Tips to Share with your Clients: Winter Tarp Guidelines

Winter is almost here and temperatures are steadily dropping. If your clients are planning on storing their boat throughout the cold winter months, pass these tarp tactics along to them to reduce Marina Liability.

Mind Sharp Edges- Sharp corners can puncture holes in tarps allowing in moisture and even pesky creatures while in storage. To prevent this, protect the sharp edges with old rags or carpet fragments and secure with duct tape prior to putting on the tarp. Common problem areas include antenna mounts, windshield frame corners, burgee poles, and rocket launchers, according to Boating Magazine.

Easy Access- While attaching the tarp underneath the boat is still effective, it may prove difficult to access anything inside should your clients choose to do any winter projects. Experts recommend filling jugs of sand and attaching them to the grommets in the tarp to allow for easy access to the boat while in storage. Simply remove the jugs and replace when finished.

Elevate Low Spots- A low placed tarp has a greater chance of collecting water, sagging, or ripping over the duration of winter. While there is no shortage of makeshift ideas to prop up the tarp, the best bet is to place an item like a stepladder inside the low portions of the boat to create a more even surface with the tarp. However, if there are sharp edges, ensure they are covered properly.

Extras- Keeping a battery powered radio on a talk station will help to discourage animals from creeping into the vessel during the winter. Further, consider using a soft cotton shirt to protect cowling under the flapping of the tarp.

At Merrimac Marine Insurance, LLC, we understand the unique risks that marinas face. We work with more than 15 top-tier admitted and non-admitted carriers to secure the coverages that specifically address the various exposures recreational marine insurance customers face. For more information about our products, contact us today at (888) 344-1687.