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How to store your Hornbeck

How you store your boat is key to it's longevity. UV exposure along the hull and moisture on the wood are a boats biggest enemies. A boat should be stored upside down, off the ground, with its weight evenly distributed; ideally inside.

This can be accomplished in many ways.
 

Inside Storage

Hornbeck boat hanging from the ceiling

Suspended

Use a pulley system with a high ceiling, or simply suspend your boat with loops of rope to get it up and out of the way.

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Bike Hook

If you have a high ceiling with exposed rafters, simply install a rubber coated bike/utility hook and hang it from the thwart or wooden deck.

Hornbeck boat on brace coming out of the wall

L-Brackets

Make sure that the brackets  are spaced evenly to distribute the weight of the boat. Also make sure the support arm is long enough so that the boat will not accidentally slide off the ends.

Hornbeck boat sitting on saw horses

Saw horses

A simple set of saw horses is enough to keep it off the ground with good ventilation.

If storing outside, place in a shaded spot and cover with a thick, durable tarp that is

loosely tied down, protecting the boat, yet allowing for some air flow. It is best to tie the

boat and the tarp down independently to protect from gusts. Again, keep the boat off

the ground and if storing in a snowy area, regularly remove snow to prevent

damage from excessive weight.

outside Storage

boat rack

boat rack

A self standing rack is great for outdoor storage.

boat rack with tarp

covered with a tarp

This is the most ideal outdoor setup. A tarp  keeps the sun and weather off in such a way that still allows air flow. If the tarp is touching the hull, water spots can appear. The steep angle also prevents snow build up

 

Remember to strap your boat down. Wind can throw your boat across the lawn.

boat rack on wall

Shaded side of a building

The least ideal option but still better than being left out.

 

Consider getting a fabric boat cover

Keep your boat safe

Deter theft by storing inside if possible. If you must store your boat outside, keep it hidden, covered, and secured with a sturdy cable lock. 

Check out this page for more details on preventing theft of your boat

The Suspenz TieYak® Universal Kayak & Canoe Locking Cables
are available at our store

suspenz_cable_lock
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