Storing your boat off the water at a facility is affordable and gives you instant access whenever that itch strikes. It also keeps your boat out of sight from prying eyes of thieves and vandals.
Facilities that offer “high and dry” rack storage house boats in warehouse-style, multistory storage racks. This can be a bit more expensive than other storage options. Contact (918) 504-0720 for more details.
Unlike wet storage, indoor boat storage keeps your vessel protected from weather conditions that can damage the engine and other systems. The climate-controlled environment also prevents rust on metal components and mold growth on upholstery and other surfaces. Indoor storage also shields your vessel from UV rays that cause paint to fade and can degrade rubber and vinyl components. The only drawback to this type of storage is that it may be less accessible for boaters in colder climates who need to winterize their watercrafts.
A drive-up self-storage facility that offers indoor boat storage operates much like a garage. You back your boat trailer into the storage space, then load up gear and other supplies. You can choose to rent a unit that is the exact size of your boat, or you can rent a space large enough to accommodate a larger boat and trailer combined. When choosing a unit, be sure to remove all batteries from the boat and keep them in a separate location to avoid damage or corrosion over time. Also, be sure to label all boxes and bins with their contents, making it easier to find items later.
Indoor storage options are typically more expensive than outdoor storage, but they also provide greater security for your boat. These facilities often offer gated access and surveillance cameras, and some also have on-site staff to help ensure that boats and equipment are stored safely and securely.
Another form of indoor storage involves keeping your boat in a covered outdoor area, such as a secure lot, marina, or on your own property. While this option is cheaper than indoor storage, it leaves your boat exposed to the elements throughout the year and can be difficult to access for maintenance tasks. The open air can also promote the development of harmful barnacles and osmotic blisters in fiberglass, as well as create moisture problems and allow for the accumulation of dirt and dust.
When choosing a covered parking or indoor storage option for your boat, be sure to consider its accessibility and whether or not you can fit your vessel in the space available. You should also consider whether or not your boat can stand up to freezing temperatures, snow, and other harsh weather conditions.
Outdoor Storage
If you don’t have the space to store your boat at home or a garage isn’t available, outdoor storage may be a good option. It offers a more affordable alternative to indoor storage, and it’s convenient for keeping boats close to your house or launch point for day trips on the lake. But it doesn’t provide the best protection from sun, precipitation and other factors that can damage your vessel. It’s also not as secure against vandalism and theft as indoor storage is. You’ll need to take extra precautions, such as using marine shrink-wrap and installing a fence around your property.
Driveways and lawns are a popular option for boat storage, but many homeowner’s associations or neighborhood rules forbid you from storing watercrafts there. And while a large backyard may be ideal for a small rowboat or kayak, it won’t offer much protection from rodents, severe weather, UV rays and other factors. Many boaters find that they need to invest in a portable boat shelter or boat canopy to safeguard their vessels from the elements and keep them protected from birds and insects.
Other outdoor storage options include boatyards, which are essentially parking lots for boats, located near water. They often offer overhead protection that’s adequate for most vessels, and they’re usually easy to access from a public road or boat ramp. You can choose from open or covered spaces, which are fenced and accessible through a gate, or fully enclosed boat storage units, which are insulated and climate-controlled.
If you choose to store your boat outside, consider cleaning it thoroughly before and after each use. Ocean salt can corrode propellers and shafts, while harmful barnacles can grow on the surfaces of fiberglass. You’ll want to wash your boat before storing it in the winter, too. Using the right cover, like a breathable mesh cover, will help prevent mold. It’s also a good idea to add a tarp or foam board to the back of your boat to protect it from impact damage when it’s being transported on a trailer. And don’t forget to install a battery-operated or solar-powered boat alarm to deter thieves.
Trailer Storage
Whether you own a small boat or a large watercraft, finding the right storage solution can save you time and money. Properly storing your boat and trailer protects it from weather damage, theft and premature deterioration of critical components like the engine and electrical system. It also frees up space in your home or garage, which can be used for other activities.
There are many different types of boat storage, from fully enclosed structures that offer the best protection to standard parking spaces with little to no coverage. Your budget, the condition and value of your boat and the climate in your region will influence which option is best for you.
Most storage facilities offer outdoor storage for boats, as well as a variety of indoor and covered options. For smaller boats, including fishing boats, small pontoon boats and speed boats, a standard storage unit or outdoor parking space may be enough. For larger boats, especially those that can accommodate a trailer, a covered or indoor storage option is often the best choice.
If you own a jet ski, a personal watercraft or any other type of watercraft, you can store it on its trailer at a storage facility during the offseason. Most facilities have special areas that are equipped for this, and they can help you secure your watercraft and keep it safe in the offseason.
Another popular boat storage option is dry stacked storage. This type of storage involves a warehouse-like setting, where multiple boats are stored on racks and then retrieved using forklifts. The advantage of this type of storage is that it’s usually less expensive than marina storage, while still providing a level of protection for your boat.
Before putting your boat or jet ski in storage, you should thoroughly clean it and remove all belongings. This helps prevent mold, rust and other problems that can occur from the buildup of dirt or salt. You should also drain the bilge and empty water, as well as wash, flush and empty the tanks and fluids. Lastly, you should use a quality boat cover to protect your watercraft from sun and rain, while keeping it off the ground.
Marina Slips
A marina slip is a boat dock that’s specifically designed to hold vessels. This type of storage is preferred by many marinas because it allows more watercraft to be moored along a pier, as opposed to traditional boat docks that are open to the water. When parked in a slip, boats are surrounded on three sides by the dock, so they’re less vulnerable to hazards that could occur while berthing alongside an open dock. In addition, marina slips are often higher than traditional docks, making them easier to board and disembark from a vessel.
There are several types of boat slips, including public and private. Public slips are usually managed by local governments and provide affordability and accessibility. Private slips, on the other hand, are more expensive but offer superior privacy and security.
Both types of slips are available in both covered and uncovered configurations. Covered marina slips protect boats from direct sunlight, which can cause fading and corrosion. They also provide protection from the elements, such as rain and lake debris. This is a great option for boat owners who want to easily access their vessels at a moment’s notice and are willing to pay a little more for a premium experience.
Uncovered marina slips are cheaper but are exposed to the sun and other elements. This may result in a quicker degradation of the boat’s finish. In addition, uncovered slips require more maintenance to keep the vessel looking its best.
When choosing a boat storage solution, you should consider how frequently you’ll use the vessel and where it will be located. A wet slip provides easy access and is perfect for infrequent boaters, while a dry slip offers more protection and is suitable for frequent use.
A storage solution for your boat should be one that you’re comfortable with and will protect your investment. A trusted boat storage provider like VIP can help you determine the right option for your situation. With their knowledge and expertise, you can rest assured knowing your boat is in good hands. For more information about their services and facilities, visit their website today.
