Using Roof Rolls To Build Winter Boat Protection

A winter cover is supposed to protect the boat.

Using roof rolls to build winter boat protection.

Consider a cloth roof using a fabric like weathermax. The higher you make the frame the easier it is for snow and ice to just slide off and not build up. Most importantly the cover should last through the entire winter. Semi rigid products are used on larger vessels such as sport fishing boats and yachts.

To do the job it should keep water snow and ice out yet not encourage excess condensation which will lead to mildew. They don t roll up and they require the room to swing up and fasten to the roof or slide sideways. A boat can be an appealing place for critters during cold winter months and a plastic or canvas barrier only offers temporary protection from their sharp gnawing teeth. Campers need protection when the skies aren t blue.

If you know a person who works with boat tops they can order this material in a variety of colors. Here are the steps i took from conception to realization in making a functional winter boat shop under the shrink wrapped shelter on my tayana 42 eclipse 1. Raccoons and other small animals have been known to use campers as winter homes. Last winter i decided to build a seasonally reusable structure that offers plentiful space to do the only thing i love more than sailing boat work.

Year round temporary patio enclosures that roll up clear vinyl enclosures roll up down quickly for protection from weather and are easily removable for seasonal or temporary use. By building your own dedicated boat garage you will be able to ensure that it s properly sized for your boat. The holes should be at least 1 foot deep. And it should come off when you want it off not as the result of a winter storm.

Build a 2 pvc or 2x4 a frame to rest on the boat and pull the tarp over and bungi cord to the trailer frame. The same rodent and insect prevention techniques in your home traps poison mothballs also apply to your boat. That s why winter covers are oversize and have a frame like a tent. Roll down each panel independently or partially to block wind rain for increased warmth or a cooler breeze.

Set the posts in holes 8 or 12 feet from each other. A well built roof over your camper can reduce or eliminate many of these problems. Boat storage yards are expensive while a regular cover will keep out rain but it won t shed leaves or snow. Step 1 dig holes for the posts.

Plus its easy to undo the transom end of the tarp and climb inside if you want to inspect or get stuff. Furthermore you won t have to kick your car out just to make space and you can add whatever type of security features you want to make sure your boat is safe all winter long. Making your own frame for your boat s winter cover will save you money now and work at the beginning of fitting out season.