Protecting Your Boat: Effective Dock Covers

Covering a boat while it's docked can be a tricky task, especially if you're only tying up one side of the boat. There are a few options for covers, each with their own pros and cons. A custom snap-on cover is easy to work with, but can be expensive. A mooring cover is another option, but these can be difficult to put on while the boat is in the water, as you need access to all sides of the boat. Trailering covers can be used as a cheaper alternative to mooring covers, but they are not designed to be kept in the water and may rot over time. If you're only covering your boat overnight, some boaters suggest that it's not worth the trouble, as a quick wipe down in the morning will take care of any dew.

The pros and cons of using a cover

Using a cover for your boat while it's docked is a great way to protect your investment, but there are several factors to consider when deciding whether or not to cover your boat. Here are some pros and cons to help you make an informed decision:

Pros:

• Protection from the Elements: A good cover will protect your boat from rain, snow, sun exposure, dirt, bird droppings, and other environmental factors that can cause damage over time.
• Security: A covered boat may be less appealing to thieves or vandals, as it obscures the contents of your boat.
• Maintenance: Keeping your boat covered when not in use can reduce the amount of cleaning and maintenance required, as it prevents the accumulation of dust, debris, and leaves.

Cons:

• Cost: High-quality custom boat covers can be expensive, and the cost may not be feasible for everyone.
• Inconvenience: Putting on and taking off a boat cover can be time-consuming and cumbersome, especially if you use your boat frequently.
• Moisture Issues: While a cover can protect against external moisture, it can also trap moisture inside the boat if not properly ventilated. This can lead to the growth of mould and mildew, causing extensive damage.
• Pooling Water: If the cover is not fitted correctly or secured tightly, water can pool on top, stretching and damaging the cover, and potentially leaking into the boat.
• Difficulty Finding the Right Cover: Fully waterproof boat covers can be hard to find, and it's important to ensure the cover is specifically designed for your boat's make and model to ensure a snug fit.

Ultimately, the decision to cover your boat while docked depends on various factors, including the climate, frequency of use, storage location, and your budget. While a cover can provide excellent protection, it's crucial to choose the right type of cover and ensure proper ventilation to avoid potential moisture issues.

How to prevent sagging

Sagging boat covers are a common issue for boat owners. Water can collect in sagging covers, causing the boat to take on water or even sink. Water can also cause the cover to deteriorate, and the added weight can damage the boat. To prevent sagging, boat covers need a firm support system that raises the cover in the centre, allowing water to slide off. This can be achieved in several ways, with varying levels of cost and complexity.

Professional Cover and Support Installation

Hiring a professional is the most expensive option but will yield the best results and save you time. A professional can install a custom canvas or shrink-wrap cover. A custom canvas is reusable and comes with framing support and instructions for setup. After the initial installation, it is the owner's responsibility to install the framing and cover in subsequent years. It is important to periodically check and tighten straps and lines to prevent sagging over time.

Shrink-wrap covers fit tightly to the entire vessel and do not sag. They cannot be reused, but they are a good option if you want to ensure a snug fit. Be sure to discuss proper venting with the wrap team to avoid moisture buildup, and have them install a doorway to allow for periodic checks.

DIY Cover and Support Installation

If you want to save money and are handy with craft projects, you can opt for a DIY cover and support installation. There are several options for creating a support system, ranging from simple and inexpensive to more complex and costly.

Support Pole

A standard boat cover support pole is the cheapest option but also the least reliable. Support poles are most effective for small areas of the cover and need to be checked often. They are usually made of thin aluminium or plastic and can easily bend. They typically have a convex end cap or a fabric reinforcement patch where the pole meets the cover.

Pole and Strap Kits

Pole and strap kits include a set of poles and straps that are easy to install and can be purchased from a shrink wrapper or regular stores. However, the quality of the poles is often poor, and there may not be enough straps to prevent sagging between the poles. This option requires frequent checks and adjustments to tighten the cover as it relaxes over time.

Bow and Socket Support

This type of support uses flexible bows made of wood or fibreglass that fit into sockets screwed into the boat gunwales or mounted to rails with clamps. The bows are longer than the area covered, so they bend into arches to support the cover. It is important to use enough bows to eliminate sagging between them and secure the cover tightly. Regular checks are necessary to ensure the cover remains secure.

Suspension System

If your boat has a ski tower, you can use a suspension system to hang your boat cover. This system is easy to use and allows you to quickly hang the cover, with the rig staying attached to the cover.

PVC Tubing Frame

This method uses 3/4" PVC tubing and elbows to create a custom frame for your boat cover. Longer lengths of tubing can be formed into bows, while elbows and T-junctions can be used to customise attachment points. This method offers endless customisation possibilities but requires some thought and trial and error. The bows may need upright poles at their high points for added strength and stability.

Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT) Frame

EMT can be used to create a fully custom frame similar to the PVC tubing frame. Special clamps, such as Kover Klamps, are used to connect the tubing at any angle. This method results in a rigid and strong frame, but it is more difficult and requires special tools like a tubing bender and cutter.

Wooden Frame

Wooden frames are a classic option and can be beautifully constructed, but they require serious carpentry and engineering skills. Wooden frames are durable, strong, and reusable, but they can be heavy and bulky to store. It is important to ensure that any contact points between the frame and cover are smooth to avoid abrasion as the cover moves in the wind.

The best type of cover for your boat

There are several options for covering your boat while it's docked, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most popular methods:

Mooring Cover:

A mooring cover is designed to protect your boat while it's docked in the water. It has elastic around the edges, allowing it to fit snugly over the boat. Mooring covers can be challenging to put on, especially if you're only tying up one side of the boat. They also require access to the sides of the boat to properly secure them. However, they are effective at keeping your boat dry and protected from the elements.

Snap-on Cover:

A snap-on cover is a custom-made cover that snaps onto your boat. It is easier to put on than a mooring cover, especially if you have snaps installed around the boat. Snap-on covers provide excellent protection from the elements and are ideal if you want to keep your boat tied to the dock for an extended period.

Trailerable Cover:

A trailerable cover is similar to a mooring cover, but it also has straps that can be used for towing. These covers are versatile and can be used both while your boat is docked and when you're transporting it on a trailer. However, they may not provide as snug a fit as a dedicated mooring cover.

Custom Cover:

A custom cover is made specifically for your boat's make and model, ensuring a perfect fit. These covers can be expensive, but they are worth the investment if you want maximum protection for your boat. Custom covers can be designed with features like vents and zippers for easy access to your boat's cleats.

Weighted Cover:

If you're looking for a more affordable option, you can modify a trailerable cover by attaching weights to the straps and dropping them into the water. This will pull the cover down tight over the boat. However, this method may put too much stress on the tie-down points and cause the fabric to rot over time.

No Cover:

Some boat owners choose to forego a cover altogether, especially if they plan to use their boat frequently. While this option may not provide the same level of protection, it can be a good choice if you're willing to regularly clean and maintain your boat.

Ultimately, the best type of cover for your boat depends on your specific needs and how often you plan to use your boat. Consider factors like the frequency of use, the duration of docking, and your budget when deciding which cover is right for you.

How to secure the cover

Securing a boat cover can be a tricky process, especially when docking a boat in the water. Here are some tips and techniques to help you secure your boat cover effectively:

Choosing the Right Boat Cover

Select a cover that is specifically designed for mooring or in-water use, often referred to as a "mooring cover". These covers are typically made of durable materials, such as Sunbrella fabric, and may include features like elastic edges or drawstrings to ensure a tight fit. Avoid using a trailer cover as a mooring cover, as it can be challenging to secure and may not provide adequate protection.

Snaps and Cleats

Some boat covers come with snaps or cleats that allow you to securely attach the cover to the boat. Custom-made covers can be designed with rubber cleat grommets added at strategic locations, such as the bow and transom lifting rings, to facilitate easy installation and a snug fit. This ensures that the cover can be installed in the same way as if the boat were on a trailer.

Using Weights and Straps

If your boat cover has straps, you can attach weights to them and drop them into the water to pull the cover down tight. Ensure that the weights are appropriate for the tie-down points and monitor for any signs of wear and tear. This method is useful for unexpected rain but may not be ideal for long-term use as continuously wet fabric can start to rot and mould.

Poles and Supports

To prevent water pooling on the cover, which can lead to tearing and leakage, consider using internal poles or supports. These can be placed inside the boat to create a "tent effect", keeping the cover taut and preventing water accumulation. Some covers come with built-in drawstrings or solid rope/cord systems that can be tightened to achieve a similar effect.

Cover Installation Techniques

When installing a boat cover while docked, it is beneficial to back the boat into the slip to provide easier access to the cover straps and tie-off points. If your boat has a tower, you may need to thread the cover through it and secure it with velcro. Ensure that your dock lines are threaded through the cover manholes to keep the boat securely tied to the dock.

Custom Snap-on Covers

Custom snap-on covers are highly recommended for boats that are frequently docked in the water. These covers are designed for ease of use and can be installed without having to back the boat into the slip. They provide excellent protection from the elements and are less prone to pooling water, which can lead to mould and tearing.

Securing a boat cover while docked can be a challenging task, but with the right tools, techniques, and cover type, you can effectively protect your boat from the elements. Remember to consider the specific features of your boat and dock setup when selecting a cover and always follow safety guidelines when installing and using boat covers.

How to prevent water intrusion

Water intrusion can cause significant damage to your boat and its cover. Pools of water create a breeding ground for mould and mildew, which can damage the cover and also be harmful to your health. The weight of the water can strain the canvas material of the cover, causing rips and tears or even causing the cover to slip off, dumping water into the boat.

To prevent water intrusion, you should:

• Ensure your boat cover fits properly and securely. Ill-fitting covers are a common cause of water pooling.
• Tightly secure your boat cover to reduce slack. This can be done in a variety of ways, including tie-down straps, suction cups, and support poles.
• Reinforce your boat cover at high-tension points.
• Use a boat cover support system. These systems use support poles installed beneath the cover to create a tented effect, allowing water to run off.
• If your boat has wakeboard towers or other overhead structures, consider using a suspension system such as Hangtyte™. This attaches to the cover and allows it to be pulled tight from the tower.
• If you are screwing things into your deck, consider using a marine sealant like 3M 5200 to prevent water seepage.
• Ensure your bilge pump and float switch are in good working order.
• Regularly check all below-the-waterline fittings and connections, and replace rusty hose clamps with quality stainless steel clamps.
• Inspect sterndrives for tears or cracks, as these account for a significant number of sinkings.
• Check the opening where the propeller shaft passes through on an inboard boat. This should not allow any water inside when the engine is secured.
• Ensure cockpit hatches have good, watertight gaskets and can be dogged down.
• Use good dock-line technique, including long lines set at shallow angles, spring lines, and crossed stern lines, to prevent your boat from being trapped beneath a dock.

Frequently asked questions