Do I need a summer cover?

I've done a search on this, and couldn't find what I need to know. I have a'93 H14T and plan on storing it on its trailer, mast-up this summer. It has white hulls, and a faded black mesh tramp. The trailer is galvanized. Last summer it sat in the garage, and under a tarp behind the garage over the winter.

Here's the question: Is it really important to cover it up in the boatyard this summer? How damaging is the sun? Rain? I'm in Michigan. I'm inclined to modify my winter tarp to use this summer, but am I being too protective?

Sun and air pollution are bad for boats.

Keep it under cover.

Thanks, Matt.

Yes, sun bad, acid rain bad, sun bad!

I would invest in a cheap tarp to cover it. I have found a couple cheap tarp bungies and a few quick clips make it very easy to quickly install and or remove my tarp. You may have to get cleaver to work around the mast.

I also clean my boat off and use 303 protestant to seal the fiberglass. Helps keep crud off and protects from UV damage

Andrew,

I've never heard of "303 protestant". What's that? What brand name is it sold under? Thanks.

_________________
Mark Van Doren
H16 Seabreeze #112205 (Richard Petty Signature Edition)
H14T Fantasia #47787
San Juan 28

Google is your friend.

Thanks Mat. Had I Googled 303 "Protestant" I might have wound up in church.

_________________
Mark Van Doren
H16 Seabreeze #112205 (Richard Petty Signature Edition)
H14T Fantasia #47787
San Juan 28

Use caution when applying anywhere you need traction.... i STRONGLY suggest you dont do it on the tramp, top of hulls and anywhere you would need to stand durring righting.

I have used it on my hulls, blocks, even my snuf bag. I am thinking about doing it on my mylar sails... THe car is next

I would do a search at CatSailor.com's forums and read all about it. Thats where i learned about it....