Before you store the boat
Only a good quality marine boat wash product will get rid of the yellow stains on the hull
D
STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE
Don’t just put a cover on that pontoon boat and take it to storage for the winter if you expect to host the grandchildren or college roommates at Lake Martin come spring. Proper cleaning, cosmetic reparations and storage now will ensure a less costly, mildew-free season opener next year, said local boat cleaning professionals. The most important task is to make sure you store the boat dry, said Coach Kraft owner, John Mason. “Take everything out from under the seats – wet life jackets, towels, everything. Get all the wet gear out from under the seats. Leave seat cushions in an upright position, and if you can, try to leave a door or two open in the pontoon boat for better air flow,” Mason cautioned. “The idea is to minimize dampness.” Water may be the key to good times during the summer, but in the winter, any hint of water in the boat will promote mildew and mold growth, especially if you cover the boat with canvas over the winter. “The biggest mistake people make is that they miss the cleaning,” said Gary Hardy, owner of On Site Boat Care. “They think it doesn’t really matter if they store the boat dirty because they will not be using it for six months, but it really needs to be thoroughly cleaned before it’s put up for the winter. Dirt and
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moisture make mold. When they uncover the boat, it will be covered with mildew. That gets down into the seats, and in spring, all the upholstery will need to be replaced.” Taking the time now to clean your boat properly will save time and money when you want to get back on the water next season. But using household cleaners could actually damage the boat in the long run, said Mason. “Don’t use Clorox or other bleaches, nothing caustic. Those products will age the upholstery prematurely and eventually crack the vinyl,” he said. “Most marinas sell a product called 303 Protectant. It’s a non-toxic dirt and dust repellant. You spray it on and wipe it off – like similar products for your car, but don’t use the car products on your boat. It will do the same thing as the Clorox.” As you clean the upholstery, check for signs of wear and damage or seams that are splitting open. Seats may start to crack, or some seats may turn a smoky color. “Those are some of the first signs of wear that people will see, and it’s usually when the boat is six or eight years old,” Mason said. “Most people take real good care of the boat for the first three years; then, they start leaving it out in the weather. They figure
OCTOBER 2021
