Prepping Your Boat and Canvas for Winter Storage
Published: Tuesday, November 30, 2021
Winter is not something boaters look forward to but acting now before the boat is away for the winter can help avoid unnecessary heartache (and repair bills) when spring rolls around and the boat is getting lake-ready.
Take care of the engine, fuel system, and cooling system first; you can either DIY or let a dealer take care of this part for you.
As for the rest of the winter prep, while you have the boat in the driveway, clean it! Give a thorough wash and wax to the outside. Next, clean the interior and use a vinyl cleaner with a protectant to help preserve your seating. Then, make sure your boat is DRY to prevent mold and mildew growth. Remove and store whatever you can. There is no need to leave anything that may gather dirt and moisture.
Don’t forget about the canvas. If you have a bimini top on your boat, go ahead and take it off the boat, wash the canvas, and allow it to air dry. Now would also be the ideal time to wipe a light wax on your framework to help protect it from any corrosion. It would be best to store indoors, if possible. If you have enclosure curtains, it would be good to invest in a cleaner and protective polish made specifically for your isinglass type. After cleaning your curtains, make sure that you store them flat with an old towel or sheet in between the pieces. Under the bed is a great place to keep these over the winter.
If you utilize a boat cover, make sure to tent correctly to prevent water from pooling. Check on your boat often, especially after storms. Make sure to keep your cover free of snow, debris, and water.
Following these steps should help you get on the water quickly when the season starts.
For all your canvas questions, reach out to Great Lakes Boat Top at www.greatlakesboattop.com.
A version of this article appeared in the Buyer's Guide (November/December) 2022 of Great Lakes Scuttlebutt magazine.
tags: Canvas & Upholstery, Winterization
