Buying a boat can be a serious investment, and that is why it is so important to make sure that you properly winterize your watercraft at the end of every season. Even though many companies offer comprehensive winterizing services, every boat owner should know how to carry out basic maintenance tasks. Here is a look at three winterizing tips that will help you avoid some major headaches next spring.
Stabilize The Fuel
Prepping your engine for the off-season is the most important step in this process if you want to prevent expensive damage. Unfortunately, many experts disagree on how to stabilize the fuel and what should be done with the gas that is left in the tank. As a general rule, the fuel tank should be filled to the halfway mark before adding stabilizer to the system. Those who don’t know how to stabilize their fuel need to contact a local boat mechanic to make sure that this step is carried out correctly. An experienced mechanic can also help you with other winterizing tips such as what to do with the battery and how to properly dispose of toxic liquids.
Spend Some Extra Time On Hull Maintenance
Stress cracks and hull blisters must be taken care of whenever you plan on storing your boat for an extended period of time. Minor cracks and fractures can quickly turn into extensive damage once the weather begins to cool off or the humidity levels change. Luckily, most blisters and cracks can easily be repaired with an epoxy-based filler. This type of filler is specifically designed to withstand seasonal changes. It is also extremely easy to use and relatively inexpensive. Investing in marine hardware is crucial if you want your boat to be 100% safe at all times. This is one of the essential things you should be looking to spend money on.
Don’t Neglect Your Dock
Even though dry storage might seem like a good option, your watercraft will be much more susceptible to temperature fluctuations if it is out of the water. Those who decide on wet storage should contact a dock repair company, like the professionals at Abbotts’ Construction Services Inc., a few weeks in advance to make sure that there is ample time to carry out any maintenance that is needed. Once the boat is in the water, you should invest in a high-quality cover designed specifically for the make and model of your boat. The cover is your boat’s first line of defense against the elements.
All of these steps can be carried out by professionals, and you might want to think about contacting them if you have any questions or concerns. Properly winterizing a boat is extremely dependent on the local climate, and that is why working with nearby experts is often well worth the money. Use the tips above, as well as any you find in your own research to winterize your boat to the best of your ability.
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