Free Advice

ENSURING PROPER CARE FOR MOORING BOAT COVERS

Mooring (also moorage) by definition, refers to any device used to hold secure an object by means of cables, anchors, or lines though most often it is specifically a device to which a boat can attach to so that it can remain in the same position. The boat is then moored.

A mooring is typically a heavy object located on the sea bed with a rope or cable going to the surface where a float makes it possible to pick it up from a boat. When a boat is moored, this is often the time for it’s general cleaning or yearly maintenance. It is usually the time when the engines are checked, the boat is inspected for leaks and cracks, the sail for any scratches or tears. A time for polishing off the boat. When boats are all cleaned up, it is advisable to mooring boats covered.

Mooring boat covers can be bought from the racks if the boat measurements follow a standard size. However, for custom made boats, manufacturers offer an option to purchase a boat cover that is specifically made to fit the size and dimensions of the custom made boat. An owner needs to provide the manufacturers with the exact size and dimensions. If a boat’s meaurements are specified in a brochure, one just has to provide these to the manufacturers. However, if no measurement is provided, a boat owner must take the measurements of the beam width (midddle and widest part of the boat) and the center length. It is advisable to use a non-elastic tape to hold one end othe measuring devise.

Mooring boat covers require minimal caring instructions. If taken cared of properly, one can extend the life of mooring boat covers to as much as twenty-five years. Boat covers are sold in varied colors and designs such as subdued colors like navy blue, brown, pink nad white and load colors such as pink, violet, orange and purple. However, most manufacturers advise getting the ones in darker colors as these tend to last longer than the one in paler hues. The following are care tips for boat covers.

1. To delay the need for deep or thorough scrubbing, one needs to hose fabrics off on a monthly basis with clear water. This will help avoid the dirt from becoming deeply imbeded in the fabric and eliminate the need for more frequent costly and vigorous cleanings. In most instances, a thorough cleaning will be needed every two to three years.

2. When it’s time for a thorough cleaning, boat covers can be cleaned while still on a boat or, if the size permits, they can be removed for cleaning in a washing machine or dockside.

3. When cleaning boat covers, it is important to observe the following:
· Always use a mild soap such as Ivory Snow, Dreft or Woolite.
· Water should be cold to lukewarm. Never more than 100 degrees F.
· Air dry only. Never apply heat to sail boat covers.

General or Light Cleaning

To clean sail boat covers while still on a boat, follow these simple steps:
· Brush off loose dirt.
· Hose down the cloth.
· Prepare a cleaning solution of water and mild soap such as Ivory Snow, Dreft or Woolite. Never use detergents as the materials tend to be too harsh.
· Use a soft bristle brush to clean the fabric. Hard bristled will only weaken the fibers.
· Allow cleaning solution to soak into the fabric.
· Rinse thoroughly.
· Air dry only. Never spin dry.
· May not require retreatment depending on the age of the fabric.
If stubborn stains persist, you can use a diluted chlorine bleach or soap mixture for spot cleaning of mildew, roof run-off or other similar stains. However, this may result in fading of colors and thinning of the fabric if used regularly.

Source: http://www.bloggedadvice.com