Boating is a wonderful and adventurous hobby, but it might not always be practical to keep your boat stored on your own property. This raises the question: Can you store a boat in a storage unit? The answer is absolutely yes, but choosing the right storage option requires careful consideration and preparation.
Are There Indoor Storage Units for Boats?
One of the main reasons you might consider storing your boat in a storage unit is that you do not want to leave your boat outside and exposed to the elements. Fortunately, there are affordable storage units that are large enough to accommodate your boat while still leaving enough room for you to maneuver around and perform necessary maintenance on your vessel.
The ideal boat storage unit size depends on your unique needs. A 12′ x 30′ x 14′ unit will accommodate most personal boats or trailers. An oversized boat may require a 12′ x 40′ x 14′ unit instead.
Should You Use Indoor or Outdoor Boat Storage?
Indoor storage units for boats offer the most protection, but there are also valid reasons to rent an outdoor storage lot. Choosing between indoor and outdoor storage depends on your budget and how accessible you want your boat to be.
If you need a place to store your boat but still want to be able to venture out at a moment’s notice, outdoor storage is the way to go. Outdoor units also tend to be less expensive, saving you around $200 per month or more compared to an indoor unit of similar size.
However, indoor storage guards against humidity, weather conditions, and the effects of debris or salty sea air. While an indoor unit is more expensive, you may save more money in the long run by reducing the need to maintain your stored boat.
How Much Does It Cost To Store Your Boat in a Storage Unit?
The monthly cost for boat storage units can range from $50 to $400. The exact price depends on the location of the storage facility, local demand for its services, the size of the individual unit, and whether it is an indoor or outdoor space.
If you need the most affordable boat storage, it is common to find a safe and covered outdoor unit at a dedicated facility for less than $150 per month. By comparison, docking at a marina can cost thousands of dollars per month.
For greater protection than an outdoor unit or even a marina lot, renting an indoor storage unit is a worthwhile decision. Indoor storage units for boats commonly cost between $300 and $400 per month and often include built-in lighting and access to power outlets for maintenance equipment or charging electronics.
Do You Need To Prepare Your Boat for Storage?
Whether you opt for indoor or outdoor storage, there are certain precautions you should take if you plan not to use your boat for an extended period of time. To prevent costly damage, you need to protect your boat from pests, weather, and part malfunctions.
How To Clean Your Boat Before Storing
Thorough cleaning is necessary to prevent rust or corrosion and to slow down the onset of mold and mildew. If your boat will be unattended for more than a couple of months, a deep cleaning may be in order before leaving it in storage.
Give particular attention to any carpeted areas, vinyl seating, and appliances aboard the boat. Clean the exterior as well as the interior, including storage spaces. This is also a good opportunity to clean any fishing gear that you keep aboard the boat to help prevent saltwater damage. Lastly, apply a layer of wax to the exterior and deck areas to stave off rust and sun damage if you are storing your boat outdoors.
How To Keep Mice Out of Your Boat
Mice and other rodents are always looking for an ideal shelter in which to nest. Boats are ideal hideaways for mice because they have so many easily accessible entry points. Make sure to mouse-proof your boat before extended storage, otherwise you might come back to find a full-blown infestation.
You can apply mouse-repellant sprays throughout your boat to keep the rodents at bay or use more natural solutions like mothballs or certain essential oils. It is also a good idea to seal potential entry points such as the propeller shaft, drain holes, and ventilation openings—just make sure to open them up again before putting your boat back to use.
Of course, storing your boat indoors is the most straightforward solution for keeping pests from nesting within it. Take the time to check reviews for local storage facilities to make sure you are getting a unit that is clean and pest-free.
How To Store Boat Batteries
There are several types of boat batteries, including flooded lead-acid batteries and absorbed glass mat batteries; however, all of them will lose charge over time even when not in use. Storing boat batteries properly will slow down this process so you can avoid buying a replacement before you decide to hit the water again.
During long periods of storage, it is best to disconnect the battery and store it somewhere dry, well-ventilated, and safe from extreme temperatures. It is usually best to use a battery storage box and keep it indoors, though outdoor storage is perfectly acceptable during dry, mild conditions.
How To Winterize Your Boat
If you plan to store your boat in a storage unit over the winter, there are some other specific considerations to keep in mind. Cover the boat using a tarp or a similar method if you are storing it outdoors. Change the engine oil to prevent thickening due to low temperatures. It is also a good time to perform engine maintenance by flushing, fogging, and changing gear lube.
Store Your Boat at Boat Stop Storage
Not only can you store a boat in a storage unit, but you can even find a storage facility that specializes in accommodating boats and trailers. At Boat Stop Storage, we offer both indoor and outdoor storage units of various sizes, all of which are protected by our 24/7 surveillance and monitoring systems. Compare our storage options and call today to reserve the perfect unit to suit your needs.