Protect Your RVs and Boats This Fall with Covered Parking Storage

As the colder months approach, it’s time to think about preparing your recreational vehicles for the winter. Whether you own a boat, RV, or other recreational vehicle, finding a secure storage solution is essential to protecting your investment during the off-season. At Make Space Storage, we offer convenient, fully fenced, and secure facilities with covered parking, at many of our locations across Canada, providing you with peace of mind and protection from the elements all winter long.

Why Choose Covered Parking for Fall Storage?

Covered parking offers an ideal solution for keeping your boats, RVs, and other vehicles safe and well-maintained over the winter. Here are a few key benefits:

Protection from the Elements: Covered parking shields your vehicles from harsh weather conditions like rain, snow, and frost. By keeping your vehicle under a shelter, you can prevent damage from moisture, ice buildup, and fading due to exposure to UV rays. This is especially important for RVs and boats with sensitive exteriors that can deteriorate over time if left unprotected.

Security and Peace of Mind: Our covered parking storage is located in fully fenced, gated storage facilities with 24/7 monitoring. You’ll have secure access to your vehicle when you need it, knowing that it’s being stored in a well-maintained and safe environment. Whether you need occasional access during the winter or plan to leave your vehicle untouched until spring, you can count on our gated facility to keep it secure.

More Space at Home: Parking large vehicles like boats and RVs in your driveway or on your property can take up valuable space. By using covered parking at Make Space Storage, you’ll free up space around your home and avoid potential HOA violations while ensuring that your vehicle is well-protected.

But before you tuck your boat or RV away for the season, here’s a list of the top 10 things you need to do to ensure it is prepped and ready for long-term storage.

Top 10 Tips for Storing Your Boat or RV for Winter with Covered Parking

1. Clean Inside and Out

Before putting your RV or boat into storage, give it a thorough cleaning. For RVs, this includes vacuuming, dusting, and removing food and personal items. Boats should be scrubbed down, and any algae or barnacles should be removed from the hull. This prevents mould, mildew, and critters from becoming an issue during storage.

2. Drain Water Systems

Freezing temperatures can cause water in your boat or RV’s pipes to expand and burst. Drain all water tanks, including fresh water, black, and grey water tanks. Be sure to also clear out any water from the boat’s engine, live wells, and bilge areas to avoid damage over the winter.

3. Protect Against Pests

Seal all entry points to prevent mice, insects, and other pests from getting into your boat or RV. Use mothballs or rodent repellents to keep critters away, and check vents and windows for any gaps that may need sealing.

4. Check the Battery

To preserve the life of your battery, remove it and store it in a cool, dry place. If your boat or RV will be stored for several months, it’s also a good idea to periodically charge the battery or use a trickle charger to keep it in good condition.

5. Change Fluids and Top Off Tanks

For boats, change the oil, antifreeze, and other fluids to prevent corrosion during storage. RV owners should also ensure that all fluid levels are topped off, including coolant, transmission fluid, and oil. For both vehicles, it’s essential to top off the fuel tank and add a fuel stabilizer to prevent condensation buildup.

6. Cover or Plug Vents and Exhaust

Seal or cover all vents, exhaust pipes, and air intakes on your boat or RV to protect them from moisture, dirt, and pests. This will prevent blockages and ensure your vehicle is in good condition when you’re ready to use it again.

7. Check Tires and Inflate Them

Inflate your tires to the recommended pressure before storage. This prevents flat spots from forming on the tires during long periods of inactivity. You can also move the vehicle slightly every few months to redistribute the weight and prevent permanent flat spots.

8. Remove Valuables

It’s always a good idea to remove any valuable items from your boat or RV before storing it. Electronics, outdoor gear, and other personal belongings should be taken home to avoid theft or damage while in storage.

9. Use a Quality Cover

A high-quality, weather-resistant cover is recommended to protect your boat or RV from dust, moisture, and UV damage. Make sure the cover fits properly and is securely fastened, especially if your vehicle is stored outdoors, as high winds can cause damage.

10. Check Your Insurance Coverage

Even if your vehicle is stored in a secure, gated facility, it’s important to make sure your insurance policy is up to date and covers your boat or RV during the off-season. Double-check the details of your policy and adjust as needed.

Preparing for a Quick and Easy Spring Retrieval

While it’s important to ensure your boat or RV is properly stored for winter, it’s also helpful to think ahead about how to make the process of getting your vehicle ready for use in the spring as smooth as possible. Here are a few additional steps to take before storing your vehicle this fall:

Label or Organize Gear: If you store accessories or tools inside your boat or RV, consider organizing or labelling them so that they are easy to find when you take your vehicle out in the spring.

Inspect for Repairs: Before you store your vehicle, do a quick inspection to note any needed repairs. Tackling minor fixes now means you can start the season off without any unexpected surprises.

Plan for Regular Checkups: If possible, check in on your boat or RV periodically during the off-season to make sure everything is still in good shape. Doing so will help prevent any small issues from becoming bigger problems by spring.
By prepping for an easy retrieval now, you’ll be able to hit the water or road as soon as the warmer weather returns.

Why Choose Make Space Storage for Covered Parking?

At Make Space Storage, our covered parking spaces provide the perfect winter storage solution for your boat or RV. Our gated facilities offer secure access, protecting your vehicles from the harsh winter elements while keeping them safe. Whether you’re storing a small fishing boat or a large RV, we’ve got the space and security features to give you peace of mind throughout the off-season.

Ready to find safe, secure, and affordable covered parking storage? Check out our list of locations across Canada to find the perfect spot near you. With locations across Canada, it's easy to find a nearby facility that fits your needs. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact us—we're here to help. Ready to reserve your spot? You can conveniently book covered parking online today and ensure your vehicle is protected all season long!