Guide to Laying Up Your Boat for Winter
Here’s our handy guide to preparing your boat for the winter months. Whether you’re storing ashore or staying afloat, a bit of winterisation now will help protect your boat’s interior, exterior and machinery – saving you time and expense when spring returns.
1. Keeping Your Boat’s Interior Fresh
The inside of your boat is especially prone to damp and mould during winter, usually caused by condensation. Keeping the interior dry and well-ventilated is key to preventing musty smells and mildew.
We stock a range of Dehumidifiers and Moisture Traps to help maintain a dry cabin. The August Race Boat Bomb is a great option for freshness too. It works by fogging the interior with an anti-mould formula, helping to protect fabrics and surfaces.
For extra protection, add a bit of gentle warmth and airflow with Tube Heaters and improved Ventilation. Leaving cushions and locker lids propped open helps air circulate. Before leaving your boat, empty your Holding Tanks. Also make sure the toilet is flushed with fresh water – sea water can cause unwanted odours over time.
2. Exterior Winter Boat Care
Protecting your boat’s exterior is just as important. A good Boat Cover or Tarpaulin keeps the worst of the weather off, helping to prevent staining and frost damage. It’s also worth covering seats, consoles and any exposed equipment.
If you own a RIB, apply a UV protector to the tubes – especially if you’re not using a fitted RIB Cover. Remove camper covers and biminis over winter to prevent wind damage.
Before covering up, it’s a good idea to clean and polish your hull. A fresh Coat of Wax will help protect the surface and stop Stains from leaves, grime and UV exposure.
3. Winterising Your Engine and Machinery
Engines need special care during winter. The main threat is frost damage, as expanding ice can crack blocks, pumps and pipework.
Check that your Engine Coolant contains enough Antifreeze to protect against freezing. You can also add Non-Toxic Antifreeze to your freshwater system. If your boat is stored ashore, a Tube Heater in the engine space can help prevent frost buildup.
For outboards, fit an Outboard Motor Cover or remove the engine entirely and store it on an Outboard Trolley or Bracket in a dry space. Treat your fuel with a Fuel Stabiliser for petrol or a Diesel Bug Treatment for diesel, and remember that Fuel Tanks are best stored either completely full or empty to minimise condensation.
If your boat remains afloat, ensure Bilge Pumps are working correctly and that your batteries stay Charged & Maintained.
A little preparation now makes a big difference later. Protect your boat this winter and look forward to a smooth start next season.
Happy Sailing!
