10+ Tips on storing your boat for the winter

After a long summer of boating fun, it’s time to store away your vessel for the colder months ahead. Unlike your car, a boat has many more exposed parts that can corrode over time, which in turn affects performance and costs hundreds of dollars to repair. The harsh winter weather can further worsen these effects. Thus, it is essential to take care of your boat once you have finished using it in the summer so that you are not treated to the rude surprise of expensive repairs in the spring. Follow this winter boat storage checklist to make sure your boat is properly winterized for storage.

STORING YOUR BOAT OUTSIDE OR INSIDE.

Winter boat storage can be tedious and expensive if you don’t have indoor storage, so keeping it on the water or outdoors is tempting. Unfortunately, it can also be problematic. If you store outside in your yard, a boat cover is a must to prevent damage from winter conditions (see all tips below). You’ll want to take extra care if this is the option you choose, a less controlled environment can often bring more challenges.

Leaving your boat in the water is not recommended. The boat is exposed to winter conditions, has a greater possibility of sinking if you aren’t monitoring often, and is vulnerable to theft.

Other options for storing your boat in winter are boat storage units, dry stack storage, and indoor storage. These range in price, availability, and convenience.

But, whatever you choose, you’ll want to do a few things before you store your boat for winter inside or outside.

HOW TO STORE A BOAT FOR WINTER

1. Run your boat once more. Pay attention to any issues that may need repair or replacement over the winter, especially with regards to the engine. Look for cracks in the hull, which will worsen if left unrepaired.
2. Drain your boat. Remove the boat from the water and drain the bilge, water tanks, head, pipes and seacocks. Raise the bow to accelerate drainage if possible. If there is an electronic water heater, isolate it by removing the in and out lines and connecting the latter two together. Spray the bilge with a moisture-displacing lubricant. Add antifreeze into the bilge and water tanks to prevent freezing. (Do not drain the engine water intake until you winterize the engine.)
3. Clean your boat. Thoroughly scrub the entirety of the boat with soap and water, from the hull to the interior. Remove any plant life and barnacles that have attached to the hull. Open any lockers, drawers, refrigerators and freezers and clean as well. Once the boat is scrubbed, leave enough time so that the boat is completely dry. Repair any blistering if you have a fiberglass boat. Afterwards, apply a coat of wax onto both the hull and the superstructure and polish evenly.
4. Winterize the engine. Flush the engine (including the coolant system) with freshwater to remove salt, dirt and corrosion. Refill the coolant system with antifreeze. After briefly warming up the engine to loosen impurities, replace the oil and all filters while looking for any milky aspect to the old oil, since this indicates water intrusion. Apply fogging oil into the carburetor and spark plug holes. Remove and store away drive belts to avoid snapping due to tension. Finally, top off your engine with a full tank of gas mixed with stabilizer. Run the engine for about 15 minutes to make sure the additives reach fuel lines. (Be especially careful if your engine uses E-10 fuel, since it absorbs moisture 10 times more than typical gasoline.)
5. Lubricate moving parts. Grease the steering system and control mechanisms. Lightly apply moisture-displacing lubricant on all moving metal parts such as hinges, latches and linkages. Detach the propeller, inspect for fishing line and seal damage, lubricate, and return to its position.
6. Remove and charge the battery. Take out the battery and completely charge it. Clean the battery terminals and lightly coat them with grease. Do the same for the battery cable ends. Store the battery in a warm, dry place, noting that you will not place it back into the boat until the spring.
7. Remove sensitive materials. Anything and everything that does not form part of the vessel should be removed and stored away, including life jackets, fire extinguishers and flares. If the interior of the boat is fitted with organic materials such as fabric and leather, remove these as well to prevent mildew deposits. Also remove all electronics, since these are easily damaged with extreme cold, and wrap exposed cable ends with electric tape. Store electronics in a warm, dry place as with the battery.
8. Seal exhaust ports. If your boat employs exhaust ports, seal them with duct tape to prevent pests from entering and clogging these components.
9. Cover and store your boat. Protect your boat with a cover that can withstand even the most brutal weather episodes. For harsher environments, consider shrink-wrapping your boat to provide additional protection. Remove snow buildup on a regular basis. If possible, store your boat under a canopy or in a garage. Use a dehumidifier if you will store the boat indoors. Mount your boat on supports with the bow tilted slightly upwards to encourage drainage. Avoid placing the boat on a trailer, since its tires and bearings can wear down over time.
10. Check every few weeks. Repair any problem areas or components over the winter. Uncover and inspect your boat for new problems that might arise during storage. Check the battery to see if it is still charged. Remove any water that might have pooled in lower areas of the boat.
11. Change the boat oil: Water that has gotten into the oil can corrode the engine. By changing the boat oil before storing you can avoid any long-term damage while stored.
12. Freshen up to the Coolant System: Like the oil, draining and refreshing the coolant system with anti-freeze can prevent freezing and corrosion of the engine.
13. Protect with Fogging Oil: This pro tip will go further to protect your engine during the winter months. Turn over your engine without starting it and spray the fogging oil where your manual instructs.
14. Loosen or remove driving belts: This is a simple step that can save you stress and money. Remove or loosen drive belts before winter boat storage to prevent them from cracking under the stress.
15. Grease the steering: Another preventative measure to get your boat ready for when you take it back out. Grease the steering and control mechanisms well so everything runs smoothly when it’s time to steer again.
16. Maintain the battery: Prevention is the name of the game. Disconnecting the battery and charging it every once in a while throughout the winter can prevent the battery from draining and dying over the winter.
17. Fill that tank: This may seem counterintuitive, but condensation can build up in an empty tank causing corrosion and even worse damage if it freezes. Add some gas and fuel stabilizer to make sure your tank is good to go during winter boat storage.
18. Pay attention to the interior: Organic materials like canvas, leather, or other fabrics should be removed to avoid mold and mildew. And any electronics that could freeze should be removed to avoid damage.
19. Wax on, Wax off: This step is especially important for storing your boat outside during the winter. Cleaning your boat inside and out and finishing with wax will help prevent rust on your boat’s body.
20. Always use a cover: Finally, covering your boat will protect from elements like dirt, dust, and moisture.

As always, be sure to read the owner’s manual to learn about any particular needs your boat might have. If you are unsure about implementing these tips, don’t hesitate talk to us. With these precautions, you will be able to protect your boat for the long winter and prepare it for the gorgeous weather that awaits you and your boat afterward.

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Winter Boat Storage Tips

Boat owners have to store their vessels during the winter season, and it is important that you prepare for this in advance so that you can protect your boat and keep it safe. Water will freeze in low temperatures, and even if it doesn’t turn into solid ice, very cold water can still damage your boat, so storing it out of the water is a must. This will prevent ice or weather damage to the hull, and regardless of whether you choose to store your boat inside or outside, the following tips will help you store your vessel properly:

Drain Your Boat

Once you remove your boat from the water, you need to drain the water tanks, pipes, heads, bilge, and seacocks. If possible, raise the bow to accelerate the drainage process. If you have an electric water heater, you will have to isolate it, which you can do by removing the in and out lines and connecting them together. It’s recommended that you spray the bilge with a moisture-displacing lubricant and that you add antifreeze into the bilge and water tanks, as this will help prevent freezing. Always winterize the engine before you drain the engine water intake.

Clean Your Boat

A thorough clean is a must before you place your boat in storage, so scrub the entire vessel with soap and water. This includes the exterior and interior. Make sure you get rid of any plants and open every drawer, locker, refrigerator, and freezer to remove any contents that may be present. Make sure the boat is completely dry before placing it in storage.

Winterize Your Engine

Use fresh water to flush your engine, as this will remove salt, dirt and corrosion. Refill the coolant system with antifreeze and replace the oil and all filters after you warm up your engine just briefly to loosen any impurities. You should also remove drive belts to avoid snapping as a result of tension and must top off your engine with a full tank of gas mixed with a stabilizer.

Lubricate the Moving Parts

Grease your steering system and control mechanisms and apply moisture-displacing lubricant on all of the moving metal parts like the hinges, latches and linkages. Do this lightly and detach the propeller to inspect for fishing line and seal damage, then lubricate and return to its position.

Remove the Battery and Charge it

You must take out the battery to completely charge it. Clean its terminals and coat them with grease and repeat this step for the battery cable ends. Store your battery in a warm, dry place until the spring, when you can place it back into your boat.

If you’d like more information regarding the proper ways to store your boat storage, We can help you store your boat and will keep it safe until the spring when you can use your boat once again. Our facility is clean and secure, so if you want peace of mind, contact us today.

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Boatyard Rules & Practices

 

1. Stones Boatyard is a “do-it-yourself” boatyard and welcomes all commercial and recreational boaters. Vessel Owners may perform their own work and may also hire professional Contractors to work on their Vessels. The Boatyard also manages a listing of approved on-site tenant and outside Contractors. Vessel Owners and Contractors, however, must follow the Boatyard Rules and Practices. It is the Vessel Owner’s and/or Contractor’s responsibility to ensure such Boatyard Rules and Practices are being followed.
2. Vessel Owners must enter into and sign a Dry Storage and Travelift Agreement with the Company prior to the provision of any services to the Vessel Owner by the Company. Failure to sign a Dry Storage and Travelift Agreement shall not relieve the Vessel Owner from the obligations set out in the Dry Storage and Travelift Agreement.
3. Contractors must enter into and sign a Contractor Agreement with the Company prior to providing any services to the Vessel Owner or otherwise performing work in the Boatyard and/or in the Marina. Failure to sign a Dry Storage and Travelift Agreement shall not relieve the Contractor from the obligations set out in the Dry Storage and Travelift Agreement.
4. Vessel owners and contractors agrees that they have received, read and understood the boatyard rules and practices and that following these rules and practices is mandatoryas part of their agreement with the company.
5. Contractors must be approved by the Company pursuant to the requirements of the Contractor Agreement prior to performing any work whatsoever in the Boatyard and/or Marina and must provide evidence of:
   1. A valid business license
   2. WorksafeBC coverage
   3. Third party liability insurance coverage of $1,000,000 or more.
6. The Vessel Owner agrees to promptly advise the Company of changes of address, phone number or other particulars as provided in the Dry Storage and Travelift Agreement or in changes to the Vessel being stored or the ownership of the Vessel.
7. The Contractor agrees to promptly advise the Company of changes of address, phone number or other particulars as provided in the Contractor Agreement.

Travelift

1. The Vessel Owner is responsible for the placement of Travelift lifting straps on the Vessel and must inform the Travelift crew of any underwater mechanisms or obstructions before setting the straps. The Vessel Owner is responsible for any damage to the Vessel or underwater mechanisms during the Travelift operation.
2. Travelift and Layday charges are based on the Vessel’s overall length including outgear fastened to the Vessel.
3. The Vessel Owner is normally required to be present to oversee any Travelift operation. The Company will assess an additional charge in the case that an absentee Vessel Owner authorizes the Company to haul or launch the Vessel in his/her absence. It is expressly agreed that the Vessel Owner shall indemnify and save harmless the Company from and against all liabilities, costs, claims, damages, actions, and expenses of any kind whatsoever in respect of such Travelift operation.
4. No motor vehicle shall be left on the approach ways for the Travelift or interfere with operations of this and other equipment operated by the Company in the Boatyard. Vehicles in violation may be towed at the vehicle owner’s expense.
5. The Vessel Owner is responsible for opening and closing all seacocks and other underwater thruhulls.
6. The Vessel Owner is responsible for receiving Canada Customs and Revenue Service clearance prior to haulout.

Payments

1. The Vessel Owner agrees to pay all charges invoiced when an invoice is rendered. Any invoice not paid when rendered shall accrue interest at the rate of 24% per annum, or 2% per month.
2. Unless otherwise stipulated in the Dry Storage and Travelift Agreement between the Vessel owner and the Company, or the Contractor Agreement between the Contractor and the Company, all charges invoiced on the Vessel by the Company are to be paid in full prior to launch of the Vessel or prior to the Vessel otherwise leaving the Boatyard. The Vessel Owner agrees that the Company shall have the right to retain possession of the Vessel until all sums payable to it by the Vessel Owner and/or the Contractor have been paid in full and that if such sums payable are not duly paid by the end of the storage Term that the Company may exercise its remedies as accorded to it by law.
3. Upon termination of the Dry Storage and Travelift Agreement, the Vessel Owner shall remove the Vessel within the time period specified by the Company and shall pay before such removal all sums payable to the Company by the Vessel Owner. If the Vessel Owner fails to remove the Vessel, the Company may move the Vessel to another location with all expenses and the risk of loss or damage to the account of the Vessel Owner.

Boatyard Crew

1. Pressure washing shall be performed only by Boatyard staff with Boatyard equipment and shall be performed only in the area designated for such work. Unless expressly waived by the Company, all Vessels to which Repairs shall be performed below the waterline shall require pressure washing. Outside pressure washers are not permitted in the Boatyard without Company authorization.
2. Only Boatyard crew shall block and support the Vessel. Vessel Owners are not permitted to shift or otherwise tamper with boatstands. Only boatyard crew may shift boatstands or reblock the Vessel. Tying tarps, ladders or other items to boatstands is prohibited.

Conduct and Prohibitions

1. The raising of sails or removal of standing rigging is strictly prohibited while the Vessel is stored in the Boatyard. Vessel Owners are prohibited from going aloft while the Vessel is in the Boatyard. Vessel Owners must ensure that sails, including roller-furling sails, are properly secured to prevent them from opening and/or unfurling while the Vessel is stored in the Boatyard.
2. All persons using any of the Boatyard facilities shall conduct themselves so as not to jeopardize the safety or disturb the enjoyment of other persons in the Boatyard or as otherwise regulated by Municipal bylaw.
3. No person that is not authorized Boatyard crew shall operate or attempt to operate any of the Boatyard’s equipment.
4. Vessel Owners requiring electrical service must obtain permission from the Company prior to plugging in. All electrical service connections between the Boatyard’s electrical outlets and the Vessel and all electrical equipment aboard the Vessel must conform to governmental code requirements.
5. Repairs of any type on vehicles other than the Vessel as described in the Dry Storage and Travelift Agreement is strictly prohibited.
6. Construction or erection of shelters or sheds of any type are strictly prohibited.
7. Sandblasting of any type is expressly prohibited in the Boatyard.
8. No automobiles, machinery, dinghies or non-marine related items or obstructions are to be stored in the Vessel Owner’s site or in the Boatyard except where permitted by the Company.
9. Vessel Owners shall not permit any reflection type electric heater, oil burner, or flame type heater to be operated unless a person is always in attendance.
10. All Vessels in the Boatyard shall be clearly marked with its name and registration number as required by law.

Tools and Equipment

1. The Boatyard does not loan or supply tools, equipment or scaffolding. Rental of such or other items may be arranged through the Boatyard office. As this is a “do-it-yourself” yard, Vessel Owners are permitted to use their own tools, equipment, tarps, drop cloths, ground sheets and ladders and other personal equipment in the course of Repairs. Notwithstanding this, Vessel Owners are not permitted to bring the following specific items into the Boatyard, which are rented for profit by the Company, without the express permission of the Company: fork-lift, crane, man-lift (including bucket or scissor lift), pressure washer, protective boat shelter, scaffolding, working vehicles including pick-up or other trucks with cranes or lift mechanisms, items or machinery that the Company, at its sole discretion, shall prohibit
2. Vessel Owners shall not “borrow” hoses, planks, electric cords, wood, steel, ladders, tools, supplies, stores other items from another Vessel Owner’s area or from other areas in the Boatyard. Vessel Owners tampering with yard equipment, stores or materials will be subject to covering replacement cost, charges or prosecution by the Company.
3. Vessel Owners shall not rent tools to other Vessel Owners in the Boatyard without the express permission of the Company.
4. Vessel Owners are responsible for the care, cleaning and repair of rental tools and equipment including portable boat shelters.

Environmental Practices

1. Stones Boatyard is an environmentally minded and sensitive workplace and complies with “Best Management Practices” for boatyards as published and enforced by Environment Canada under the Pollution Prevention provision of the Fisheries Act: “…no person shall deposit or permit the deposit of a deleterious substance of any type in water frequented by fish or in any place under any conditions where the deleterious substance may enter such water” ss.36(3) “…and upon conviction in a court of law, every person who contravenes this provision is guilty of a criminal offence…Maximum penalties are a fine up to $1,000,000 or up to 3 years in prison, or both…” ss. 40(2)
2. Stones Boatyard has implemented practices to contain wastes generated during hull preparation that are harmful to aquatic organisms. However, Vessel Owners and Contractors are also responsible to educate themselves and to follow practices to help the measures implemented by the Boatyard ensure the protection of water quality. Environment Canada’s “Baby Your Bottom!” information brochure for boaters is available at the marina office.
3. Living in, charter, rental or sale of Vessels (or any other products or services) or signs in connection therewith are prohibited in the Boatyard unless authorized by the Company. No toilets, sinks or petroleum products shall be discharged while the Vessel is in the Boatyard.
4. Vessel Owners are required to keep their site clean. Ground sheets are mandatory for all work being performed which results in falling debris, paint scrapings, fibreglass or sanding residues. Filter cloths must also be used where ground sheets are not sufficient to retain such debris, paint scrapings, fibreglass or sanding residues. Rental of such or other items may be arranged through the Boatyard office.
5. Spray painting, sanding and/or hull peeling is permitted in the Boatyard provided that the Vessel Owner provides a contained and controlled environment. Shrouding, tarping and ground-sheeting of the Vessel for these activities is mandatory.
6. Vessel Owners are required to clean their sites daily and are responsible for the proper disposal of waste materials and fluids. Do not dump paint, solvents or any toxic materials in the wash down system. This includes bilge water. Please ask the Boatyard crew for assistance on the disposal of such materials. All accidental spills must be reported immediately. Large projects and major waste, including fuel and oil tanks, gas and diesel fuel and hydraulic fluids, must be hauled away by the Vessel Owner. The Vessel Owner’s site must be clean upon decommissioning. The cost of clean-up and environmental damage caused by the Vessel Owner in the Boatyard or to the adjacent watercourse is the sole responsibility of the Vessel Owner.
7. Vessel Owners are not permitted to transfer fuel from the Vessel without the authorization of the Company.
8. The storage of inflammable liquids, propane, oily rags and any other substance subject to spontaneous combustion or easily combustible is absolutely prohibited in the Boatyard unless they are stored in an approved storage location. Barbequing or open fires in any location of the Boatyard, including on the Vessel, is strictly prohibited. No litter or debris shall be deposited or left in the Boatyard, except that refuse may be placed in the containers provided for that purpose.
9. All dogs shall be on leash and all pets shall be controlled at all times in the Boatyard by the person bringing the pets on the premises, who shall also clean up any animal dirt deposited on the Boatyard premises.

Our water treatment plant

Indemnity, Safety and Security

1. All persons using any of the Boatyard facilities or coming onto the Boatyard premises do so at their own risk and the Vessel Owner is responsible for the conduct of his/her guests, servants, agents or invitees, including Contractors, at or about the Boatyard and the Vessel Owner accepts responsibility to inform such persons that all such persons using any of the Boatyard facilities do so at their own risk and that extreme caution and attention should be used at all times and that the Company shall not be responsible for any injury or damage sustained by such person or persons. The Vessel Owner shall indemnify and save harmless the Company from and against all liabilities, costs, claims, damages, actions, and expenses of any kind whatsoever which the Company may sustain, incur or suffer by reason of act or omission of the Vessel Owner, his/her servants, agents or guests about the Boatyard or the occupancy and use thereof by them.
2. The Company shall not be responsible for the security of any Vessel from theft or other loss and shall not be liable for the loss by theft or otherwise of any articles left in any automobile or Vessel or in any facility of or in the Boatyard or for damages caused by the Vessel to other Vessels or the Boatyard.
3. Vessel Owners must ensure that all children in or about the Boatyard, including the Boatyard docks, be accompanied by an adult who shall be solely responsible for their safety and conduct. All children on the Boatyard docks shall wear life jackets.
4. The Vessel Owner is responsible for the integrity and safety of the blocking and bracing of his/her Vessel. However, only Boatyard crew may shift or move or otherwise change the position of boatstands and only Boatyard crew may re-block boats. Should the Vessel Owner question the integrity and safely of the blocking and the bracing of his/her Vessel, it is the responsibility of the Vessel Owner to promptly notify Boatyard crew.
5. The Vessel Owner hereby acknowledges receiving the key for the Boatyard gate so as to permit access to the Boatyard after hours. The Vessel Owner agrees, so as not to jeopardize Boatyard security, not to allow access to this key to any other person for any reason whatsoever who is not his/her guest, servant, agent or invitee at or about the Boatyard.
6. The Vessel Owner will be responsible for his/her own insurance on the Vessel and the contents and shall carry reasonable third party liability coverage.
7. The Vessel Owner is required to check his/her Vessel regularly, especially after or in anticipation of storms, heavy winds, rain or snow, etc. Any Vessel which, in the opinion of the Company, is in danger of falling or is a hazard to other Vessels or premises may be removed forthwith with all expenses and risk of loss or damage for the account of the Vessel Owner, or should the Company be required to render salvage services to any Vessel, the cost thereof shall be for the account of the Vessel Owner. Notwithstanding, the Company is under no obligation to remove any such Vessel.
8. The Vessel Owner is fully responsible for the safety, upkeep and maintenance of their Vessel at all times and in particular in anticipation of, during or following storms, heavy winds, rain or snow, etc. The Company will not be responsible to make inspections, repairs or service the Vessel.
9. There are industrial facilities within the proximity of the Boatyard. The Company will not assume any responsibility for any damage or annoyance which may present itself as a result of airborne pollutants originating outside the Boatyard.
10. Smoking is prohibited in any building in the Boatyard.
11. The Boatyard is a commercial workplace. Skateboarding, rollerblading, sports or playful activities of any kind are not permitted.

Refusal and Termination

1. The Company reserves the right to refuse, at is sole discretion, any Dry Storage and Travelift Agreement application or to refuse, at its sole discretion, to continue to permit storage of a Vessel in the Boatyard for any reason whatsoever including during or within the Term most recently contracted in such an Agreement.  Notwithstanding, the Company is under no obligation to extend the Term of storage to any Vessel beyond the Term as agreed to therein such an Agreement.
2. The Vessel Owner shall not purport to assign or sub-lease the license granted pursuant to the Dry Storage and Travelift Agreement without obtaining the prior written consent of the Company. The Company reserves the right to terminate the Agreement if such written consent is not obtained.
3. Non-compliance with the terms of the Dry Storage and Travelift Agreement or the Contractor Agreement or the directions or instructions issued by the Company and its servants or agents are a breach of such Agreement, as the case may be, and as such permits the Company to terminate that Agreement.
4. No portion of Boatyard charges will be refunded where breach of the Dry Storage and Travelift Agreement has occurred. The Vessel Owner shall be liable for a per diem rate based upon the then per diem layday charge in the event the Vessel Owner’s Vessel remains in the Boatyard after expiration of that Agreement without the Vessel Owner having entered into a new Dry Storage and Travelift Agreement.
5. All notices to be given in accordance with these Rules and Regulations may be given at the address provided by the Vessel Owner or such other address as he/she further advises. Any notice will be deemed to have been received by personal service on the Vessel Owner, personal delivery at such address or two business days after the date of mailing by ordinary post to such address.

Definitions and Captions

1. The words, phrases and expressions in these Boatyard Rules and Practices are used with the meanings defined in the “Dry Storage and Travelift Agreement” and the “Contractor Agreement” as the case applies and, furthermore, “Vessel Owner” shall be read as to also include the “Contractor” as the case applies and “Boatyard” shall be read to also include the “Marina” as the case applies.
2. The captions appearing in these Boatyard Rule and Practices have been inserted as a matter of convenience and for reference only and in no way define, limit, or enlarge the scope or meaning of these Boatyard Rules and Practices or of any provision thereof.

Video with our boatyard technician Sarah-Anne!

Check out this video talking to our own Sarah-Anne and an interview with Shari MacPherson! We are so very proud of her and as so many of our boatyard clients will attest to, Sarah-Anne is always a delight to be around and such a diligent worker!

Sarah-Anne works as one of our top boatyard technicians, forklift operators and general labourers. She is a highly experienced with anti-fouling and bottom painting of all kinds of boats, both sail and power and is accomplished in zinc changes and a multitude of other general repairs. As a company, we are extremely proud to have been involved with the Bladerunner program and to have Sarah on board with us for all of these years and we look forward to having her grow with us!

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Repairs and Maintenance for Inflatable Boats

The popularity of and demand for inflatable boats has drastically increased over the past few years. New methods of production, stronger materials, and updated models are the main reasons for the popularity of inflatable boats.

Since the use of these boats has increased, it is necessary to know about the repair and maintenance for the same. Here are 10 common questions people ask while considering the repair and maintenance of inflatable boats.

#1 What is the life of an inflatable boat?

On average, the life expectancy of an inflatable boat is 10-15 years. The approximate lifespan can extend or shorten depending on several factors and the use of the inflatable boat. The age of the boat, the material used, it is stored, the amount of UV exposure, method of manufacture such as using a hand-glued machine vs machine-welded seams, are some of the factors responsible in determining the lifespan of the boat.

In ordinary cases, boats made from Hypalon last longer than those made from PVC. However, inflatable boats are the most easily damaged due to lack of maintenance and proper care.

#2 How to clean an inflatable boat?

It is necessary to clean an inflatable boat after each use. If it is not cleaned, dust and grime tend to settle on the surface of fabric or rubber, which makes the boat look filthy. It also starts the process of boat decay. Rinsing the boat after every use is the most important part of cleaning an inflatable boat. The inside of the boat should be rinsed using freshwater.

# 3 How to store an inflatable boat?

For storage, your inflatable boat should be kept out of the water to maintain its good condition. Keeping it on the water will expose it to algae, bacteria and other temperature changes, which will cause degradation.

Inflatable boats can be conveniently stored in a small space. However, before storing, the boat should be thoroughly cleaned. The spot where the boat is to be stored should be away from pests and rodents. The boat should be wrapped in extra layers of plastic cover to keep it safe.

The boat is then to be rolled up and kept in a place where it will remain unaffected by extreme changes in the climate as excessive heat and humidity have a negative impact on the adhesives on the boat.

#4 How to identify the fabric of your RIB or inflatable boat?

To repair an inflatable boat, it is first necessary to know the type of material it is made of, so as to use appropriate tools and measures. In ordinary cases, to manufacture the inflatable collars and tubes of boats, three main types of materials are used: Hypalon, Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and Polyurethane (PU).

• Hypalon is a synthetic rubber coating on the fabric. It can last for up to 20 years and its joints are glued by overlapping of layers which are glued to each other. Hypalon boats are dark grey and black.
• PVC is a plastic coating which is not flexible and cracks over time. It is the cheapest material for production and can be welded or glued. Boats made out of this are glossy in colour.
• PU is a relatively new material and has superior airtightness and durability, as compared to Hypalon and PVC. It is glossy in colour.

#5 How to repair an inflatable boat?

The environment in which the boat is going to be repaired has to have a relative humidity less than 60%, the temperature should be between 18°C and 25°C and the area should be dry and well ventilated. There should be no open flame in the area.

For Hypalon fabric boats, a suitable adhesive should be used. The purpose of repair requires a lot of materials and tools. Some of them are adhesive glue, fabric patch, piece of polythene, sandpaper, solvent/primer or acetone, glue brush, acetone.

The basic steps for repairing an inflatable boat are as follows:

• Identify the fabric with which the inflatable boat is made. The type of fabric determines what apparatus is to be used for repairing the boat.
• Create an ideal environment in which to work and repair.
• Repair of tubes and collars of the inflatable boat involves tears up to 55mm long. Small tears can be repaired with a single fabric patch, but the larger patches need fixing both from the inside and the outside of the tube.
• Gather all the materials required beforehand.
• Locate the tear in the tube. If unsure, apply soap water on the surface and look for bubbles arising.
• Cut a fabric patch with round corners including the overlap. For Hypalon and PU patches, abrade the back to achieve a key for the application of adhesives.
• Clean the back of the patch with a solvent and wait till it evaporates. Mask the area that needs to be repaired to avoid excess application of adhesive.
• Use a 2-part adhesive and apply it on the back of the patches in a thin coat. Wait for it to dry for 20 minutes and apply the second coat.
• Place a small piece of polythene over the glued area so the patch can be rolled and placed inside the tear.
• Unroll the patch and let the surfaces stick.
• Smoothen the patch to ensure there are no air bubbles.
• Remove the masking tape along with the excess adhesive.
• Place a heavyweight on the repair for 24 hours, to make sure the repair has been successful before relaunching the boat.

#6 How to find a leak in a Rigid Inflatable Boat?

The process for inspecting an inflatable boat to find a leak is as follows:

• To locate the leak, you have to inflate the collar or tubes of the boat to the maximum so that it sounds like a drum when tapped on with the flat of your hand.
• Inspect all areas of the inflatable collar or tube for signs of wear and tear.
• Mix mild Ph washing liquid and warm water in equal parts in a spray bottle.
• Spray the solution on one side of the tubes and look for any bubbles forming.
• Mark all the areas where bubbles are evident with a marker.
• Once the entire area of the boat is covered, rinse the surface thoroughly with water and allow it to dry completely.

Further repairs can be carried out on every part where the leak is found, as mentioned above.

#7 How to fit a replacement screw-in type inflatable boat?

RIBs and many other inflatable boats are fitted with the screw-in type of valves. It is necessary to know about the anatomy of the valves in order to fix them. The next process is:

• Once the identification of the male and the female section is done, deflate the tube on a flat surface.
• Before unscrewing the male section of the valve, make sure the new one is handy.
• Lay the tube flat and put downward pressure on the valve.
• Hold the female valve through the tube to prevent it from moving inside the tube when the male section is unscrewed.
• Unscrew the male section and replace it with the new male section.
• Ensure that it is in a closed position and re-inflate the test tube to check for leaks and repairs.

#8 How to fix or glue inflatable PVC fabric patches and accessories to Hypalon fabric RIB collars and tubes (and vice versa)?

PVC adhesive and Hypalon fabric, or vice versa, are not compatible but they can be bonded. The first step is to prepare the fabric patch.

For PVC patch –

Clean the side of the fabric or accessory that is to be glued, with solvent or acetone.

• Glue PVC patch to Hypalon tube – After cleaning the patch, apply one coat of adhesive to the side that is to be glued. Allow it to dry and then simply fix it to the Hypalon collar.

For Hypalon patch –

Thoroughly abrade the back of the patch and clean it with a solvent.

• Glue Hypalon patch to PVC tube – After abrading and cleaning the patch with solvent as told in step one, apply a coat of Hypalon adhesive to the back of the patch. Allow it to try and then fix it to the PVC collar.

#9 How to replace an inflatable boat valve?

As required during the repair of inflatable boats, the environment where the valve is to be replaced must be stress-free, relative humidity less than 60%, temperature between 18°C and 25°C. The area should also be ventilated.

The procedure then is as follows:

• Deflate the tube and remove the existing valve.
• Cut the fabric around it and remove the entire valve assembly.
• Fit the new valve to the assembly with valve-doubler.
• Lay the assembled valve over the tube and mark the area.
• Mask the area with removable masking tape to avoid over-applying of the adhesive.
• Abrade the back of the doubler and achieve a key for adhesive (only for Hypalon). Over abrasion must be avoided as it can damage the fabric. PVC does not have to be abraded.
• Clean the back of the patch with solvent and wait for it to evaporate.
• Apply adhesive using a brush, in a thin coat and leave it to dry for 20 minutes. Apply the patch and the doubler to the cut-out. Smooth down the fabric area to make sure there are no bubbles.
• Remove the masking tape along with the excess of solvent and adhesive. Put a weighted object on top of this for 24 hours.

Endnote

That concludes our list of the 9 most common questions people ask when it comes to inflatable boats. For the do-it-yourselfers out there, a word of caution. Repairing and maintaining an inflatable boat is necessary to keep it functioning properly and smoothly.

What are your thoughts about repairing and maintaining inflatable boats? Any questions you would like to ask? Please contact us.

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Inflatable dinghy and Rib Repairs

Inflatable dinghy repairs is more than sticking on a patch. Our trained and experienced technicians repair inflatables with the highest quality materials to ensure the reliability and appearance of the inflatable is the best it can be.

From cleaning and annual servicing to complete refurbishment we have extensive experience of working on inflatables.

Typical services we provide include:

• Tube repairs such as – patching, delamination, parts replacement, lifelines, etc.
• Tube refurbishing and replacement
• Cleaning
• Valve servicing
• Installation of Seawise and Weaver davit pads
• Installation of after-market fish rod holders, downriggers, rubber handles, etc.
• Installation of new transoms in foldable hypalon boats
• Fitting of underside overlay protection
• Supply & installation of electronics (GPS, radar, chartplotters)
• Install of lights, batteries, rewiring, etc.
• Emergency onsite assessment

You can also order parts and accessories for all makes of inflatable RIB’s and dinghies through us.

Nanaimo inflatables also partners with Pacific Wave to sell NEW inflatable dinghies

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Boat Painting by Experienced Marine Painters

Why paint your boat’s bottom yourself when you can get someone else to do it for you and remove all that hassle and stress! At Nanaimo Yacht Services @ Stones Boatyard, we offer an excellent rate, skill and speed of service for boat painting in a paved yard in picturesque Nanaimo! We are professional, experienced marina painters.

Not sure which paint to use? Not a problem! Once you have hauled out your boat, our experts will be able to determine what the existing paint is, and if a different paint would better suit your needs. We are experienced in all types of marine paint including polyurethane and antifouling paints.

As this is one of our most popular services, it is important that you book early! If  you book your bottom paint and zinc change at the same time as your haulout, we will be able to better ensure that the work is completed in a timely fashion. We are, unfortunately, not able to estimate a job until we have seen the condition of the bottom of the vessel and size of the boat.

You will be charged per man hour spent on the boat, as well as any materials used in the process for the preparing, and painting of the boat. See our rates page for more information.

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How To Clean Your Inflatable Boat

Like any other boat, inflatable boats need proper care and maintenance in order to function at their best and last a long time. When left unmaintained inflatable boats may only last for 2 to 3 years– a significant loss on your investment. But with regular cleaning you can expect to enjoy that boat for 20 or even 30 long years, and you could even trade or resell it.

The question now is, how does one properly clean an inflatable boat?

1. Choosing the Right Cleaning Products

The first and probably most important step to properly cleaning an inflatable boat is to choose the right cleaning products. Many inflatable boat owners make the costly mistake of choosing the wrong cleaners and end up damaging their boats instead.

While inflatable boats may be made of durable PVC or Hypalon, they are still susceptible to damage when exposed to harsh chemicals. They are not like fibreglass or aluminium boats and should therefore not be exposed to the same types of boat cleaners. Products you should never use to clean inflatable boats include solvents, toluene, acetone, bleach, ammonia, highly alkaline cleaners (anything with a pH greater than 11.5), abrasive scrub pads, and steel wool. These products can damage and discolour the fabric and attack the adhesives of your inflatable boat.

While you could simply use soaps or detergent, these can leave a sticky residue on the boat surface that attracts and holds dirt. Soap scum can also serve as food for mould and mildew, and you’ll have to figure out how to clean mould off your inflatable boat.

To properly clean your inflatables it’s best to use inflatable boat cleaners. These are made specifically for cleaning these boats and can effectively remove dirt, grime and stains without damaging the surface. Some of these cleaners can also protect boat surfaces from the elements, keeping them in the best condition.

2. Cleaning Your Inflatable Boat

Once you’ve got the right cleaning products and tools, cleaning your PVC boat becomes quite simple. Depending on the product you choose, you’ll probably need just a couple of clean cloths and some water, if the cleaner requires it. You may also need a soft brush for scrubbing, but it really depends on the cleaner you choose, so make sure you read the usage instructions carefully. Most cleaners only require you to apply the cleaner on the surface of the inflatable boat for a few minutes, and then wipe it off with a clean cloth.

When using any boat cleaner don’t forget to wear rubber gloves to protect your hands, and be sure to reach every nook and cranny with the cleaner and cloth. It would be good to use an all-in-one cleaner like Star Brite, as it not only cleans your boat but also leaves a tough coating that protects against salt and UV exposure.

A smart way to go about cleaning your inflatable boat would be to start from the boat floor and work in sections, moving outward while applying the boat cleaner. This would also make it easy for you to check for any damaged areas, and see where you’ll need to make some repairs. Don’t forget to flip the boat and apply the cleaner on the underside as well, as this area is most exposed to the water.

Once done, you should end up with a nice, glossy-looking inflatable boat. Take care when using your newly-cleaned boat as the surface may still be slippery due to the cleaner.

Cleaning your inflatable boat is something you should do regularly especially if you use your boat often. You should also make sure to clean your boat before and after storage. If you’ve just bought a used inflatable boat for sale, or even a brand new one like a Zodiac inflatable boat, it would be wise to clean these as well. You can never be too sure of where the boat has been or what hidden dirt or damage it may have; and with brand new boats there may be some lubricants left from the manufacturing process that you need to clean off before use.

If you’re concerned about cleaning your inflatable then come and talk to us. We’re happy to give advice or you can leave your inflatable with us and we can do the clean for you.

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