Streamlining Boat Tarp Post Installation

Tarping a boat is a great way to protect it from the elements and preserve its value. It is also a cost-effective alternative to custom boat covers or shrink-wrapping. When tarping a boat, it is important to choose the right size tarp, protect the tarp from sharp edges, create ventilation spots, and secure the tarp properly. Here are some tips to make the process easier:

- Measure your boat to determine the size of the tarp you need.

- Cover any sharp edges on your boat, such as antennas or windshield frame corners, with a soft cloth or carpet to prevent tearing the tarp.

- Create ventilation spots to prevent mould and mildew, especially if storing your boat near water or in a humid environment.

- Use poles or sticks to prop up any low spots in the tarp and prevent rainwater or snow from collecting.

- Secure the tarp with ropes, bungee cords, or weighted objects.

Choose the right tarp size

Choosing the right tarp size is crucial to ensure your boat is adequately protected. Here are some tips to help you select the right tarp size:

Measure Your Boat

Before purchasing a tarp, it is essential to measure the length and width of your boat accurately. This will give you a clear idea of the tarp size you need. Consider not just the length and width of your boat but also the height, especially if you have a particularly tall boat or one with a cabin. You want to make sure the tarp is large enough to cover the entire boat, from bow to stern and from the gunwales to a point below the waterline.

Allow for Overhang

When choosing the size of your boat tarp, consider the need for overhang. The tarp should extend beyond the edges of your boat to ensure proper coverage and protection. This is especially important if you want to protect your boat from the elements, as overhang will help keep rain and snow from seeping into the covered area. Therefore, when measuring for your tarp, add a few extra feet to the length and width of your boat to allow for adequate overhang.

Consider Custom-Made Tarps

If your boat doesn't fit standard tarp sizes, consider opting for a custom-made tarp. Many manufacturers can create tarps tailored to your boat's exact dimensions. While custom tarps may cost more, they will ensure a perfect fit and maximize the protection of your vessel. This is especially beneficial if you have a unique boat design or one with unusual dimensions.

Choose the Right Thickness

In addition to size, it is crucial to select the appropriate tarp thickness for your needs. Tarp thickness is typically measured in mils, with higher mil counts indicating a thicker and more durable tarp. For heavy-duty applications, such as protecting your boat during harsh weather conditions or long-term storage, opt for a thicker tarp with a higher mil count. Thinner tarps are more suitable for light-duty tasks, like providing temporary shade or covering furniture.

Account for Durability and Longevity

If you plan to use your boat tarp frequently or expose it to harsh environments, investing in a thicker and more durable tarp is advisable. Thicker tarps are more resistant to tearing and punctures, ensuring longevity and enhanced protection over time. Additionally, consider the material of the tarp, as some materials offer better protection against the elements and are more resistant to mildew and UV damage.

Ensure Proper Securement

When choosing a tarp size, consider the securement method you plan to use. Ensure the tarp is large enough to allow for proper fastening. Look for built-in grommets or reinforced edges that facilitate securement. You can use bungee cords, ropes, or straps to fasten the tarp securely and prevent it from being displaced or blown away by strong winds.

Protect sharp edges

Tarps are meant for soft handling and careful usage, so it's important to be cautious of sharp edges on your boat when covering it with a tarp. Keep an eye out for the windshield frame corners and the antennal mounts, as these are the key sharp edges that can easily tear a tarp. If there is heavy wind blowing and you haven't taken any precautions, your tarp could be torn in half!

To prevent this, cover the sharp edges with a soft towel or carpet. If you don't have access to these, try anything soft that can reduce the sharpness. You can also purchase edge protectors to place over your tarp, which are designed to keep the tarp away from the sharp corners of your boat. These protectors are made from heavy-duty plastic materials and are a cheap investment to protect your tarp.

Another option is to use a rubber or foam pad, such as a baby table corner protector, to place over the corners of your boat before putting on the tarp. You can also use plumbing pipe foam, which comes in different sizes and can be cut to the size you need. Alternatively, you can use a heater hose or radiator hose, which can withstand the wear and tear of the cover.

Create an even height

Creating an even height is crucial when covering your boat with a tarp to prevent rainwater or snow from pooling in low spots and causing damage. Here are some tips to achieve an even height:

Measure Your Boat

Before purchasing or making a tarp, it's essential to measure your boat accurately. Take measurements of the length, width, and height of your boat, paying attention to any vertical protrusions or indentations. This will help you determine the size and shape of the tarp you need.

Use Poles or Telescopic Poles

One effective way to create an even height is by using poles. Place poles in the middle of the boat or in the vessel's low areas to lift the tarp and prevent it from sagging. You can use regular poles or rubber-capped telescopic poles, which can be adjusted to the desired height.

Avoid Combining Smaller Tarps

While it may be tempting to use multiple smaller tarps to cover a large boat, this can lead to problems with water "ponding" or leakage at the joints. It's best to use a single tarp that fits your boat or have a custom-made tarp that matches your boat's measurements.

Consider the Boat's Profile

If your boat has a relatively flat profile without many highs and lows, a tarp is a good option for covering it. In this case, achieving an even height will be easier, and you may not need to use poles or other support structures.

Use an A-Frame Structure

Building an A-frame structure over your boat can help create an even height for the tarp. This structure can be made from wood or metal tubing and provides a steep slope that sheds snow and rainwater effectively.

Secure the Tarp Properly

Ensuring that the tarp is securely fastened will help maintain an even height. Use grommets or tie-down straps to fasten the tarp to the boat or support structure. Make sure the tarp is tight enough to prevent sagging but not so tight that it puts excessive pressure on the grommets.

Ventilation spots

Ventilation is essential when covering your boat with a tarp, especially if it's stored near or in the water, as this can lead to mould and mildew forming under the tarp.

To prevent this, you can purchase a Boat Vent 2 or Boat Vent 3, which are designed to be added to any custom or semi-custom marine cover. These vents prolong the life of your boat's upholstery by venting the enclosed space of warm, moist air. They are made from UV-inhibited plastic and can withstand any climate. The Boat Vent 3 is also designed with an overhanging top to allow in less moisture.

Alternatively, you can make your own ventilation spots. One way to do this is by cutting a 10-foot piece of plastic gutter drain in half and cutting 1.5-inch holes every foot, staggered on the sides, top and bottom. Leave the last 2 feet of the gutter drain free of holes, and this will stick out of the tarp.

Another DIY option is to use thin plastic tubing, 8 inches round and 3 feet long, tied into the main beam of your boat cover at an angle to allow fresh air to circulate inside. This will also prevent rain from accumulating under the tarp.

Secure the tarp

Now that you have your tarp set up, it's time to secure it. This is a crucial step, as you don't want your hard work to go to waste if a strong gust of wind comes along.

There are several ways to secure your tarp. One method is to use cords or ropes to tie down the tarp. If your boat has grommets, you can use them to tie the tarp with bungee cords. Make sure to evenly set the tarp before tying it down to avoid any low spots that could collect rainwater or snow. If your boat doesn't have grommets, you can loop the tie-downs beneath the boat to secure the tarp. Alternatively, you can use the anchoring method by tying the ropes against heavy materials on the sides of your vessel, such as buckets filled with sand or cement.

Another way to secure your tarp is by using bungee straps. These are even better than ordinary ropes as they can be hooked into grommets, providing a more secure hold. You can also use weighted objects, such as old cans filled with water, to hold down the bungee straps. This is especially useful if you need to access the boat frequently.

Additionally, you can use poles or sticks to prop up the tarp and create a tent-like structure. This will give you more headroom and make the tarp more secure in windy conditions.

It is also important to note that you should always cover any sharp edges on your boat, such as antennas or windshield frame corners, with soft materials like towels or carpets before placing the tarp. This will prevent the tarp from tearing.

Finally, if you are using a frame for your tarp, make sure to use plenty of rope to tie it down securely. You can also use duct tape to hold the frame together and protect your boat from any chafing.

Frequently asked questions