Reasons Why You Should Store Your Boat or RV for the Off-Season

Boats and RVs are perfect for Summer adventures, but as fall and winter months come along, many owners usually struggle with where to store their outdoor toys. Should you leave these expensive items outside and endure the harsh weather conditions or store them inside to protect them from damage? If you're one of those boat or RV owners, then this blog post is for you. We'll give you all the reasons why you should store your boat or RV for the winter or off-season.

Protects Your Boat or RV from Damage

One of the biggest reasons to store your boat or RV during the winter months is to protect it from damage. Harsh weather conditions such as wind, snow, ice, and low temperatures can cause serious damage to your outdoor toys. Prolonged sun exposure can cause fading and cracking of the exterior of your RV or boat as well.

Odds are, unless you store your RV or boat in a garage or carport on your property, these outdoor toys are vulnerable to theft and vandalism as well. Storing your boat or RV in a proper storage unit or facility not only keeps it safe from the elements but also provides security against theft or vandalism.

Frees Up Your Property 

If you have restrictions in your city ordinances or a smaller property, storing a boat or RV on-site may not be feasible for you. Off-site storage at a secure storage facility can be a wise option and allow you to free up your property for other activities and functions. 

Saves You Money in the Long Run

Storing your boat or RV may seem like an unnecessary expense, but leaving your boat or RV outside for extended periods exposes them to weather that can wear down their exterior and interiors. This wear and tear could cause significant damage to your boat or RV and translate into costly repairs. Some boat and RV storage unit facilities allow you to pay on a monthly basis for service, while others charge a flat rate for a set amount of time. 

Choosing the Right Storage Option

When it comes to storing your boat or RV, you have two main options: covered or open storage. Covered storage options provide complete protection from the elements and are often temperature-controlled. This ensures that your boat or RV is protected from rust, mold, mildew, and other environmental damage. These storage options usually entail full enclosures and also offer even more protection for your outdoor toys on a security level.

On the other hand, open storage options are generally cheaper and may be adequate for a shorter storage period. They usually include at least a carport-style coverage and a fenced property so your RV or boat is not just left to the elements. Ultimately, the choice between a covered and uncovered option depends on how often you store your boat or RV and other factors like your budget and lifestyle.

Prepping Your Boat or RV for Storage

The preparation process varies depending on the type of vehicle, but some general tips include:

• Drain all water systems and tanks
• Remove all perishable and delicate items
• Ensure your vehicle is clean and dry
• Lubricate moving parts
• Disconnect all batteries 

A mechanic can help you prepare your boat or RV for long-term or seasonal storage. 

Storing your boat or RV during the winter or off-season is an excellent way to protect your investment. Proper storage provides a range of benefits such as protection from damage, cost-saving in the long run, convenient maintenance options, and choosing the right storage option. By taking the time to properly prepare your vehicle for storage, you'll ensure that it's still in excellent condition when you're ready to hit the road or water again. For all your storage and moving needs, call United Moving & Storage today.