See full version: Best Tarps for Covering Boats
Mold and mildew are risks of tightly wrapping a boat for the winter. There are crystal pellets that absorb moisture that will help. The right tarp also helps. Shrinkwrap that is not properly ventilated may lead to rust and mildew. With the best boat tarp, you’ll have years of protection for a much lower price. Plus, the tarp is reusable and won’t add unnecessary plastic to the landfill in the spring. here
Different engines may need additional steps in order to prepare the boat for winter. An outboard motor must be drained of all water prior to storage. You may also need to clean fuel filters and change the oil in the crankcase and transmission or use an oil stabilizer if changing the oil isn’t possible. Once you’ve taken these steps, it’s time to cover and store your boat. more
Chicago Canvas has a wide selection of Iron Horse polyester tarps. Grommets are applied approximately 2′ apart to properly secure the Iron Horse tarp to your boat using bungees or rope. Choose from seven colors and get the polyester waterproof tarp in sizes as small as 5 by 7′ or as large as 30 by 30′. If that’s not big enough, don’t worry. We can customize the Iron Horse tarp to meet your needs. [links]
Winter weather has already arrived in some areas with unexpected snowstorms. As the temperatures dip, it’s time to start thinking about winterizing your boat. There’s more to winterizing than pulling your boat from the water. One of the main considerations after you’ve taken steps to protect the engine is deciding which are the best tarps for covering boats.
Before you cover your boat with a tarp, you need to winterize the engine, fuel tank, and lines. You don’t want freezing temperatures to cause liquids to crack lines, the engine block, or tanks. You don’t want last year’s oil to corrode the crankcase or the fuel to separate in the cold and become gummy. To prevent this, there are five steps to take.
Re: how to keep snow off tarp? [links]
Put it in a garage? That will keep snow off it. jus jokin. <br /><br />When I had my other boat, I used the ski tube (inflated of course) and stood it up on its edge in the center of the boat. Just make sure that you have plenty of pitch. Once snow gets so deep it will slide off. Especially when the wind blows. I cover the back of my cabin cruiser with one of those plastic tarps. I string rope back and forth from the bridge to the rear deck rail. This keeps it from collapsing when we have snow fall. Speaking of, tonight 3-5 expected. here
Re: how to keep snow off tarp? more
This year I replaced my wood "saw horse" frame for a 2" PVC frame. Its sched 40 so it should hold up the weight. I like it because of its quick set up and take down. I'll find out if it bears the weight of snow as well as the 1x4 pine frame I used last winter. The frame is same height as windshield. Last winter most snow slid off. I'll see how it goes this winter. [links]
Spray it with glycol every now & then? <br /><br />(it's a joke)
I have 2 tarps on my boat and I use saw horses to hold a ridge pole up the length of the boat. I have a good 45 degree angle on the tarp from the pole and little snow ever stays on the boat too long (and I live in a snow belt area.<br /><br />I would guess if you put rain-x in a spray bottle and misted the top that would work. I use iy under the pastic fenders on my atv and the mud does not stick.<br /><br />Probably the most sound alternative is to tarp the boat and have it shipped to southern florida or california for the winter . no measurable snow!
Re: Traveling Boat cover - Snap on or tie down? here
While it might be arguable that it's better for fuel economy when towing, I like the fact that prying eyes can't see the GPS/Sonar unit perched on top of the dash.
We had a custom made snap-on cover included as part of a sales promotion when we bought our new boat last year. The thing I like the best about it is that it is so easy to put on and take off. So easy, in fact, that I use it every time I go out, even if the drive is only for 3 miles. It folds easily and gets dropped into the back of the 4Runner while we're on the lake.
Re: Traveling Boat cover - Snap on or tie down?
Going to be purchasing a new boat cover for traveling long distances on the highway. Which type of cover is better for high speed traveling, the snap type (covers just the bow and cockpit) or a tie down which covers the whole boat.
I do carry luggage in the boat so I need it to keep the water out if it rains
If you want a heavy-duty tarp, you should opt for a canvas cover. They are heavier than plastic so they flap less even in the wind. Since canvas cover is more durable, they can last for four or more seasons. Unlike plastic, they can be patched or restored easily in case they get ripped.
If a shrink wrap cover is installed properly it can be a good waterproof cover option. You can be sure that rainwater will not enter your boat. Since shrink wrap covers are not breathable, you would need to install vents to let moisture out. If not, it may cause mold and mildew growth inside your boat. here
The best thing about getting yourself a high-quality cover is that you can use it all season. Some boat owners prefer a good quality boat cover over a tarp and a shrink wrap, even if it means spending more. Among other covers, boat covers are the most expensive but can for more than a few years.
If your boat has standard features or is a typical model, a universal boat cover will do just fine. Though they are universal, they still come in different sizes, so be sure to measure your boat to ensure you have the right size.
Another advantage of boat covers is that they are easy to install, you won’t even need a professional to do it for you. Hiring an expert means additional cost and for sure you’d want to reduce your expenses.
Custom covers are those that are tailor-made for your boat. They can be more expensive than universal or semi-custom ones. If your boat was customized for your or has unusual features, getting a custom canvas cover would be the right choice. This will guarantee that your boat will be fully covered, especially if your boat has an unusual style or add-ons. Semi-custom boat covers are somehow like a universal cover as it is designed to fit the general shape of boats.
Re: Switched to tarps for boat covers this winter,
Re: Switched to tarps for boat covers this winter, [links]
Re: Switched to tarps for boat covers this winter,