Tips For Building a Boat Shelter in Your Yard

Owning a boat can be a satisfying experience as it allows for enjoyment and relaxation on the water. But ownership also comes with responsibilities such as safety precautions and maintenance. This includes using a boat shelter toprotect the vessel from the elements, helping to prolong its life and prevent damage.

So, how do you go about building a boat shelter in your property? Here are several things to consider:

Planning

Before you start any construction, it is essential to plan the project carefully. This includes determining the design and size of the shelter, choosing the right materials, procuring any necessary permits or approvals, etc.

Get materials such as lumber, roofing materials, siding, and any other necessary materials before beginning construction. Also,make sure that the proposed location of the shelter complies with local zoning laws and building codes. 

Site Preparation

Make sure that your property is prepared for the construction of your boat shelter, and that it will be built on a stable and secure foundation.  Pick a location for your shelter that is level, stable, and has proper drainage. Avoid building in low-lying areas that are prone to flooding. It is also better to choose a location that is easily accessible for launching and retrieving the boat. 

Prepare the ground by removing any debris, rocks, or other obstacles. Level the ground and compact it to ensure that it is stable enough to support the structure. In addition, have a professional survey the land to determine the boundaries of your property and to identify any potential hazards or issues, such as drainage issues or underground utilities.

Foundation

A solid foundation is vital for the stability of ashelter. As with any other structure, a boat shelter needs a solid foundation to support the weight of the shelter itself and the boat, and to withstand the forces of nature such as rain, wind, snow, and ground movement. Without a proper foundation, your shelter can become unstable and may not be able to provide adequate protection for your boat.

A concrete slab foundation is a common and cost-effective option for boat shelters. This involves pouring a concrete slab about 4 inches thick and reinforcing it with steel rebar.

Another option is usinga pier and beam foundation, which involves building a series of piers and beams to support the shelter. This foundation is suitable for areas with high water tables or poor soil conditions.

Framing

The framing of the shelter for your boat is the backbone of the structure, providing the structural support for the shelter and helping to hold everything together. The framing determines the overall durability, strength, and stability of the shelter.

The type of framing materials and design will depend on the size and style of your shelter, the climate of the area, as well as the local building codes. Some common framing materials used for boat shelters include pressure-treated lumber, steel, and aluminum. 

Your framing should also be designed to accommodate any roofing, siding, and ventilation systems that will be installed.

Siding

The siding of a boat shelter will protect the shelter from sun and wind and helps to keep the interior of the shelter dry and ventilated. Siding also increases the overall aesthetic appearance of the shelter and helps to blend it with the surrounding environment.

There are a few types of siding materials that can be used for a boat shelter, such as:

• Vinyl siding.It is a popular and cost-effective option for siding. It is easy to install, durable, and maintenance-free.
• Metal siding.It is strong, durable, and long-lasting, as well as resistant to fire, mold, and insects, making it a good option for shelters that will be exposed to harsh weather conditions.
• Wood siding. Wood siding, such as redwood or cedar, is a natural and durable option that can be stained or painted to match the surrounding environment.
• Fiber cement siding.It is strong, durable, and long-lasting. It is also fire-resistant, rot-proof and termite-resistant, which makes it a good option for shelters that will be exposed to harsh weather conditions.

Roofing

The roof of your shelter will protect the boat from rain, snow, and other elements. It also helps keep the shelter dry and ventilated and contributes to the overall structural integrity of the shelter. the common types of roofing materials for boat shelters are shingles, metal, tarp, and polycarbonate.

When selecting a roofing material for your shelter, consider the local climate and weather conditions, as well as the style and size of the shelter. The roofing material should be durable, water-resistant, and easy to maintain.

Properly installing and maintaining the roofing is also essential to ensure the safety and longevity of the shelter. This includes monitoring the roofing for any signs of leaks or damage and making repairs as necessary.

Ventilation

Without proper ventilation, your shelter can become damp, and your boat can be damaged by mold and mildew. Proper ventilation is especially important in climates that are humid or have a lot of rain, as the moisture can easily build up inside the shelter, which can damage the boat and the shelter itself.

There are several ways to provide ventilation inside your boat shelter, including:

• Vents. These can be installed in the walls or roof of the shelter to allow for air flow. 
• Windows.They provide natural light and ventilation to the shelter. These windows can be opened or closed depending on the weather conditions.
• Dehumidifiers.They remove excess moisture from the air inside the shelter, helping to prevent mold and mildew buildup.

Electrical and Plumbing

You can install electrical and plumbing systems in your boat shelter to provide lighting, heating, cooling and other amenities that can make the shelter more comfortable and functional. The plumbing system can provide running water, a sink, and a shower. This can be useful if you use the shelter for changing clothes or for cleaning the boat. It is important to hire a licensed electrician or a licensed plumber to install the systems and to ensure they are up to code.

In addition, consider the location of the shelter, and whether it will have access to a water and power supply, and whether it will have a septic system or be connected to the sewer system of the city.

Keep in mind that building a boat shelter can be a complex project, so it may be best to hire a professional contractor, particularly if you have no necessary skills or experience. This will ensure that your shelter is installed properly and is safe to use.