...Boat storage choices range from budget-friendly units made of vinyl to fully enclosed garages…
Easy Build Structures
A partially enclosed car port-style unit is just one option to effectively store your boat.
Words by Steve Fennell
Purchasing a dry boat storage unit for your property may not be your first thought during the height of summer. However, given the constant warm temperatures from June to early September and the often harsh winters, it should be at least a consideration.
Whether you have just taken delivery of a shiny new wakeboard boat or have an existing model that you and your family enjoy every season, it’s important to understand that a dry boat storage unit is not just for winterizing your boat. It can protect it all year with many other benefits.
There are a number of designs available and range from budget-friendly units made of vinyl or canvas and partially enclosed carports to fully enclosed garages for the ultimate protection. Either way, having your boat properly sheltered can add longevity and even provide quick, easy access for when you want to hit the water.
Perry Mack
Fully enclosed Garage Structures from easy Build Structures feature 20-gauge furring channel strapping for the roof and sidewalls, along with 26-gauge rolled sheet metal and flashings.
Although canvas storage solutions are effective at a reasonable cost, opting for a steel structure - whether partially or fully enclosed - is a viable choice if it’s within your budget and you’re serious about protecting your investment.
“One of the goals of keeping a boat in or under any structure is to protect it from the weather,” says Clayton Mickey, the owner of Easy Build Structures based in Surrey, BC, which offers a variety of steel units for commercial and recreational applications. “In the winter, there’s rain, snow, and debris and in the summer there are the UV rays. They all take a toll on a boat. Having roof coverage or even partial sides will increase its longevity and value.”
Some of the benefits of Easy Build’s storage structures include its prefabricated 5 x 8 cm or 5 x 10 cm (2 x 3 in or 2 x 4 in) galvanized tubular steel VersaTube framing system, patented slip-fit technology, and heavy-gauge sheet metal and materials.
Perry Mack
Structures are also available up to 15 m (50 ft) wide to store a variety of boats, RVs, motorsport vehicles and more.
For example, its fully enclosed Garage Structures feature 20-gauge furring channel strapping for the roof and sidewalls, along with 26-gauge rolled sheet metal and flashings. The company also offers its Grand Car Port designs, which include 26-gauge rolled sheet metal, as well the option of roof covering and/or partially or fully enclosed sides. All of the required hardware (e.g. caulking, screws, and anchors) are included.
They are also straightforward to assemble if you’re a handy DIY’er and can be relocated and reassembled if needed with little to no material loss. Structures are available up to 15 m (50 ft) wide to accommodate a variety of boats, RVs, motorsport vehicles and more.
“As we offer many storage shelters for boats, once a customer gets to the point of a fully enclosed design, they can add pedestrian doors, windows, insulation, plumbing, and electrical. Some of our clients finish the interior with drywall, fixtures and in some cases, residential suites. There are many options available depending on their end goal.”
For information about Easy Build Structures and options available visit www.easybuildstructures.ca and www.suncruisermedia.com/suncruiser/gear/easy-build-structure/