Steve Sanford
Well-known member
All~
Since I have not yet built my planned inside storage for my gunning boats, I need to keep a decent cover on them through the off-season. I have been using this approach for many years now: A decent poly tarp lashed over a wooden frame with enough pitch to the "roof" that it will shed both rain and snow. As important, it protects from the ravages of sun, dirt and leaves. This system is not vermin-proof, though. Wasps, mice, 'coons and possums can still wreak havoc. But, I generally get 3 or 4 seasons from a tarp. The frames last much longer.
Here is how I build the supports. Except for the 16' "ridge pole" , it's salvaged 3/4-inch pine. This lumber was from the "summer kitchen" we tore off the house more than 10 years ago. The support is screwed and glued together - to withstand both wind and man-handling.
The "feet" are scribed to the contours of the decks.
The plywood "cheek pieces" form a pocket to hold the ridge pole. Three screws - one on one side, two on the other - in each are removable so everything comes apart for storage when the cover is not needed. The arrow and reference marks help me re-assemble after next season.
Short lengths of pipe insulation protect the paint on the decks.
Here is the whole frame. The pipe insulation - for 3/4-inch pipe - protects the tarp from chafe.
I used a 12' x 16' tarp - from Tractor Supply - and cut it in half lengthwise - so I could get 2 boats from a single tarp. I sewed the hem on the cut side and installed brass grommets opposite every other factory grommet - about every 3 feet.
I also sewed most of the bow seam closed.
I used 4 or 5 shock cords to hold the tarp under tension.
The stern opening is trussed with decoy line to minimize flapping in a wind.
I also bore a hole through the aft end of the ridge pole so the tarp cannot creep forward in use.
My Great South Bay Ice Scooter TED SANFORD is now ready for a long summer's nap - dreaming of ice on the Bay next winter......
All the best,
SJS
Since I have not yet built my planned inside storage for my gunning boats, I need to keep a decent cover on them through the off-season. I have been using this approach for many years now: A decent poly tarp lashed over a wooden frame with enough pitch to the "roof" that it will shed both rain and snow. As important, it protects from the ravages of sun, dirt and leaves. This system is not vermin-proof, though. Wasps, mice, 'coons and possums can still wreak havoc. But, I generally get 3 or 4 seasons from a tarp. The frames last much longer.
Here is how I build the supports. Except for the 16' "ridge pole" , it's salvaged 3/4-inch pine. This lumber was from the "summer kitchen" we tore off the house more than 10 years ago. The support is screwed and glued together - to withstand both wind and man-handling.
The "feet" are scribed to the contours of the decks.
The plywood "cheek pieces" form a pocket to hold the ridge pole. Three screws - one on one side, two on the other - in each are removable so everything comes apart for storage when the cover is not needed. The arrow and reference marks help me re-assemble after next season.
Short lengths of pipe insulation protect the paint on the decks.
Here is the whole frame. The pipe insulation - for 3/4-inch pipe - protects the tarp from chafe.
I used a 12' x 16' tarp - from Tractor Supply - and cut it in half lengthwise - so I could get 2 boats from a single tarp. I sewed the hem on the cut side and installed brass grommets opposite every other factory grommet - about every 3 feet.
I also sewed most of the bow seam closed.
I used 4 or 5 shock cords to hold the tarp under tension.
The stern opening is trussed with decoy line to minimize flapping in a wind.
I also bore a hole through the aft end of the ridge pole so the tarp cannot creep forward in use.
My Great South Bay Ice Scooter TED SANFORD is now ready for a long summer's nap - dreaming of ice on the Bay next winter......
All the best,
SJS
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