Owning a wooden boat? It’s not just a hobby—it’s a passion. And with passion comes responsibility. At Tahoe Runabout Co., we know that keeping your wooden boat in top shape takes more than just a quick clean-up before winter hits. It requires attention, expertise, and, most of all, knowing when to act. So, what does it really take to protect your boat?
Wood breathes. It expands. It contracts. And without the right maintenance, those tiny cracks? They become big, costly problems. Whether you’re cruising Lake Tahoe in summer or storing your boat through the winter months, seasonal upkeep is crucial. Missing a single maintenance task can lead to major issues. Let’s break it down.
Don’t Skip the Hull Inspection
The hull is your boat’s backbone. One small crack—one tiny soft spot—and the whole vessel is at risk. Each season, you need to get up close. Look at every plank, every inch. See a crack? It needs attention. At Tahoe Runabout Co., we’ve seen what happens when those cracks are ignored. Water gets in. Rot starts. Winter comes, the water freezes, and you’re left with a serious repair bill. The solution? Fix small problems before they become massive headaches.
Varnish: Your Best Friend
The varnish is more than just a pretty finish. It’s protection. It keeps water out and shields your boat from the sun’s harsh UV rays. But that layer of varnish? It doesn’t last forever. Depending on your boat’s exposure to the elements and usage, varnish typically needs to be reapplied every 2-3 years. Boats exposed to harsher conditions may need annual maintenance to keep the wood safe. If the varnish looks dull or worn, it’s time for a fresh coat. At Tahoe Runabout Co., we apply varnish with precision, ensuring every inch of your boat is covered, protecting it from the elements.
Winterizing Your Boat: More Than Just a Cover
Winter is brutal on wooden boats. The freezing temperatures, the snow, the ice—it all adds up. Winterizing your boat isn’t just throwing a cover on and calling it good. You need to drain every drop of water. Clean every surface. And make sure the boat is properly ventilated. Moisture is your enemy during the cold months. Trap it, and mold will take over. Want your boat to last? Keep it dry and keep it aired out. Tahoe Runabout Co. can help you winterize properly, ensuring your boat survives the off-season in perfect shape.
Replacements Are Inevitable—But Don’t Worry
No one wants to hear it, but sometimes, wood needs to be replaced. The bottom of your boat takes the brunt of the lake’s wear and tear. You can patch it for a while, but eventually, replacement is necessary. At Tahoe Runabout Co., we use only the finest materials, matching the wood perfectly so your boat looks as good as new. Whether it’s a small repair or a full replacement, we’ve got you covered.
Detailing for Perfection
A clean boat isn’t just about looks. Dirt, salt, and debris can damage the finish, leaving your boat exposed to the elements. Regular detailing not only keeps it looking fresh but protects the paint and varnish. And who doesn’t want to turn heads as they cruise the lake? Our detailing services ensure your boat always shines on the water.
Tahoe Runabout Co. – Your Wooden Boat Experts
Maintaining a wooden boat isn’t easy, but with the right care, it can last for generations. At Tahoe Runabout Co., we specialize in wooden boat restoration and seasonal maintenance, keeping your vessel in prime condition no matter the time of year. Ready to protect your boat? Contact us today for a full inspection or varnish reapplication. Why wait until spring to discover a problem? Let’s keep your boat in perfect condition now, so you can enjoy smooth sailing later.