a protected lot. Sometimes they are placed under a canopy, other times they are out in the open.
This method does not protect your boat from the elements, such as UV rays from the sun, rain, snow, ice, or hail.
Indoor Boat Storage
Indoor boat storage is typically the most expensive but is the best option for those who want to keep their boat in pristine condition. Boats are stored in a temperature-controlled facility away from all of the elements.
Even amid Canada's freezing winters, you won't need to worry about frozen pipes.
Aside from the cost, the downside of indoor storage is the need to schedule a pickup, as boats are often stored on racks.
In-Water Boat Storage
A third option is storing your boat in the water, either at your personal dock or at a marina. This is convenient during spells of frequent use but isn't great for long-term storage.
Keeping a boat in the water for extended periods of time leads to damage caused by algae and bacteria, meaning more time spent cleaning your boat. You also run the risk of damage from other boat owners.
Do You Need to Winterize Your Boat if It's Stored Indoors?
Winterising your boat protects it from freezing temperatures, which can wreak havoc on the components of your vessel. If the boat is expected to face temperatures below freezing, you need to winterize.
If your boat is stored in an indoor facility that is heated during the winter, you should be fine to skip the winterization process. If the indoor facility isn't temperature controlled, you'll want to winterize it.
The Do's And Don'ts
If done correctly, storing your boat can ensure it's ready for the upcoming season without costly maintenance or repairs. Here are some do's and don'ts to maximize boat storage options.
Don't: Store Your Boat in the Water
The most important thing you can do is get your boat out of the water. Algae and bacteria will destroy a boat that's left sitting in the water. Plus, it's expensive unless you are using your boat daily.
Do: Secure Your Boat
Whenever your boat is stored, make sure it's secured and locked up appropriately. Don't leave expensive electronics or other personal items on the boat during storage.
While some facilities are insured, others don't guarantee the contents of your boat will be safe.
Don't: Forget Basic Maintenance
Successful boat owners understand that preventative maintenance is crucial. Before storing a boat, especially for the long winter, perform basic cleaning and maintenance tasks.
Do: Insure Your Boat During the Winter
You might not plan to use your boat at all during the winter. But, it's still important to keep your boat insured. Damage can happen at any time, whether it's in the water, at home, or on a storage lot.
Boat Storage Tips
Whether you bought a used boat or a brand new watercraft, you'll want to protect your investment at all times. Here are a few additional boat storage tips to keep in mind.
Prepare the Interior
Empty the boat completely before storing it for long periods. That means taking out life jackets, spare clothing, unopened beverages, trash, and anything else that isn't affixed to the vessel. This will help prevent mildew or odours from building up.
And make sure to give the boat a deep clean, disinfecting surfaces, as well as covering them with plastic wrap to avoid scratches.
Winterize Your Boat
One of the most important things you can do to protect your boat in Canada is to winterize it. The process of winterizing your boat prepares it for long-term storage where freezing temperatures are expected.
You need to replace your engine oil to prevent dirt and debris from causing damage. Drain out all water, which will freeze and cause damage to pipes.
Since fuel can deteriorate in less than two months, you'll need to add a stabilizer to it. Run the engine for a few minutes to distribute it accordingly.
Cover Your Boat
The final step to winterizing your boat, or storing it for long periods of time, is covering it. The best option is shrinkwrap, which is typically applied by staff at the storage facility.
It blocks out all moisture, dust, debris, and critters from making their way on board.
Don't Overlook Boat Storage
It's easy to overlook boat storage when buying a boat. But it's an important consideration that may impact what boat you buy and how you will use it.
If you know how you're going to store your boat, then it's time to start shopping.
You can check out our latest boat deals here to bring a brand new boat home for less.