weather

[kywildcat]

With the downpours we have been having every few hours in this part of the country, is it better to leave the boat covered for the duration and worry about mold and mildew later or go with the covers off and let the sun and air flow do their thing between storms. I do not have the luxury of an extra garage bay, as I know this is the ideal fix. Thanks for any suggestions.

 

[QC]

Re: weather

I am from L.A. so take whatever I say with that in mind. I have had a covered boat on the side of the house forever and during the winter we can get week on, week off type rain. I open the cover only if I can get a good run with sun. The rest of the time I take a blow dryer and put it under the cover and periodically turn it on and off as I remember and see fit. Seems to work for me. Not perfect, but at least I feel better.

 

[waterone1@aol.com]

Re: weather

What part of Ky are you in ? I'm in Cincinnati (OH). No doubt the weather has been crazy lately. I would keep it covered until there is a sunny clear day then remove as much moisture as possible and let it air out. By the way, this is a good example of why a watertight yet breathable cover, that fits well is important.

 

[kywildcat]

Re: weather

I'm outside of Ashland. My cover is sunbrella, but I'm leary of inadequate ventilation with such high humidity. Thanks

 

[waterone1@aol.com]

Re: weather

If your canvas is in good shape, it should keep the rain out yet still let it breathe. It beats the he11 out of the plastic type boat covers.

 

[sangerwaker]

Re: weather

Mine sits outside too, unfortunately. I started using the damp-rid type dehumidifiers this year. They have been working excellent. No mildew at all. I use two for my boat, but the number would depend on the size and type of your boat.<br /><br />They are available at most home centers around here. Looks like iboats carries them too.<br /><br />

 

[bayman]

Re: weather

I heard that there are solar powered boat cover vents being manufactured now. This sounds like it could be a good idea - depending on where you live.<br /><br />Maybe we will start seeing them around before too long. If they turn out to be a good thing then I'm sure retailers will start carrying them.

 

[rottenray6402]

Re: weather

There are a number of inexpensive tent like covers that you put on a metal frame and it acts as a roof only or you can get them with sides and ends. These work well except in heavy snowfall areas. Our local Tractor Supply has the lowest priced ones in this area.