The Importance of Boat Maintenance
Boat maintenance may not be the most exciting part of owning a boat, but it is crucially important to keep it in top shape. Boat maintenance and winterization costs in Indiana can vary by the type and size of boat you have and whether you keep it on the water or not.
How Much Does Boat Winterization Cost in Indiana
You have two options for winterizing your boat. You can either do it yourself or have a professional do it. The size of your boat and where it's stored will impact the final cost. A small boat might only cost $150, but larger boats can be as much as $600. Paying a professional ensures that your boat is in good hands and everything is covered.
If you choose to winterize your boat alone, you'll need several supplies, including antifreeze, oil, fuel stabilizer, fogging oil, corrosion protection, and more. Most of what you'll have to buy is reusable, and you can get boat winterization kits from a boat shop like Reeder Trausch Marine Indy.
Another factor in winterization is storage. If you plan to take your boat out during the cooler months, you may want to keep it docked. However, you'll need to store it somewhere if you don't. Storage options can vary from $50 to $500 per month.
DIY Winterization Costs VS. Professional Service
If you're wondering about DIY winterization vs paying a professional, there are a few things to consider. It depends on your boat, budget, and how much experience and/or comfort you have in doing maintenance things. Investing in professional service may cost more upfront, but you also gain the peace of mind of knowing that your boat is in experienced hands.
Some benefits of winterizing your boat include saving money and gaining experience on how to work on your boat. However, the process can be challenging and time-consuming. If you're inexperienced, you risk damaging your boat as well.
The benefits of hiring a professional include saving time and having the peace of mind that everything is done properly. The main drawback is additional cost, so you'll have to weigh the importance of saving time and effort, plus the peace of mind it brings.
How Important is Winterization?
If your boat is located in a place where the temperature drops below 40 degrees Fahrenheit in the cooler months, then winterizing is a must. Frozen liquid expands and can damage your boat, plus your boat's gel coating can become brittle and unstable when left out in freezing temperatures.
Mold and mildew can also collect inside your boat, as well as corroding metal and electrical components. Some boat hulls can even crack in cold weather. Many avoidable expenses can arise from not winterizing your boat. It's better to maintain and winterize your boat rather than pay significantly more to fix something that breaks.
Save time and effort when you winterize your boat with Reeder Trausch Marine Indy. With a wealth of experience and equipment on hand, Reeder Trausch Marine Indy is fully equipped to help you maintain and winterize your boat for the season.
