Over time, rust may reduce a boat’s performance, and repairing the damage might cost hundreds of dollars. The extreme weather might further exacerbate the problem. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain your boat after the summer season finishes in order to prevent the discomfort of having to pay for expensive repairs the next spring.
Do not forget that leaving your boat in the sea is dangerous. The weather, the possibility of sinking if it isn’t watched constantly, and the danger of theft all pose risks to the boat. Boaters of all skill levels would do well to familiarise themselves with their vessels’ wintertime requirements in Canada. Take a few minutes to browse our information on boat storage in Canada to ensure that your vessel is protected from any potential hazards.
Table of Contents
Keep the Boat Clean
Make sure that the whole boat, leading from the hull to the cabin, is cleaned with soap and water. Getting rid of the plants and mollusks that have attached to the hull is a must. Lockers, drawers, fridges, and freezers should all be opened and cleaned as part of the final cleaning cycle.
After a thorough cleaning, the boat will require ample time to dry. Fibreglass boats need frequent maintenance, including the repair of blistering. Grease the hull and superstructure, then polish them till they sparkle.
Check for Repairs
Maintain a close check on the motor and any other components that might need some help throughout the course of the winter. Examine the boat’s hull carefully for any symptoms of fractures that, if left unattended, might spread and become more severe. To keep your boat in pristine condition, you can opt for Ignition Marine which offers premium marine upholstery and canvas services in Canada at excellent prices.
Lubrication Is Important
Put some lubricant on the pedals, the wheel, and the rest of the controls. We recommend using a small spray of a moisture-displacing lubricant on all metal working parts, including hinges, levers, and connectors. The propeller has to be disassembled so that it may be inspected for ragged fishing lines and worn-out seals, greased, and reassembled.
Take a Look At the Boat Oil and Battery
A corroded engine is the result of water in the oil. In order to prevent any long-term damage when stored, it is recommended that the boat’s oil be changed before stowing.
To fully charge the battery, you must remove it from the device. Remove any dirt or corrosion from the battery terminals, and then apply a thin layer of grease. The same should be done to the terminals of the battery cables. Put the battery away somewhere warm and dry until spring, and don’t forget to wait until then to put it back in the boat.
Inspect the Exhaust Ports
Taping over the exhaust ducts of a yacht is recommended in order to prevent undesirable insects from entering the vessel. These can cause maintenance problems.
Conclusion
If you don’t prepare and store your boat correctly for the Canadian winter, it might be heavily damaged. It’s important to think about things like placement while deciding how to keep your boat out of the way. Taking the aforementioned measures should help you winterize your boat safely and get it ready for the beautiful spring and summer days ahead.
