Cost against protection
Indoor vs outdoor boat storage
Outdoor storage with a good wrap gets most boats through a Canadian winter. Indoor storage costs more and spares you the wrap, the UV and the snow load. Here is how to choose.
Side by side
| Outdoor on the hard | Indoor, cold | Indoor, heated | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting price | from $30/ft | from $55/ft | from $90/ft |
| Shrink-wrap | Needed, from $16/ft | Usually not | Not needed |
| Snow and ice | Wrap sheds snow; check after storms | Protected | Protected |
| UV and weather | Covered by wrap | Protected | Protected |
| Freeze risk | Full winterizing | Full winterizing | Lower, ask the yard |
| Winter access | Varies | Often limited | Often allowed, good for projects |
Pick indoor if
The boat is new or high-value
Gelcoat, upholstery and canvas last longer out of the sun and freeze-thaw.
It is a classic wooden boat
Out of the weather, in a building that is not bone-dry. See wooden boat storage.
You want winter projects
Heated space lets you varnish, paint or do engine work in February.
Outdoor is fine if
Fibreglass boat in good shape
A tight, vented wrap and a yard that checks after storms is enough for most boats.
It lives on a trailer
Trailer lots are the cheapest option and easy in spring.
You want to save
Outdoor plus wrap usually still costs less than indoor.
Questions
Does indoor storage mean the boat is safe from mice?
No. Mice get into buildings too. Remove food and cushions and use deterrents in either case.
Tell us about your boat. We find the spot.
Storage type, LOA, region and season. We check what is open near you and reply by email with options and prices.