Which states watercraft receive the most freeze damage?
The answer from Boat US . . .
Of all 50 states, which would you guess had the most freeze-related claims? New York? Maine? Michigan? Guess again. An examination of the Boat U.S. Marine Insurance claim files found that balmy California had more winterizing claims than any other state, including any of the “deep freeze” states. While winters may be much colder in the deep-freeze states, the bitter temperatures are a fact of life and preparations for winter are taken very seriously. But in the more temperate states, like California, Florida, Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, and Georgia, winter tends to be relatively comfortable in most areas with only an occasional cold spell. And if the forecasts aren’t taken seriously, they can do a lot of damage.
Boats that are stored out of the water — on trailers or in a boatyard — are even more susceptible to hard freezes since they’re exposed all over to freezing air temperatures and don’t have the water’s moderating influence. A sudden freeze is more likely to crack an engine block or ruin a fresh water system. It’s best to winterize your boat well before the earliest possible freeze. You can check for the average dates of the first freeze in your area at gardening websites, but remember, these are averages and an early freeze can destroy an expensive engine.
Whether you’re in balmy California or one of the deep-freeze states, we want to remind those preparing for in water storage to be diligent in completing their winterizing checklist. Please make sure you refer to your owners manual and/or find proper documentation online before you start the winterization process.
Anodes for Winterization of your Mercruiser Stern/Out-drive
For those winterizing and storing boats in water Sea Shield Marine has some winterization products to help you protect against Galvanic Corrosion. For Mercruiser Alpha and Bravo Sterndrives/Out drives, we carry a full line of Mercruiser Anodes in Zinc and Aluminum, available as individual pieces or convenient kits. Also, our new Mercury Quick-Change Trim Anode – allows you to get longer life and save time changing the anodes (less time in the cold water for you divers).
ZHC-20 new 1” thick divers dream for transoms, keels, and more…
If you find yourself burning through regular divers dream plates and need added peace of mind during the winter months – Try the new Sea Shield Marine ZHC-20 1” thick Divers Dream.
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Contact: sales@seashieldmarine.com or 800-638-2577 with any questions or to request a quote.
Seasonal owners tend to assume that when they leave for cooler climates each May, their boats hibernate. We see a lot of growth and associated issues from boats just left in the water for the summer months with no services being performed.