Boats are exposed to the elements in and out of the water, and the right kind of care will ensure nothing impacts their performance. Whether you’re looking for boat storage or are ready to hit the water, it’s important to handle basic to-dos so your craft runs efficiently. Below are key aspects of boat-ownership to ensure you get years of use from your vessel.

3 Tips for Taking Care of Your Boat

1. Flush & Maintain the Engine

Your engine can collect a lot of muck and debris while you’re on the lake, so flush it with water after every use. Look for a dedicated port or hose hookup on the engine and run hose-water through it for several minutes. 

Going forward, you’ll want to monitor oil levels to ensure the engine parts are well-lubricated and apply anti-corrosives to prevent rusting. Many boat owners schedule a professional tune-up to handle all these needs when they bring their watercraft out of boat storage.

2. Keep It Clean & Covered

A boat can take on dirt easily, and it can quickly stain and wear down your surfaces. Wipe down any buildup with a soft cleaner; warm water and dish soap are often enough to handle most messes. 

Do this on interior surfaces and the boat’s hull to prevent unsightly stains. Vacuum flooring and upholstery to remove food crumbs so you don’t attract rodents, and dry surfaces when you’re finished to prevent mold growth.

3. Don’t Delay Surface Repairs

Tears in the flooring and upholstery will only worsen, especially when water seeps in and damages the sensitive materials inside them, so have these areas patched up right away. The same goes for any dents or holes in the hull. 

These can quickly worsen if you hit the water again because the stress and pressure will cause further damage. Schedule a professional inspection and repairs to tackle the issue.

If you’re searching for a boat storage facility in Cropwell, AL, Dooley's Boat & RV Storage can assist. This family-owned and -operated facility tailors to boaters and RV owners and offers safe storage solutions. You’ll also find self-storage solutions for your belongings, which you can learn about on their website. Call (205) 405-2633 to speak with a leasing agent.