Preventing Mildew Growth Under Your Boat Cover
Mildew growth on your boat can be damaging, frustrating,
and hazardous to your health. While a boat cover provides the needed protection to preserve your boat's lifespan and resale value it can also promote mildew growth if used improperly. Mildew requires a certain temperature and moisture content in order to grow. Both of which can be created when you enclose your boat with a boat cover. When the exterior temperature rises, temperature underneath the cover does too. When that heat is combined with moisture in the air (from humidity or rainfall) it can create the perfect environment for mildew to grow in. So what can you do to prevent it? Follow these three tips:
1. Choose a Boat Cover Fabric that is Breathable
When searching for a boat cover, select a
boat cover fabric that will accommodate the climate in which you live in. If you reside in a hot or humid location, it is imperative that you choose a
boat cover that is made from a highly breathable fabric. Both Peformance Polyguard and Sunbrella received a 5/5 star rating for breathability and come highly recommended.
2. Install a Vented Support Pole Vented support poles release heat that can get trapped under the boat cover and release built-up moisture by providing air flow underneath the cover. A
vented support pole consists of two plates that twist and lock together on the top and bottom sides of the cover. The plates are designed to allow air to flow freely but will not let water, like rainfall inside. In order to install the vented support pole, you will need to cut a hole in your boat cover. To view the installation process, view our you tube video on
Assembling the Carver Support Poles.
3. Use a Boat Dryer or Dehumidifier Boat dyers are designed to reduce the humidity level in the air to reduce condensation (one of the key factors that can cause mildew growth). Electric and non-electric boat dryers are available in case your boat is stored in a spot that doesn't have electricity. Electric dryers, like the
DryWave Boat Dryer, raise the air temperature above the dew point in order to prevent mildew. Non-electric boat dryers, like the
Eva-Dry Dehumidifier, consist of a gel or crystals that collect and store moisture from the air.
If you find yourself in a situation where you
already have mildew damage on your boat cover, follow these steps:
1. Mix 1 cup of vinegar, 1 cup of borax powder, and 2 cups of warm water in a bucket or sprayer
2. Apply mixture to mildew spots and let it set for no more than 10 minutes
3. For troublesome spots, use a soft bristle brush and scrub
4. Rinse well and allow boat cover to thoroughly dry
Additional questions? Talk with one of our representatives via chat, e-mail, or toll free at 866.560.1330. We are always happy to help.
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*Excludes universal boat covers. Free shipping valid in the continental U.S. |