There are a few different ways to cover a boat in water, and the best method for your situation will depend on the type of boat, how much money you have to spend, how quickly you need the job done, and how much protection you need.
In this blog post, we will discuss the three most common methods of how to cover a boat in the water: shrink wrap, tarps, and boat covers.
We will also talk about the pros and cons of each method so that you can choose the best option for your needs.
Why Covering a Boat in the Water is Required
When storing a boat for the winter, it is important to cover it so that snow and ice do not get inside the cabin or engine compartment.
If your engine gets covered with snow or ice, this can cause corrosion in certain parts of the system, such as the spark plugs.
In addition, if water gets into an area where it can freeze, it will expand and cause damage to the boat.
How to Cover a Boat in the Water?
Boating is a great activity that allows you to enjoy the beauty of nature, relax, and spend time with your friends or family. So it’s no wonder how many people nowadays choose boating as their favorite outdoor hobby.
If you already have a boat or plan to buy one soon, knowing how to cover it in the water is necessary.
There are different methods and techniques for covering a boat in each type of water situation, so it’s important to be aware of what these are and how to execute them properly.
This article will explore how to cover a boat in freshwater, saltwater, open ocean waters, and during the winter when the water is frozen.
This guide will help you find how to cover a boat in saltwater, cover a boat in open ocean waters, and cover a boat during the winter season.
And how to use alternative methods for covering your vessel if it’s not possible with traditional techniques.
By reading this article, we hope that you will better understand how to cover your boat in any water situation and ensure that it is well-protected against the elements.
How to Cover a Boat in Freshwater
There are several different ways to cover a boat in freshwater. In general, the main goal is to prevent the boat from taking on too much water and to keep it from being damaged by debris in the water.
One popular method for covering a boat in freshwater is to use a tarp or sheet.
This can be done by tying the corners of the tarp or sheet around trees on the land, securing it with ropes, and then pulling the boat onto the tarp or sheet.
Ensure that the boat is completely covered and there are no gaps or openings where water can seep in.
Another common method for covering a boat in freshwater is to use a boom. A boom is a large pole or pipe placed over the boat and extends out into the water.
The boom prevents debris from getting into the boat and helps keep it from taking on too much water.
If you’re looking for how to cover your boat in saltwater, one option is with a boom. Booms work well because they prevent debris from getting into the boat and help keep it from taking on too much water.
Another possibility would be using tarps or sheets tied around trees on the land, securing them with ropes.
How to Cover a Boat in Saltwater
Covering a boat in saltwater is a little different from freshwater.
The main goal is to prevent the boat from being corrupted by saltwater and keep it from taking on too much water.
One popular method for covering a boat in salt water is to use a boom. A boom is essentially a large pole or pipe that extends out into the water and over the boat.
The boom helps prevent debris from getting into your vessel and keeps it from taking on too much water.
To anchor your vessel in place while you’re away, you can use a sea anchor. A sea anchor is an inflatable device thrown overboard and anchors the boat by creating drag in the water.
Another option for covering your boat in saltwater is to use tarps or sheets tied around trees on the land, securing it with ropes. Ensure that there are no gaps or openings where water can seep in.
How to Cover a Boat in Open Ocean Waters?
There are several different ways to cover your boat in open ocean waters.
In general, the main goal is to prevent debris from getting into your vessel and keep it from being damaged by strong winds or waves that may come with rough seas conditions.
One popular method for covering a boat in open ocean waters is to use a boom. A boom is essentially a large pole or pipe that extends out into the water and over your vessel.
The boom helps prevent debris from getting into it and keeps it from taking on too much water when rough seas conditions are present.
Another option to cover your boat in open ocean waters would be using tarps or sheets tied around trees on the land, securing it with ropes. Ensure that there are no gaps or openings where water can seep in.
How to Cover a Boat During the Winter Season?
Covering a boat during the winter season is very similar to how you would do so during the summer season.
The main goal is to prevent the boat from being damaged by snow and ice and keep it from taking on too much water.
The best way to prevent snow and ice from getting inside your boat is by covering it in water with one of these three methods: shrink wrap, tarps, or covers.
We’ll discuss how each of these works and how much they cost so that you can decide what’s best for your needs.
Shrink Wrap
A shrink wrap is the best way to cover a boat if you need protection from snow and ice. It provides maximum protection by completely enclosing the hull’s outer surface in plastic, thereby preventing any water from getting inside at all.
You can buy this covering online or at hardware stores for around $100 per linear foot (LF).
The downside to using shrink wrap is how difficult it can be to put on a boat in the water and how expensive it is compared with other options like tarps or covers.
But if you want maximum protection, this type of covering may be worth the effort!
Pros: Provides excellent protection from snow and ice; easy to install
Cons: expensive; can be difficult to install on a boat in the water
Tarps
A tarp is a good way to cover a boat if you are looking for an affordable option to protect it from the elements.
There are two ways to use tarps when covering a boat: the first is to wrap it around the boat like you would a gift, and the second is to drape it over the boat.
Both methods have pros and cons: wrapping the tarp around the boat is cheaper and faster but provides less protection than draping it over.
While draping the tarp gives more protection but can be more expensive and time-consuming.
Pros: Affordable; easy to install
Cons: Provides less protection than other methods; can be difficult to install on a boat in the water
Boat Covers
A boat cover is the best way to protect your boat from the rain, sun, and snow. There are two types of boat covers that you can choose from custom-made covers that fit perfectly around your boat like a glove or universal fits, which come in sizes ranging from small to large.
Custom-made covers are the most expensive option, but they provide maximum protection because they fit snugly over every part of the hull and deck, so there’s no chance for leaks or water damage.
Universal fit covers are less expensive, but they don’t provide as much protection as custom-made covers.
Pros: Most protective; come in many sizes to fit most boats
Cons: Expensive; may not fit your boat perfectly
How Often Should You Cover Your Boat?
It depends on where you keep your boat and how you use it. For example, if you keep your boat in a covered slip and only take it out when the weather is good, all you need to do is put on a cover for protection from rain or snow.
If, however, how your boat sits outside for months at a time, how to protect it from harsh UV rays that can cause fading, and how to keep the rain off of it.
- A full winter cover should always be used if your boat will be sitting in the water for an extended period of time, especially if you live in a cold climate.
- Sun covers are perfect for boats that are taken out often or kept in a covered slip, as they provide a how of protection from the sun’s damaging UV rays and still allow for quick, easy access to your boat.
- If you keep your boat at home and how to use it every day, how have the luxury of storing it in a garage or covered shed then you can get away with only using a sun cover during the off-season months.
Conclusion
So, how do you cover a boat in the water? It depends on your needs and budget! If you need maximum protection from the elements, shrink wrap or custom-made boat covers are your best bet.
If you want something more affordable and easier to install, tarps will do just fine for most people. And finally, if the price isn’t an issue but how well it fits matters most to you – go with a universal fit boat cover!
