Before choosing indoor storage, check the dimensions of your boat to ensure that it will fit in the chosen space. Many of our 10x10’ drive-up self storage units can accommodate a wide variety of boats, including 14 to 24-foot fishing boats and runabouts, small pontoons, speed boats, and wakeboard boats (with tower removed). Contact a local Prime Storage location to learn more about available indoor spaces for your boat.
Indoor
Boat owners can also find indoor boat storage at many local marinas and private storage companies. Many marinas utilize state-of-the-art automated rack elevator systems, which safely stack vessels. Others take a more traditional approach, arranging boats side-by-side in a warehouse-like setting. This is often more convenient for boaters who aren’t comfortable with the idea of having lift operators stack their vessel.
Other important security measures that can be implemented by RV and vehicle storage facilities include a secure perimeter fence, gated entry points, and enhanced door security features. The use of these tools can prevent vandalism, theft, and other types of damage. These measures can also be used to enhance the customer experience and improve business.
While a wet-slip storage solution is convenient, it’s not without its drawbacks. Leaving your boat in the water puts it at risk of damage and deterioration. Continuous exposure to sun, wind, seaweed, and other contaminants can lead to rust, corrosion, mould, mildew, and other issues that require regular cleaning and maintenance. In addition, you’ll need to apply antifouling paint every year or so to keep barnacles from forming.
The Benefits of Indoor and Outdoor Boat Storage
An additional benefit of using a specialist RV storage facility is that it will prevent your RV from getting in the way of vehicles you use daily. It will help you avoid parking tickets and parking violations, which can significantly reduce the value of your vehicle over time. Moreover, you can use a specialized storage facility to protect your RV or boat from harsh weather conditions, which can cause damage and decrease their value over time.
Wet
Indoor boat storage is an excellent option for protecting your investment, particularly in a colder climate. This option safeguards boats from snow, ice, and hail, which can damage their surface. Additionally, it shields the boats from the sun’s damaging UV rays. In addition, indoor storage is typically locked at night, with security systems and cameras, preventing theft.
It's important to consider the location of the facility and what type of climate you typically experience in your area when choosing an outdoor boat storage spot. The more severe the climate, the more protective measures you'll need to take. For example, in northern climates, a canopy or marine shrink wrap is essential for protecting your boat from winter snow and ice damage. In addition, you may also need to invest in a winterizing kit to make sure your boat is ready for the offseason.
Before storing your RV, make sure to clean it inside and out. You should also drain all water tanks and make sure they are completely dry. Also, remove all food items from the refrigerator and cupboards. This will prevent rodents from gaining access to your RV. It is also a good idea to cover any vents that insects could crawl through.
One of the biggest benefits of dry storage is the level of security that most facilities offer. Since the boats are stored on the large racks, they are out of sight and reach for potential thieves and vandals. Moreover, the racking system used in dry storage typically has a roof that can protect your boat from weather damage and sun exposure.
RV and Vehicle Storage
Specialist RV and vehicle storage facilities can also protect your vehicle from theft and vandalism. These facilities have security measures like gated access and surveillance that make them a safer and more affordable option than self-storage at your home. They also offer amenities like wide aisles and drive-up access that ensure easier maneuverability for larger vehicles. In addition, they will help you keep your RV and boat in top condition by ensuring that it is cleaned regularly and emptied of fuel and water.
Many of the same considerations apply when deciding on an outdoor storage facility as with any other facility, but some specific factors to look for include
A final advantage of indoor storage is that it protects boats from debris, dust and dirt. This reduces the need for frequent cleaning and maintenance, further extending a boat’s lifespan. In addition, indoor storage provides a safe environment that is free from wind and rain, which can lead to corrosion and water exposure.
Many RV and boat storage customers are looking for a safe, secure place to store their vehicles. These customers tend to be more wealthy and are more interested in preserving their vehicles for future use than in using them as transportation. As a result, they may pay more for an RV or boat storage facility than other customers.
Outdoor storage is an option that's a good fit for many boat owners, especially if they can't find affordable indoor options in their area. It's also a good choice for boat owners who have a lot of boating experience and want to keep their boats safe between trips or during the offseason. While storing a boat outdoors doesn't provide the best protection against sunlight, extreme weather or pests, it's still a cost-effective and convenient storage solution for most vessels of any size.
Safety
The main advantage of this type of storage is that it allows you to access your RV 365 days a year. It is also a great option if you have limited space at home to store your RV. However, you should consider the risks associated with exposing your RV to sunlight. This can cause fading paint, drying rubber, and cracked vinyl decals. It can also cause the metal to rust.
You can also add an antifreeze solution to your RV’s engine and chassis. Additionally, you can check the tire pressure regularly to avoid flat spots. Finally, you should start the motor up periodically to keep it in good shape.
Keeping your RV in a temperature-controlled, level, and dry area away from direct sunlight can help protect your tires. Removing as much weight from within your RV as possible can also make a difference. And making sure weight is distributed evenly is always a good best practice.
The elements are a significant problem. If you park on concrete, the surface can degrade your tires, so you need to place plywood underneath them. Humid, wet weather can cause mold, leaks, and filth to wreak havoc on your family motor coach. Hot and dry weather causes sun damage.
RV storage tips
Those with older RVs likely do not have such a converter. In this case, we recommend unplugging your RV while it's in storage. If you must keep it plugged in all the time, consider switching to a more modern converter that can help keep your batteries healthy.
Pretty much all RVs are equipped with vents on the roof that are specifically there to allow airflow through the unit. You may be inclined to close up these vents before storage, but the truth is, it is best if they are open.
Products like reflective insulation reflect the sun away from your RV to keep the interior cooler. Simply cut a piece of reflective insulation to fit each of your windows and use mini-blinds, window visors or day/night shades to help secure the insulation against your windows or windshield.