Every boat owner knows that a boat cover is one of the best investments they can make in the longevity of their boat. But a cover can only protect your boat the way it’s meant to if it’s used properly.
That’s why we've developed this guide to help you avoid the most common mistakes that boat cover owners make - because at Westland, we’ve gotcha covered!™
Choosing the Wrong Cover
The most common mistake that’s made is purchasing a cover that doesn’t fit your boat well. A boat cover should fit your vessel like a glove. If your cover isn’t tailor-made for your boat you’ll encounter areas that are too tight or too loose, which can lead to serious cover damage and a lack of real protection for your boat.
At Westland, we’re committed to making sure that you get the best-fitting cover for your boat. That’s why we offer two fit options - Exact Fit® and Select Fit® - so that you can find the most precisely designed cover for your boat.
Find the right cover for your boat:
Improper Tightening / Installation
A loose-fitting cover can cause a plethora of problems. In some cases, you might have the right cover but not have it properly installed or cinched, leaving slack in the fabric. To reduce slack, check that your cover is properly oriented on the boat and consider adding a tie down system for a tighter fit.
Water Pooling
Allowing water to pool is one of the quickest ways to damage your boat cover. Water pooling is often caused by ill-fitting covers and a lack of support which creates pockets where water can collect. Not only does the weight of the collected water cause unnecessary strain on the cover’s fabric, it also creates a moist environment which can breed mold and mildew.
Of course, choosing a boat cover that fits properly is the best thing you can do to prevent water pooling, but you can also reinforce your cover with a boat cover support system. Support poles can be used to create high points , ensuring that water is always running off. The Hangtyte™ suspension system, on the other hand, is a great option for boats with wakeboard towers.
Lack of Ventilation
Breathability is one of the most often overlooked aspects when covering boats. You might think that you want an airtight seal, but some ventilation is necessary to keep air flowing and prevent moisture and mildew buildup. To ensure proper ventilation, Westland installs two sewn-in vents in each boat cover. Additionally, you can choose to use vented support poles for your boat cover support system to add even more ventilation.
Improper Maintenance
Proper maintenance is the key to ensuring a long life for your boat cover. From regular cleanings and stain removal to repairing rips and deep cleaning when needed, it's important to give you cover the care it needs.
In general, you’ll want to perform monthly cleanings with a mild soap solution to remove any dirt or debris. If the fabric becomes heavily soiled, a deep cleaning may be necessary in addition to regular maintenance.
Doubling Up
Using multiple covers may seem like an easy way to add extra protection for your boat, but doubling your boat cover can actually do more harm than good. For starters, the friction caused by the two covers rubbing against one another during windy and stormy days can cause both covers to wear out more quickly than if a single cover was used.
Additionally, by adding an extra layer the breathability of your cover is significantly reduced. This lack of airflow leads to moisture and heat buildup between the layers where mold and mildew can thrive.
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