{"id":44975,"date":"2026-07-20T23:16:39","date_gmt":"2026-07-20T21:16:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ribsonly.com\/2\/?page_id=44975"},"modified":"2026-08-06T14:09:57","modified_gmt":"2026-08-06T12:09:57","slug":"rib-winter-storage-guide","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/ribsonly.com\/2\/rib-winter-storage-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"RIB Winter Storage Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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When moored outdoors in winter use a durable cover for UV and dirt protection – \u00a9 Ren\u00e9 Haar<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Regular Maintenance Extends Equipment Life<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Winter storage is the single biggest factor in how well a RIB ages between seasons. A boat properly prepared for winter storage emerges in spring ready to launch. A neglected one often needs unexpected repairs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This guide walks through the complete winter storage process, covering hull, tubes, engine and trailer, in the order that actually matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why Winter Storage Deserves Real Attention<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cold temperatures, damp conditions and months of inactivity all stress a boat in ways summer use doesn’t. Proper winter storage isn’t about doing more work; it’s about doing the right work before the boat sits idle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 1: Clean Everything Thoroughly First<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Never store a RIB dirty. Salt residue, algae and grime left on tubes or hull over winter cause far more damage than the same dirt would during active use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wash the hull, tubes and deck thoroughly, using appropriate cleaners for each surface. Our detailed routine for tubes specifically is covered in How to Clean and Protect RIB Tubes<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 2: Inspect Before You Store<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Winter storage is the ideal moment to catch small problems before they worsen unseen for months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check tubes for early signs of wear, following the indicators covered in How Long Do RIB Tubes Last?<\/a>. Address any minor punctures now, using guidance from Common RIB Tube Problems and Repairs<\/a>, rather than discovering them again in spring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 3: Prepare the Engine<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Outboard engines need specific winterisation to avoid damage from freezing or fuel degradation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n