How to Shrinkwrap a Boat

Proper storage of your boat during the winter months will increase its value and keep it looking great for many years. One of the best ways to protect your valuable boat during the off-season is to shrinkwrap it. This can be done by a professional for hundreds of dollars, or you can do it yourself in one afternoon.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Poly rope
• Roll of shrinkwrap
• Utility knife
• Heat gun

1. String a line of rope across the open areas of your boat from bow to stern. String several lines of rope across the width of your boat from starboard to port, crossing over the center rope. This creates a framework for the shrinkwrap to adhere to in areas where there is no shell.

2. Unroll the shrinkwrap from behind the boat and pull it over the top of the boat to the bow. Do not unfold the shrinkwrap until it is completely unrolled from back to front so that it is easier to handle.

3. Unfold the shrinkwrap from side to side until the entire boat is covered.

4. Use a utility knife to cut excess shrinkwrap away, leaving just enough to cover the boat to the waterline.

5. Use a heat gun blowing in a side to side motion from the bow to the stern of the boat to make the shrinkwrap tighten over the framework.

6. Make sure to carefully check for any holes especially around the windshield, seats, or corners and plug them with shrinkwrap patches heated to adhere to the cover.

Tips & Warnings

• Use care when heating shrinkwrap because it is flammable and can ignite. Always apply shrinkwrap in a large, well-ventilated area.

References

• Shrinkwrap Video

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