Your boat needs protection from the ravages of weather, overland travel, dirt and debris, and UV radiation. Shrink-wrapping is one solution, but it typically comes at an annual expense (and is not an inexpensive one).
Consider alternatives before taking advantage of the benefits shrink wrapping offers. More cost-effective solutions may be available, depending on your situation. Boat tarps or covered storage options are just two of the many possibilities for boat storage.
But what exactly is shrink-wrapping? And what are the alternatives? What other conditions tilt the decision to one option over another? Read on, and we’ll uncover the vagaries and vicissitudes of the shrink-wrap decision.
Understanding Boat Shrink Wrapping
Shrinkwrapping boats entails covering almost the entire boat — at least slightly below the rub rail (or further down the hull) — with a single sheet of plastic film that, when heated, shrinks to conform tightly to the boat’s contours.
This process provides a taut, impermeable cover for the boat, shielding it from the harmful effects of weather and UV damage. It’s like heat-shrink insulation for electrical wire—but on a much larger scale.
Boats are usually shrink-wrapped for protection:
- During the colder winter months (the time of year when pleasure boats are usually stored out of the water).
- When they are being transported overland
The most commonly used boat shrink-wrap material is low-density polyethylene (LDPE). Available in rolls of varying lengths and widths, depending on the boat’s dimensions, LDPE is renowned for its durability and protective qualities.
The Shrink Wrapping Process
NOTE: If the boat will be exposed to freezing temperatures, you must “winterize” the engine(s) and plumbing before the shrinkwrapping process begins.
Most boating experts agree that shrink wrapping, although plausibly a DIY project, is usually best left to professionals. The difficulty, especially for the DIYer, increases with the size of the boat.
The basic process (not the details) is:
Step #1: Build a Support Grid Made of Poles (Usually 2x4s) and Webbed Strapping
Place the poles at approximately 4’ intervals along the bow-to-stern centerline. Then, attach the strapping to the pole tops, which should run perpendicularly to the rub rail to form a support grid.
The tops of the poles should be higher than the surrounding areas, and the strapping should outline “rectangular-ish” areas.
Step #2: Cut the Shrink Wrap
Cut the correct length of film from the roll, then unfold it and drape it over the grid.
Step #3: Bring Out the Heat Gun
Put on protective gloves and, using a propane-fired heat gun, construct a tunnel-like “hem” in the film, which contains a small diameter line (¼”) all the way around the hull at the height where the wrap should end.
Step #4: Pull the Drawstring Tight
Make several folds of the loose film back over on itself (from top to bottom), and seal the edges with shrink-wrap tape.
- Use the propane heater to heat areas of the film until they shrink.
- After the vessel is covered, Install vents and zippered doors or hatches as needed.
Benefits of Boat Shrink Wrapping
Protection from Harsh Weather and UV Rays
The excellent protection against harsh weather conditions during winter storage is one of shrinkwrapping’s glowing benefits. The tight fit and impermeable material keeps rain, snow, ice, and wind outside of your boat.
This level of protection is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your boat’s structure and minimizing damage.
A shrink-wrapped boat also means superior UV protection compared to a traditional boat cover, which can help prevent long-term sun damage and fading of the boat’s finish.
Custom Fit and Secure Seal
Shrink wrapping a boat offers a custom fit and secure seal. Minimizing “low spots” in which rainwater or snow can collect is easier than with fabric or tarp covers.
Potential Drawbacks of Boat Shrink Wrapping
Despite the benefits, there are downside risks to shrink-wrapping your boat. The primary concern is usually the relative cost vs other protective measures.
Cost of Shrink Wrapping
Costs of shrink wrapping will vary greatly depending on the size and type of boat and its location. Average costs range from $8 to $25 (or more) per foot. Additional costs may apply for special configurations or installation of hatches and vents.
If you decide to undertake a DIY shrink-wrapping project, realize that you’ll need to secure the necessary tools, equipment, and materials.
When DIYing, expect to spend at least $900 – $1000.
Materials alone can cost $300-$400 for a 30’ boat. At this cost, choosing the DIY route may be difficult to justify. Because of the upfront costs, consider a professional boat shrink-wrapping service.
Risks of Shrink Wrapping
Even with a professional service, there’s a risk of damage because of improper installation. During a DIY project, that risk is only magnified. There are several unpleasant side effects your risk depending on what went wrong during the installation:
Damage
With a painted boat’s finish, improper shrink wrapping can be damaging. Although most boats are protected with an exterior of “gel coat”, some boats are painted, often with a linear polyurethane paint like AwlGrip or Imron®. In this case, shrink wrapping is usually not recommended for this type of paint.
If your boat is painted, check whether the paint manufacturer recommends against shrink-wrapping
The boat’s exterior finish can be damaged If the installer applies too much heat. These damages may not be “uncovered” until the beginning of the next boating season.
Mold and mildew
If adequate ventilation is not achieved using properly-installed vents, mold and mildew can be a risk factor.
Alternatives to Shrink Wrapping
As with many boating-related decisions, you’ll need to conduct a cost comparison between alternatives. In other words, what are the cost differences between shrink wrapping and paying monthly rent on indoor storage space, for example?
Note that, usually, shrink wrapping usually is performed annually in preparation for winter storage, so it’s considered a recurring cost.
Indoor Storage
Indoor storage, the most secure option for boat protection, is another recurring cost. The primary benefit of indoor storage is that the boat is not exposed to the elements. Confirm that the facility is heated; if not, winterize the engines and the plumbing.
Indoor storage also provides better physical security.
However, indoor storage will be pricier than other alternatives. Costs will vary significantly depending on the locality, the security, and the customer service level. Request detailed pricing information from several facilities before making your decision.
Roughly estimated, you can expect to pay $50/per foot of your boat for indoor or covered boat storage.
Canvas Covers
A canvas cover is considered a one-time cost. It can be used for year-round protection and tends to last longer than the typical length of boat ownership.
A custom cover, which may cost around $1500, is often available to fit specific boat makes and models.
Others are “semi-custom,” made to fit all boats of similar designs and dimensions, typically costing a few hundred dollars. A canvas cover ordinarily has lower long-term costs than shrink wrap but offers less protection.
Determining Whether Boat Shrink Wrapping is Right for You
If you have a large boat (e.g., one that is too large to trailer), and it’s kept outdoors in severe weather, your decision should be biased toward either shrink wrapping or indoor storage. If your boat is too large for indoor storage at a reasonable price, then you should lean toward shrink wrapping. If you have a smaller boat, all the options are open.
Ultimately, the decision to shrink-wrap your boat depends on how much you’re willing to pay for the protection you need. You’ll also want to account for these other factors:
- Your boat’s size
- Its storage location
- Expected effects of wind, rain, and snow and the level of protection you will accept
- Cost compared to alternatives
Summary
When evaluating the level of protection your boat needs, check out Neighbor, a peer-to-peer self-storage marketplace where you can find convenient and nearby boat storage options for safe winter storage. Whether you plan to opt for more affordable outdoor boat storage or invest in a luxury indoor storage space, Neighbor has what you’re looking for.
