Three common methods
| Method | Advantage | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Tarpaulin on a cover frame | Can be used for several years, easy to open | Must be heavy-duty and reinforced, otherwise it flaps and tears |
| Tailored boat cover | Fits the boat, fewer water pockets | Should be breathable and withstand UV and frost |
| Shrink wrap | Taut to the boat, little loose material | New plastic every year, requires a heat gun and vents |
A thin builder's tarp rarely lasts a whole winter.
The frame gives the slope
- Build a ridge that gives a clear slope to the sides. Snow and water should run off, not collect in hollows.
- Protect sharp edges on rails and fittings so they don't wear holes.
- Don't place the boat under a sloping roof or large trees where snow can slide down.
Fasten it properly
- Never tie the tarpaulin to props or stands. A flapping tarpaulin can pull a prop out of position.
- If you have a sturdy cradle, it's fine to tie to that.
- Containers of water or sand work as weights. Don't fill the water containers completely. They can crack when it freezes.
- If you drive in ground anchors, find out where water and power lines run first.
- Ropes stretch. Tighten them after windy weather.
Air under the cover
Completely airtight covers often lead to more moisture, because condensation has nowhere to go. Leave openings at the ends or fit vents high up. Shrink wrap also needs vents, and a zip door lets you look inside without cutting the plastic.
Shrink wrap it yourself
- Do the winter service first, while you can reach everything.
- Wash the boat and let it dry. No water in the cockpit or bilge.
- Build supports and strapping for the ridge.
- Measure over the finished frame and add margin according to the installation instructions.
- Lay the film on, secure it and shrink it with a heat gun. Keep the heat away from fuel and vents.
- Fit vents and door. Check seams and drainage.
Don't do it in strong wind. Many boatyards and companies will shrink wrap your boat for you.
During the winter
Check the cover after storms and snowfall. Carefully remove snow and sagging pockets, without climbing onto the cover. If the tarpaulin comes loose, fix it right away. At many clubs this is the boat owner's responsibility.
Frequently asked questions
Do you have to cover the boat in winter?
Boats stored outdoors should be covered so rain and snow don't get in. Many clubs require it. At Nacka Båtklubb the boat must be covered no later than three weeks after haul-out.
What should a winter cover be able to withstand?
It should be heavy-duty and reinforced, with reinforced corners and eyelets, and large enough to give a good slope. It should withstand snow, ice, UV light and repeated frost.
Can the shrink wrap be reused?
No, plan on new film every winter. The heat gun and some accessories can be reused. Take the plastic for recycling according to the waste facility's rules.
How often should I check on the boat?
After every storm and heavy snowfall. If you are away, ask a boat neighbour to check on it.
Sources
- Täckning av båten, Atlantica atlantica.se
- Täckningstips inför vintern, Trosa Båtklubb trosabatklubb.se
- Vintertäckning av båt med krympplast, Nordisk Plastkrympning plastkrympning.se
- Ventilation vid vinterförvaring, Atlantica atlantica.se
- Vinterliggare på land, Nacka Båtklubb nackabk.se