Many options are on the market for storing a boat, but not all are as effective. For example, one popular method for storing a boat during the winter months is to have it shrink-wrapped. This is a fairly expensive procedure that only lasts one season and could cause additional damage to the boat. For example, one risk of putting anything in storage for several months is that mildew, mold, or dry rot will build up on the surface of the object, and when a boat is shrink wrapped, this is a risk, as moisture can become trapped inside the shrink wrap and cause mildew and mold to form on the surface of the boat. Other options include tarping a boat and using a boat canopy. Both of these methods have less risk for the boat during storage.
The method recommended for storing a boat is to use a boat canopy. These shelters are much like the ones seen in previous posts, such as portable garages and motorcycle shelters. The basic shelter design is a fully-enclosed canopy made from a galvanized steel frame and a polyethylene canopy. The steel frame is typically a peaked roof structure, much like a shed, and the full canopy drapes over this design. The canopy itself is a polyethylene material that is treated to be waterproof and UV resistant, as well as dry rot and mildew resistant.
How do you store a boat in one of these shelters? As the shelter is fully enclosed, the boat can go inside and be stored for several months. The heavy-duty polyethylene canopy has some breathability, allowing air to circulate underneath to prevent dry rot and mildew from forming on the boat. The door to this type of shelter is a roll up or zipper door, so the vehicle can be accessed while in storage. During the months the boat is in the canopy, it should be checked for any mildew or dry rot build up and if any animals have found their way into the shelter.