boat storage for winter - cover hull?

[P239]

I need to put a small skiff up for the winter in New England. I plan to flip it over upsidedown and place it back on the trailer and store it outside. Get a fair amount of tree leaves/pine needles/pitch falling where it will be stored. I'll wax the bottom of the hull that is facing the elements, but is it worthwhile to cover the upsidedown hull surface with a tarp? Not sure if that would potentially trap moisture between the tarp and hull gelcoat and cause more problems? Would prefer not to make a frame to support the tarp. I'm thinking going tarpless will be ok. Any suggestions?
Thanks, P239

 

[Silvertip]

Re: boat storage for winter - cover hull?

By golly, the bottom of the boat gets wet when its in the water so I don't expect there would be a problem protecting it from the elements with a tarp. If the boat were stored upright and protected with a cover that doesn't breathe, then there is the possibility of mold and mildew growth.

 

[P239]

Re: boat storage for winter - cover hull?

I think the mold/mildew is going to be an issue if a tarp is tossed directly on the hull, especially as close as it is to the water and will be stored in a high humidity area. May build a frame over it to support a tarp, but otherwise -guess I'll leave it keel-up and hope the wax will keep the pine pitch and other stuff to a minimum.
Thanks for your input.

 

[MrBigStuff]

Re: boat storage for winter - cover hull?

Rather than a frame, I made some spacers out of closed cell foam to put between the tarp and hull. If you stretch the tarp tight, it creates a nice space for airflow and takes almost no time to put up. I HAD two giant pines (140') in my yard so I know what you're facing. I have since had them cut down due to the aggravation they caused with sap, needles and the occasional widowmaker branch falls.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: boat storage for winter - cover hull?

P239, The bottom of a boat is the toughest part. If that boat is bottom painted (ie stays in salt water in the summer), it doesn't need any kind of protection from the winter. Hell, the pine needles and rain are a vacation for it!

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: boat storage for winter - cover hull?

Put a piece of plywood over it and call it a day.