Boat Cover Care and Maintenance
Not only does your boat require proper care and maintenance, but so does the boat cover that protects it from the elements. There is a wide variety of boat cover care options available that can help you properly maintain and extend the life of your cover
Boat Cover Supports
Without a proper fit, a boat cover will sag or slide around, forming pockets that can collect water and debris. This can distort the fit, exposing your boat to rot and mildew. Boat cover supports shape the cover like a tent, allowing moisture to run off the cover.
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Boat Cover Support Strap Systems - Simple straps create an internal structure to shape your boat c
ov
er. An adjustable polyweb strap with non-marring hooks attaches to your boat forming a tight Y-ridge under your boat cover from bow to stern, preventing water from collecting.
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Boat Cover Support Poles - The most common boat cover supports, these are adjustable aluminum poles that fit against the deck, under the cover, creating a tent. These are available in a variety of styles, including rubber caps that slide into place, grommet and peg systems and snap end systems Some systems are available that provide venting, allowing heat and moisture to escape from beneath the cover. While most boats only require a single support pole, larger boats may require two or more supports.
- Bow Style Boat Cover Supports are less common with
modern boats, but they consist of a pair of sockets that mount to railings or the boat’s gunwales and accept either end a flexible wooden or plastic slat. The length of the slat causes it to bow upwards, supporting the cover. Think of a covered wagon
Boat Cover Tie-downs
Boat cover tie-downs keep your cover in place, an important feature if there is a chance the cover could be blown or pulled off while trailering or in storage, exposing your boat to moisture and debris. A properly tied-down cover will be less likely to sag, shrink or flap in the wind, which can shorten the life of your cover.
Typical boat cover tie-downs provide an adjustable strap and hooks that connect the cover to the boat trailer frame itself, or that loop under the frame and connect back to themselves with a buckle. The number of tie-downs needed may vary with boat size, with the average trailer using six.
Cleaning and Storage
Regular cleanings will help remove microscopic debris that can feed molds and mildew. To thoroughly clean your boat cover, first brush off the loose dirt and then hose it down. Put about ¼ cup of mild soap (never detergent or cleaning agents like bleach) in a gallon of water and use a mop or soft bristle brush to clean the cover. To remove stubborn stains, contact the manufacturer for their recommendations. Allow the cover to air dry thoroughly before folding and storing.
Caution: Never put your cover in a dryer. If you are going to store the cover for an extended period of time, a bag will help keep the cover clean and dry.
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