Utah winters are harsh on boats, especially those left outside without proper cleaning or protection. Most of the springtime damage we see doesn’t come from blizzards—it comes from skipped steps in fall. With the right cleaning routine, the right storage plan, and the right Utah winter boat covers, you can prevent mold, cracking, fading, and expensive repairs.
Here’s how to winterize your boat properly so it’s ready the moment the weather warms up.
CLEANING MISTAKES UTAH BOAT OWNERS MAKE EVERY YEAR
A quick wipe-down won’t protect your boat from a Utah winter. Dirt, sunscreen residue, hard water, and moisture trapped under a cover will turn into mildew and permanent staining over the next few months.
The most-missed areas:
- Under seat cushions
- Storage compartments
- Live wells
- The bilge
- Vinyl seams and stitching
- Under the engine hatch
Moisture + grime is the perfect recipe for mold. Once mildew sets into foam or vinyl, cleaning can only do so much.
If your upholstery is already struggling…
Winter is the ideal time to tackle repairs. At SugarHouse, our marine upholstery team handles everything from cushion replacements to complete interior refreshes—and winter is our slowest season, so turnaround is faster and easier. If you find moldy cushions or stained seating during your winter prep, this is the perfect time to drop them off.
STORAGE MISTAKES THAT LEAD TO EXPENSIVE SPRING REPAIRS
Even a spotless boat can suffer major winter damage if it’s stored incorrectly—especially in Utah, where temperatures swing dramatically.
Common issues we see:
- Storing on uneven ground (leading to hull stress)
- Forgetting to remove the drain plug
- Leaving compartments closed with trapped moisture
- Parking outdoors without airflow
- Storing under a cover that can’t handle snow loads
Indoor vs. Outdoor Storage in Utah
Indoor storage protects your boat from the elements, but it’s not always accessible or budget-friendly. If you need outdoor space, SugarHouse offers secure outdoor boat storage at our Midvale facility, making it easy to drop off your boat, request a cover, schedule upholstery work, and get everything done in one convenient spot.
COVER MISTAKES WE SEE EVERY WINTER (AND WHAT TO USE INSTEAD)
The cover you choose—and how it’s installed—directly determines how well your boat survives winter.
Most common cover problems:
- Using cheap tarps instead of real covers
- Letting snow pool, causing stretching and fabric failure
- No ventilation (which almost guarantees mildew)
- Wind lifting the cover and scratching gelcoat
- Covers that aren’t secured for Utah winter storms
Best Cover Types for Utah Winters
Tie-Down Covers
A secure option for long-term storage. They allow for support poles to prevent sagging and keep your boat protected from heavy snow and high winds.
Cinch Covers
A favorite among Utah boaters. These tighten around the hull for a snug, nearly custom fit and are built to handle snow accumulation. Breathable, durable, and ideal for outdoor winter storage.
If your current cover has stretched fabric, loose seams, or damage from past seasons, winter will only make it worse. Replacing it now protects your boat and avoids major repairs down the road.
PROTECT YOUR BOAT NOW, ENJOY A BETTER SPRING
Winter boat prep is more than a checklist—it’s an investment in your boat’s longevity. With the right cleaning routine, proper storage, and a winter-ready cover, you’ll avoid the costly damage we see every single spring in Utah.
And the best part? SugarHouse can help with every step:
- Marine upholstery repairs & replacements
- Custom tie-down and cinch boat covers
- Outdoor boat storage at our Midvale facility
- Full winter protection solutions
Winter Special: Free Spare Tire Cover
Right now, when you purchase $1,000+ in marine products, you’ll receive a FREE spare tire cover—a $140 value. Perfect for protecting your trailer all winter long.
View the details here: https://sugarhouse.us/specials/
Call 801-563-9600 or request a quote online. Our team can help you choose the right cover, schedule upholstery updates, or set up storage—all before the next storm rolls in.
SugarHouse Ind. has served its clients in the Intermountain West since 1941. In that time, we have become Utah’s largest provider of awning, boat tops, and specialty canvas covers. After over 80 years, our focus is still to provide customers with the highest quality products and the best prices. We remain a family-owned company, and we remain committed to putting a personal touch into everything we do. That’s why we make every product that we offer in our 30,000 ft2 facility in Midvale, Utah.