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The #1 Autumn Boat Maintenance Checklist

September 20, 2020 at 4:00 AM
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Autumn is the time when the boating season slowly comes to a rest, so it's important to really think about how to prepare your boat for the long winter months alone. Given that we get into some pretty freezing temperatures here in Ontario, preventing freeze damage is top of mind. While most boaters opt to hire a professional boat detailing service,here is a checklist for all boaters alike to make sure your autumn boat maintenance tasks are checked off before your boat goes into hibernation.

  • Winterize the mechanical systems: sanitation, engines, plumbing.
  • Professionally clean the deck and topsides. 
  • Flush the bilge and add environmentally-friendly antifreeze
  • Vacuum cushions and mattress, have them professionally Steam Cleaned and set them upright during storage to allow airflow
  • Remove all food, and thoroughly wash the inside of the refrigerator and freezer to avoid mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors
  • Hire a professional to polish and protect the hull and deck surfaces of the boat.
  • Do a complete professional detail of the boat. A professional will use specialty cleaners to remove rust, tree sap, water runoff, etc... on fibreglass; these stains run the risk of becoming permanent if not taken care of correctly.
  • Prop fridges and freezers open to allow airflow.
  • Carpet and fabric about the vessel should be steam-cleaned, and be sure to have any accumulated stains treated before the dirt, mold, wine, foot traffic .. etc become untreatable damage. 
  • Empty and deep detail all interior and exterior lockers. Create a thorough inventory of belongings.
  • Double check all areas to guarantee any mystery odours and/or water accumulation is remediated before months to fester.