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WCK's Top 10 Tips for Winter Boat Storage

WCK's Top 10 Tips for Winter Boat Storage

Posted by Truman Proudfoot on 2019 Nov 7th

It’s that time of year again, people putting away their paddles and pulling out their skis. There’s still lots of paddling to do, and plenty to be mindful of if you're putting away your gear for the season...

Check out WCK’s Top 10 Tips for Winter Boat Storage:

  1. Don’t store under house eaves-- canoes and kayaks can be damaged by the weight of falling snow and ice!
  2. Use cockpit covers to keep your outfitting well-protected from hungry critters, and spideys from nesting in your kayak! Check here if you're in need of some cockpit covers
  3. If you have a sit-on-top kayak, be mindful of any recessed rodholders or scupper-holes, as freezing water can expand and cause serious damage.
  4. Make sure the hull is properly supported during storage, you do not want your craft to deform over the winter!
  5. If you are using a storage cover, make sure it can breathe, otherwise mould and mildew will grow. Also, trapped moisture could discolour the hull. Danuu covers work as storage or travel covers and allow your boat to properly breathe!
  6. If you use your boat in salt-water, properly rinse and clean with fresh water before putting it away for the winter.
  7. If you are not going to be using your boat for the rest of the season, consider a cable or lock so it will be safer from opportunists. Check here for some locking options
  8. Be mindful of possible falling hazards, like old trees. (Windstorms typically bring us half-a-dozen boats a year for repairs!)
  9. Your gear is just as important- clean and dry it for the season so it lasts as long as possible!
  10. Now is the best time to check over your boat for needed work or maintenance. The wait times in the Summer will be considerably longer and will keep you from enjoying your boat when it matters most!

Give us a call @ 1.604.853.9320 (or toll-free @ 1.866.644.8111) to organize an appointment for your off-season boat care and repair!