Outdoor Boat Storage in Lake Orion, MI: A Practical Guide for Pontiac Lake Boaters
For boat owners in Lake Orion, Michigan, the end of the boating season on Pontiac Lake brings a familiar question: where to store your vessel for the winter? While indoor storage offers maximum protection, outdoor boat storage remains a popular, cost-effective, and accessible option for many. Understanding the local climate and best practices is key to ensuring your boat emerges from storage ready for another season of fun on the water.
Lake Orion's distinct four-season climate, with its cold, snowy winters, makes proper preparation for outdoor storage non-negotiable. The primary enemies are moisture, freezing temperatures, and the weight of snow and ice. Your first and most critical step is a thorough winterization. This includes completely draining the engine's water systems to prevent freeze damage, stabilizing the fuel, and disconnecting the battery. For boats stored outdoors, paying extra attention to sealing any through-hull fittings and vents is crucial to keep out snowmelt and curious critters.
Choosing the right location for your outdoor boat storage in Lake Orion involves more than just finding an empty spot. Look for a facility with a solid, level surface, preferably gravel or pavement, to prevent sinking and moisture wicking. Good drainage is essential to avoid pooling water around the hull. Consider the exposure; a spot with some windbreak from buildings or trees can reduce snowdrift, but avoid areas directly under large trees that could drop branches. Many local storage yards offer services like shrink-wrapping, which is highly recommended. A professional, tight shrink-wrap job creates a waterproof barrier, protects against UV rays even in winter, and prevents snow load from accumulating in the cockpit.
Don't forget the cover and support system. A sturdy, well-fitted cover is your boat's main defense. Ensure it is supported by a quality frame or poles to create a steep pitch, allowing snow to slide off rather than collapse the cover. Regularly checking on your boat after heavy snowfalls to brush off accumulation is a wise habit. Finally, remove all valuables, electronics, and soft goods to prevent mildew and theft. By taking these proactive steps, you can confidently utilize outdoor storage, keeping your boat safe and secure until the ice melts on Pontiac Lake and it's time to launch once more.