The Hidden Costs of Ignoring Your Boat’s Storage Needs
Your boat offers a way to enjoy worry-free, sunny afternoons with loved ones, creating lasting memories. However, it’s also a major financial commitment that requires consistent care.
Ignoring this maintenance can lead to serious long-term damage and costly repairs. In this blog from the storage experts at Honey Bee RV Storage, we’ll discuss what can happen when your boat isn’t stored properly, and how to prevent those problems before they start.
How Improper Storage Leads to Expensive Boat Repairs
Exposure to the sun, freezing temperatures, and heavy rainstorms can be a recipe for disaster for improperly stored boats. If your boat’s motor is left unprotected, it’s highly susceptible to corrosion, which can seize pistons and damage electrical systems.
Beyond the engine, the sun’s UV rays are also the enemy of a boat’s fiberglass and gelcoat finish. If left under the sun for too long, it can lead to chalking and cracking that requires extensive restoration. These issues compound over the offseason, especially when your boat is in storage, which is why it is vital to choose appropriate storage for your vessel.
Mold, Rust, and Depreciation Can Happen With Poor Maintenance
If youleave your boat outside for too long in a hot, humid climate, it can quickly develop mold and rust. Moisture trapped inside an unventilated cabin creates the perfect environment for these issues to form. Not only does this make the interior unhealthy and unusable, but fixing it can be complex and costly, often requiring full replacement of upholstery and soft materials.
Exterior fittings, screws, and railings are also prone to rust and seizing. When it comes time to sell, buyers often notice this neglect immediately, leading to significant depreciation. Your boat’s value and reliability can drop, reducing your return on investment.
Why Covered Boat Storage Protects Your Investment
The best defense against all these problems is securecovered boat storage. Covered storage facilities shield your vessel from direct UV rays, preventing paint fading and vinyl cracking. They also lower the risk of standing water collecting and freezing on the deck or inside the cabin, which can cause structural damage.
Investing in high-quality, covered boat storage is like a long-term savings plan. It provides security and helps shield your boat from weather-related wear, helping you maintain both its beauty and its value.
The Connection Between Boat Storage and Boat Insurance Rates
Insurance companies know the risks that come with improper storage. A boat left uncovered in a driveway is a greater liability than one stored in a secure facility.
When you request a quote or ask how much boat insurance costs, your rate may depend on how and where you store your vessel. Keeping it in a secure and convenient boat storage space shows responsible ownership and can help lower your premiums by reducing the likelihood of costly damage claims.
How Much Is Boat Insurance?
Boat insurance typically costs between $200 and $500 annually for basic coverage, while premium coverage can range from $300 to $600 per year. The cost is roughly 1% to 5% of the boat’s value. Larger watercraft and more expensive vessels tend to be costlier.
Save on Future Boat Repairs With Honey Bee RV Storage
Don’t let your valuable boat investment deteriorate while you wait for the next boating season. By choosing offseason covered boat storage at Honey Bee RV, you’re investing in your vessel’s longevity and value.
Find a Honey Bee RV Storage facility near you and reserve your space to shield your boat from costly damage year-round. Contact us online or call our team today if you have any questions.