Winterizing Your Boat

While some people boat all year round, many choose to store their watercraft away for the winter. However, not properly preparing your boat before you put it into storage can result in it becoming seriously damaged. If you want to winterize your boat, but you’re not sure where to start, use this guide from the experts at Spring Brook Marina.

Where to Store

First, you need to find a good location to store your vessel. The cheapest and easiest method is to store your boat in your driveway, though this won’t offer your vessel much protection. Storing your boat in your garage is affordable and will protect it, but this often takes up a lot of space. For many people, the best option is to rent space in a storage facility. Though this costs a bit more, it will keep your vessel secured and protected. Some facilities even offer extras like light maintenance, so research your options. 

Inspect, Clean, and Empty 

Before you store your boat for the winter, you need to thoroughly inspect it and give it a good cleaning. Note any leaks, corrosion, or other damage. Putting your boat into storage doesn’t freeze it in time. Small maintenance issues can get worse while your boat is in storage, so fix them now while they are easy to handle. That way, your boat will be all ready for you to take out on the water come spring!

Don’t forget to remove personal belongings before you put your boat away for the winter. Things like dock lines, fire extinguishers, flares, and life jackets need to be stored at room temperature. Finally, make sure your boat has fully dried before you put it into storage. 

Change the Oil

The next step is to change your oil to prevent condensation from forming while the vessel is in storage. Run your engine for a minute or so to lower the oil’s viscosity, then shut it down. You can then replace the oil and filter. Finally, run your engine for another minute to help circulate the oil. 

Cover

Covering your boat is absolutely critical if you plan to store it outside. Even if you plan to store it in an indoor location, the cover can help keep dust and pests out of your vessel. 

For more information or to view our selection of new and pre-owned boats, visit Spring Brook Marina & Yacht Sales. We also offer parts ordering, financing, trade-ins, maintenance, and other services. You can visit us at any of our six dealership locations throughout the Midwest, such as the one in Chicago, Illinois. We are proud to serve communities like St. Louis, Missouri.