Purchasing a boat is a big milestone and a big investment. You’ve been dreaming about this for a long time, and now it has finally happened. Now begins the process of finding a place to store it.
You have to weigh several factors when searching for a boat storage facility. You have to consider the location, type of storage, and cost.
Below, we’re going to assist you in that process by comparing the pros and cons of indoor and outdoor boat storage.
Outdoor Boat Storage
Storing your boat outside is the most cost-effective option, and probably your first consideration. Some people might consider this kind of storage just that, cheaper. But others see the value in outdoor boat storage.
Pros
For the frequent boater, this is perhaps the best option. With outdoor storage, your boat is more accessible whenever you want to take it out. It’s easier to simply hook up the trailer and go.
You also get more room to store your accessories with outdoor storage. If you have an oversized boat or a sailboat, this might be a better option because you don’t have to worry about height. If you opt for indoor storage, you might have to maneuver the awkwardly long mast every time you wished to take out your boat.
With outdoor storage, you can keep everything how it’s most convenient for you.
Ultimately, outdoor storage is the best option for boaters who want to take their boat out regularly and don’t want to deal with a lot of fuss every time they go.
Cons
For people who do not take their boat out every weekend and who don’t have time for regular maintenance, outdoor storage might be more trouble than it’s worth.
Outside storage exposes your boat to the elements. This means that it is more prone to sun exposure and the risk of harm from storms or other weather disasters.
Sun exposure causes faded paint jobs and erode at sealants on the boat. This can cause cracking in the deck area. When sealants erode, there is more risk of water getting into the boat and causing damage.
Along with sun exposure, outdoor storage doesn’t protect your boat from storms. If something isn’t secured perfectly, it could blow away. Or, rain could get into the boat and cause mildew or mold.
To counteract some of these cons, you may have to spend a little more time on maintenance and invest in a good quality boat cover.
However, if you’re planning on taking your boat out regularly, and don’t mind the extra maintenance involved, this option is for you.
Indoor Boat Storage
There are two types of indoor boat storage to discuss: covered storage and indoor building storage. Covered storage is a cross between outdoor and indoor storage. With covered storage, you still get easy access to your boat, but you also get more protection from the sun and rain.
Indoor building storage is the most expensive option. But this kind of storage is good for people with expensive equipment on board. This is also a good option for people who do not take their boats out on a very regular basis.
Pros
Storing your boat indoors protects it from outside elements. Inside, there’s no chance of your boat getting water, wind, or sun damage. If you’ve spent a lot of money on a paint job, that’s ideal.
Also, indoor storage protects your valuables from theft. While storage facilities are already gated and locked, some people prefer to be extra cautious. This could be the case if you have expensive fishing equipment or stereo equipment on board.
Along with extra equipment, an indoor storage facility allows you extra indoor space to store things like life jackets, coolers, fishing rods, or any other accessories that you only use with your boat.
That way, you don’t have to carry those things with you to and from where you keep your boat.
Cons
Getting in and out of indoor storage units is more of a challenge than outdoor storage. This can be a challenge even for people experienced with trailers. You will most likely always need assistance to get back into the storage unit.
If you plan on taking your boat out regularly or by yourself, an indoor storage unit could prove extra tricky.
Also, indoor storage units are typically much more costly than outdoor storage. Depending on your budget, this could cut into the money you plan to spend on marine fuel or boat accessories.
Ultimately, indoor storage is the best option for people who want extra room to store their boating toys and don’t want to spend more time and money on maintenance.
Getting Out On the Water
The best boat storage option for you is the one that protects your boat while still allowing you to get out on the water whenever you want. Because of that, there is no one-size-fits-all for which option is best for you.
To sum it all up, outdoor boat storage is better for the frequent boater who doesn’t mind giving their boat a little extra TLC. It is also an easier option for people with larger boats and sailboats because you don’t have to worry about height concerns.
Indoor storage is the best option for holiday boaters who don’t plan on taking their boat out every weekend and want extra room to store their boating accessories. Indoor storage is also best for people more concerned with security and protecting expensive equipment.
If you consider these factors when you pick between indoor and outdoor boat storage, you’re sure to find the perfect solution.
Visit our blog for more tips on choosing a boating facility, or contact us to learn more about our outdoor and indoor boat storage options!