shrink wrapping

[neuroguy]

I have been paying hundreds of dollars each year to have my boat shrinkwrapped in the fall here in Maine. I have been wondering if shrink wrapping really provides more protection over time than simply throwing a good, waterproof tarp over the boat for the winter. Does anybody know if there is any evidence one way or the other? I'm sure everyone has an opinion, but any actual proof to back it up one way or the other? Thanks.

 

[natwales]

Re: shrink wrapping

I've always covered my boats with tarps, but this year I am going to shrink wrap for the first time. Disregarding money, I suspect that shrink wrapping is probably the best protection as long as it's well vented. <br /><br />Instead of spending $500 for the yard to do it I am going to rent a shrink wrap torch and propane tank and try to do it myself. With an initial investment of materials (which will last for several seasons) I think I can have my 24' boat wrapped up for less $80, but we'll see how it goes.<br /><br />www.dr-shrink.com is a good online resource, but many of the same materials were available locally for less and without shipping charges. Avoid places West Marine at all costs, they jack their prices way up.

 

[Laddies]

Re: shrink wrapping

We have good luck with tarps as long as you build a ridge pole out of saw horse brackets with enough pitch to shed the snow

 

[EZLoader]

Re: shrink wrapping

Boat manufacturers shrink wrap their boats at shipping to protect the new finishes from dirt and rain. It also acts to deter some theft and vandalism.<br /><br />I've read that shrink wrapping can also cause moisture problems for boats located in areas of high humidity. It can cause rust to appear on motor parts. In fact Mercruiser had to address this problem after Dealers complained new boat engines had rust. Mercruiser now requires boat manufacturers to take responsibility for the engine rust if it is caused by their shrink wrapping.<br /><br />In your northern location I would guess your winters are cold and dry. In that case the shrink wrap will work great but a tarp should work ok too.<br /><br />In my wet, damp, high humidity Northwest climate the only thing that really protects a boat (from dampness and interior mold) is getting it under some type of dry building cover (carport or garage) or making sure whatever cover you put on it has plenty of air to breath so moisture is removed.

 

[imported_bjs]

Re: shrink wrapping

plastic don't breath.so if there any dampness its going to mold and make rust ithink fiberglass need to breath as well as metal i think its a good investment.maybe someone can comment on this ask the experts