Tuesday, November 26, 2013

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.

A first step that numerous boat owners take is hiring a professional to assist with the task. A company that deals with such matters is apt to have sufficient equipment to prepare a boat for seasonal storage. Professionals may also help in determining whether a vessel should be serviced, before storing it.

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.

Once items have been removed from the interior, and the boat has been cleaned thoroughly, some of its fluids should be drained. Gas may be drained out of the engine, and bathroom waste can be pumped from the tank in which it is held. The oil and filter should generally be changed.

Ideally, a vessel can be housed in a public facility or a residential garage. If the only place available to store it is outdoors, a boat should be sufficiently covered. A simple cover is typically not enough to fully protect a watercraft from harsh weather. A system of tarps may be devised, so the top and sides of a vessel can be protected from snow, rain, hail and sleet.

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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