9 Forgotten Steps With Boat Storage
Why Proper Boat Storage Matters
You're not just parking your boat when you put your boat away for the season. You're also protecting a property that's worth a lot. If you store your boat correctly, you can avoid corrosion, mold growth, pest damage, and expensive fixes the next time you take out your boat in the water. A little work now will make things go smoothly later.
Clean Your Boat Inside and Out Thoroughly
It's not enough to just do a quick rinse. You should take the time to clean your boat inside and out. Grease, algae, and salt water can eat away at your boat's metal, and bugs are drawn to food or drinks left over from a party. You should clean every surface and remove everything from the fridge. A clean boat is clutter-free, doesn't grow mold, and doesn't smell.
Drain Everything
Saltwater is your boat’s worst enemy during storage. Check for common areas where water might collect, including bilges, onboard freshwater systems, and grey water tanks. Small amounts can freeze and expand in freezing climates, damaging pipes or hardware. Use a shop vac to drain the hidden puddles, and leave compartments open to air dry entirely.
Fuel System Treatment
One of the most common mistakes is pouring in fuel stabilizer but not running the engine afterward. Fuel needs to be treated and circulated throughout the entire fuel system. Fill the tank to minimize condensation, add stabilizer, and let the engine run for 10 minutes. This keeps the lines clean and prevents clogging your fuel injectors when you start it up again in spring.
Don’t Skip Fogging the Engine
Engine fogging may seem overkill, but it’s one of the best ways to prevent internal corrosion. When the engine runs, spray fogging oil into the intake or carburetor, then shut off the fuel supply to dry the engine. After this, it leaves a protective coating on internal parts, protecting against moisture and rust during long-term storage.
Battery Storage
A dead battery is a bad start to boating season. Instead of unplugging it, remove it and store it in a dry, temperature-stable area off concrete. Use a battery maintainer. A little attention now avoids having to replace an expensive battery later.
Preperate You Trailer
Boat trailers need maintenance, too. Before putting it away, you should check the tire pressure, inspect your tires for dry rot, and grease the wheel bearings if it has any. Test the lights and brake connections, especially if it’s been a while since the last haul. Consider elevating the trailer slightly to reduce pressure on the tires during long-term storage.
Cover Your Boat
Covering your boat is essential, but not all covers are created equal. Choose one that’s both water-resistant and breathable. This helps prevent mildew caused by trapped condensation. Avoid using tarps that can trap moisture and create pockets of standing water. For best results, place moisture absorbers inside the boat.
Document and Inventory Gear
Many boaters forget what's stored on board until it goes missing. Remove all electronics, safety equipment, fishing gear, and valuables. Take a few photos of the interior and create a quick checklist. Not only does this help you stay organized, but it also helps in the event of insurance claims.
Avoid These Common Storage Mistakes
Before you pack it in for the season, make sure you haven’t:
- Left untreated, fuel in the tank
- Skipped cleaning the boat thoroughly
- Neglected trailer maintenance
- Forgotten to fog the engine
- Left valuables or electronics inside
How to Know You’re Ready for Storage
If you’re seeing freezing temps, planning fewer outings, or know winter storms are on the horizon, it’s time to get your boat into storage. Don’t wait until frost hits. Proactive storage keeps your boat in better shape.
Why Cornerstone Storage Units is Your Best Choice
At Cornerstone Storage Units in Joplin, we make boat storage easy:
- Parking storage available
- 24/7 security monitoring and gated access
- Extra-wide lanes for trailer access
- Friendly local staff are ready to help
We’re located at 2380 S Central City Rd, just minutes from major highways, making drop-off and pickup simple.
Boat storage isn’t a one-step job. By remembering these often-forgotten tasks, you’ll keep your boat in top condition through the off-season. When spring arrives, you’ll be ready to hit the water without hassle. Need a reliable place to store your boat? Come visit Cornerstone Storage Units in Joplin—we’ve got the space, the security, and the service you need.
