Boat Storage - Do you use a dessicant?

[generator12]

Hi all!

I've got her all wrapped up for winter - canvas cover with a tarp over it. I'm thinking ahead to spring (or whatever passes for it in Wisconsin) and of the possibility of moisture under the cover(s).

Yes, there is some air movement but the temperatures can really swing in this area and I'm thinking about mold or mildew when I uncover her.

Does anyone have experience with a dessicant during layup? (i.e., silica gel, some clay products, etc.) Did it have a positive impact? If so, where did you get it and how costly was it?

Thanks guys/gals.

 

[superbenk]

Re: Boat Storage - Do you use a dessicant?

I tried a couple of those under the cover a couple years ago & really didn't find the did a whole lot. My boat doesn't have any enclosed cabins or anything, so maybe it's too open a space for them to be effective. These are the buckets with the silica gel in them. They're reusable so I keep putting them back in the boat under the back seats around the engine dog house & in the ski locker (which is vented anyhow) just because I have them.

 

[Pirate_40]

Re: Boat Storage - Do you use a dessicant?

These products are nothing more than calcium chloride. I used to buy starbright or mary kate. I kept the little buckets and baskets and would refill them with the same 50lb bag of calcium I use to snow melt the driveway. The baskets are long gone so I do this now.

Poor mans moisture control.-------> a few scoops of calcium in the feet of an old pair of pantyhose. Tie a knot. Push a stick through the knot. Hang the hose over a small bucket or a kids sand pail.

 

[Brewman61]

Re: Boat Storage - Do you use a dessicant?

I store my boat in similar climate than you- Minnesota, outdoors all year.
So far I've not had any issues with moisture when I open up for the season.
I won't hurt to use a dessicant, just not sure in my case that it's necessary.