The Ultimate Guide To Metal Boat Storage Buildings

Sailing has been a crucial part of American history. From the early days of exploration and colonization to developing trading routes to parcel goods, and now to modern-day recreational activities, boating evokes a sense of freedom, independence, and adventure. Presently, American sailing thrives in coastal areas, giving rise to a wide range of activities like racing, cruising, or recreational purposes. However, a proper place must be for cabin cruiser, yacht, and boat storage.

Sailing has also become an essential part of the American identity, embodying the nation’s spirit of independence, self-reliance, and exploration. A steel boat storage shed is necessary to protect the water vehicle so that it captures the essence of the American dream – the pursuit of freedom and adventure.

Why Do You Need Boat Storage?

Keeping the boat in the shed protects it from the following:

• It protects your boat from water damage.
• Some extreme weather events, such as extreme heat or storms, can damage your boat.
• It prevents theft or vandalism.
• It protects from dings and scratches.
• It protects exterior paint and helps it to last long.
• It increases the lifespan of your boat.

How Much Does It Cost To Rent A Storage Space For a Boat?

Even though the exact price will vary with location, we will give you an estimated price in states with reportedly the highest no. of boats.

• Florida: $90 to $900 (near beaches) per foot per month
• Minnesota: $50 to $400 per month
• Michigan: ~ $150 per month
• Ohio: $100 to $300 per month
• Hawaii: $100 to $600 per month

Now, if you pay $100 per month, you will end up with a bill of $1200 per year. That’s a lot of money. But let’s see how much it costs to own a storage boat.

How Much Do You Have To Spend On Buying A Storage Space For Boat?

Now again, the exact price will depend on your size, which will further depend on your boat model and type. But, as below, we will have an estimate for you.

• Metal Garage: 20 x 36: $5100+
• Steel Carport: 12 x 21: $1200+

If you see, a steel carport will cost you more or less the same as renting storage for a year. Plus, you get to own the structure.

You can select an area on your lot to install a garage or carport. You can even use these structures for other purposes, such as occasional BBQ lunch with friends & family, evening parties, pit fire after sunset, children’s play area, patio, and outdoor seating.

Tips To Ponder Before Selecting A Steel Boat Storage Shed

Size

What Size Storage Should You Consider For Your Boat? The most accurate answer comes from the measurement of your water boat or yacht that you own. In general, an average boat size is:

• Wide: Pontoon boats have a width of 12 ft.
• Long: more than 90% of vessels are less than 20 ft.
• High: Pontoon boats are 8 ft. to 12 ft. tall, while sailboats can be as high as 20 to 30 ft. tall.

Location

You will need access to your boat storage garage often; hence, select a place that is easy to access and has a good drainage area.

Cost

You can set a budget before investing in metal boat storage buildings. To land the best deal, research the type of parking shed most suitable for your boat. You can opt for a steel carport if you want to spend a limited amount on boat shelter and live in a relatively moderate climate zone. Otherwise, you can select a metal prefab garage that fits your budget.

Permit

Since boats are large vehicles, they will need ample storage space. For most of the areas in the US, any building larger than 150 to 200 sq. ft. has to get a permit before starting construction work. If you don’t, you will end up paying a fine, or worse, you may be asked to remove the whole structure from your property.

Security

• Remove any personal items or valuables before storing your boat.
• Ensure that the battery is disconnected.
• If there are any electronics on board, you can remove them.
• Make sure the water is drained from the bilge and plumbing area. If not, it may lead to rusting. Take out all the fuel and add a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation.

Weather Effect

If you live in an area with frequent storms, opt for a certified metal garage or carport. These are designed to withstand wind speeds up to 150 to 170 miles per hour. For areas with heavy snow, you can get certified steel that can tolerate snow loads up to 20 lbs. per sq. ft.

The best thing about any metal structure is that it does not absorb water and has a surface with low friction. This aids water to slide off quickly as it touches the vertical slope. In contrast, wood will absorb some water and rot & decay over time.

Customization Features | Add Ons

Do you feel your metal building will need extra customization, such as adding trim, roof style, or gutter with a downspout? If yes, you don’t need to panic as metal structure is easy to customize. You can add any necessary accessory you want. You can even match your boat shed with the rest of your metal building.

Type Of Boat Storage

1. Garage (Fully Enclosed)

No doubt, a garage is probably an expensive investment that you will make, but it is also the safest and most secure option to protect a valuable asset. Metal boat storage buildings are incredibly durable and robust and retain their structural integrity with time. In addition, it is also low maintenance.

2. Canopy | Carport Style

A steel carport is another excellent choice for boat storage if you live in a moderate climatic condition. Galvanized steel is resistant to rusting and other elements such as pests, mold, mildew, and storms. A carport is airy and covers your boat from top and sides (you can install at most two sidewalls, partial or full). They are relatively inexpensive investments.

3. Prefab Steel Structures (PEMBs)

These metal structures are predesigned in the factory and come at $7 to $15 per sq. ft. The assembly process is easy and quick with minimal manpower.

Winterize Your Boat with Metal Boat Storage Buildings

Your boat or yacht remains pristine when you buy a steel boat storage shed. They are undoubtedly a considerable investment, but they will pay for themselves in the long run as your waterboats are also expensive.

Get your metal garage or carport from a certified steel builder. They will walk you through the design suitable for your boat and comply with all the local zoning laws. Even though the owner is responsible for securing a permit, the steel builder will provide you with the blueprint you can submit when applying.