shrink wrapping a sailboat

How To Shrink Wrap a Sailboat

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

June 15, 2022

Many boat owners opt for shrink wrapping as a winterizing solution. Here's why you should consider shrink wrapping a sailboat and how it’s done.

Shrink wrapping a sailboat has many pros, including advanced water protection, stability in harsh environments, and customization to each unique sailboat.

The process of shrink wrapping a sailboat begins with creating a frame with straps, then using tape and strategic cuts to secure the plastic wrap to the frame, and finally, the process ends with using a heat gun to weld the plastic’s seams and shrink the cover.

Table of contents

Why Shrink Wrap a Sailboat?

Shrink wrapping is most common in northern parts of the world where freezing is a certainty . Unless you can store your boat inside, you have to cover it for those long months without fine sailing weather.

There are other methods of covering your boat. You could use a large tarp, or pay for a coveted spot at a storage facility. But, for people who want a one-and-done solution, shrink wrapping is the most effective option.

Pros of Shrink Wrapping:

It’s made of plastic, so it wicks water off the cover’s surface. If installed correctly, then the chance of water getting into the covered area is very slim.
It’s stable. The shrink wrap covering gets strapped down in multiple areas. The tight fit makes it so it won’t get blown off your boat by strong winds. Also, water won’t pool on the surface of the cover and cause it to collapse.
It’s cheaper than a permanent boat cover. If you’ve just bought a boat and haven’t invested in a permanent cover, or if you had a cover and now it needs replacing, shrink wrapping is a cheap way to cover your boat for the winter season without much commitment.
You can customize the cover each winter. Since each shrink wrap is good for one winter, you can configure it differently each year if you need it. For example, if you’re going to take advantage of the winter season to do some needed updates on your boat, you can configure the cover so that you can get under it and still work.

It would be remiss to not mention the cons of shrink-wrapping a sailboat. Though, you can avoid many of the cons by planning for them in advance.

Cons of Shrink Wrapping a Sailboat:

It makes a lot of plastic waste. As a sailor, you’re probably conscious of the effects your waste has on the ocean. To counteract the plastic waste, make sure to have a plan in place for recycling the cover once the winter season is over.
Costs are reoccurring. If you choose to use a shrink wrap cover for your sailboat every year, the costs can add up. But, it’s the most effective way of keeping your boat dry during winter. It’s also a good option for boat-owners who are still searching for their permanent solution.
Installation is tricky. If you’re not experienced with the tools needed (such as a blow torch) for installing a shrink wrap, you probably want to hire professionals. This ensures it’s installed correctly, but it is an additional cost.
Ventilation is an issue. If water gets trapped within the shrink wrap, it could cause mildew or mold. So, you need to install vents in areas where water won’t get in but that encourages airflow.

Ultimately, when it comes to deciding whether or not to shrink wrap a sailboat, each boat owner’s unique circumstances matter more than anything. Your specific location, storage options, and budget will help you to decide what your best option is.

How to Shrink Wrap a Sailboat

Shrink wrapping a sailboat has many steps that have a specific order and must be done right to ensure a watertight seal. Before beginning the process, decide if you want to cover the sailboat with the mast up or down.

The location you’re storing the boat will matter. Also, if you plan on working on the boat during the winter season, you’ll want to make sure you have enough headroom to get on the deck.

By wrapping the boat with the mast up, you can decide how much deck room you’ll have. On the other hand, if you keep the mast down, you won’t be able to access the sailboat deck.

Steps to Shrink Wrap a Sailboat

Prepare the sailboat’s interior and exterior. If your boat is currently in the water, it must be dry-docked. Clean the inside of your boat and make sure there’s no excess moisture anywhere. Open the hatches and drain plug so any water still in the boat can drain or air out before you wrap it.
Start on the supports. The supports are straps that run from the mast, or center, of the boat and to the bow and the stern, and then down the center and around the boat. The more supports you place on the deck, the more sturdy your shrink wrap cover will be. Make sure to tighten the straps well enough, but not too tight because they might bend the boat railing.
If you’re shrink wrapping the boat with the mast down, you’ll need to use wooden supports, or basic 2 by 4 planks, to make sure the wrap holds a structure In the center so water and snow can easily slide off and not build up.
Secure the hull strap horizontally around the length of the boat. It’s a good idea to use the waterline as a guide . Tighten this strap so it doesn’t slide down.
Measure the plastic wrap for your boat. It will be in two parts, one for the bow half of the boat and one for the stern half. Make sure to give yourself 1-2 ft of excess plastic on each side to form a weld and to wrap around the hull strap that is already secured horizontally across the waterline.
Once you have the plastic measured and cut, roll it up and bring it on the deck. Cut two slits in the plastic where it will wrap around the mast or the wooden frame. Then, use tape to secure and watertight seal the plastic to the mast. Do this with both halves of the plastic cover. Make cuts in the plastic for the stays and secure the plastic with more tape. Remember, a watertight seal is necessary to keep water out during the winter months.
After you secure the plastic on the deck, move to the hull strap. You should have at least 1 foot of extra plastic to wrap around the strap. Again, secure the plastic with tape.
When you have the two plastic sheets secured, you can begin welding the plastic. (This is the part where many people prefer a professional.) You’ll need a special heat gun and arm attachment for this. Lightly heat the seams where the two plastic sheets meet and weld the plastic together.
After welding the seams together, tape over them again to ensure maximum durability.
Complete the process by lightly blowing heat over the entire plastic cover, thus shrinking it and creating an airtight seal. Be careful not to heat the plastic too much. You just want to heat it enough so it forms a tight wrapping around your boat.

DIY Shrink Wrapping vs. Hiring a Professional

Most sailors are comfortable with a DIY project here and there—it’s part of boat ownership. But shrink wrapping a boat requires special tools and specialized skills so you don’t damage the boat.

If you’re confident with the process, doing it yourself is a cost-efficient option. But, hiring a professional is easy. Most marinas and boatyards have people experienced with shrink wrapping boats.

Hiring a professional has many benefits such as insurance (they are working with a blow torch near your boat after all), experience, and help. Also, they’ll discard the plastic after the winter season. Many boatyards have a recycling source specifically for shrink wrapping.

Boatyards and marinas typically charge by the foot for shrink wrapping services. Sailboats may end up costing more because of the amount of hardware that needs securing and wrapping.

There are also shrink-wrap services that will come to your boat, which is a good option for people who don’t store their boat in a yard or marina.

Expect to pay $25 to $60 per foot to shrink wrap a sailboat. Of course, this price can range dramatically based on your location and the competition.

Should You Shrink Wrap Your Sailboat?

The answer depends entirely on your situation. If you store your boat outside in a climate that often has snow, rain, and freezing temperatures, shrink wrapping is a sure way to keep moisture from entering the hull and causing damage.

If you’ve recently purchased a sailboat and haven’t decided on a reusable boat cover (which can be a large upfront cost), shrink wrapping is a good temporary solution for when it comes time to winterize .

On the other hand, if you live in a climate that doesn’t freeze, or if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, shrink wrapping a sailboat might not be the right solution for you.

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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How to Shrink Wrap a Boat

Last Updated: January 21, 2024 References

This article was co-authored by wikiHow Staff . Our trained team of editors and researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. There are 16 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 87,527 times. Learn more...

When you need to store your boat for the winter or ship it to a new location, use marine shrink wrap to keep it in top condition. A tight layer of shrink wrap blocks out cold air, moisture, and sunlight. To install shrink wrap, fit sheeting over a frame of polyester strapping, then warm it with a shrink gun. Add tape, vents, and doors as needed to safely seal away your boat until you’re ready to use it again.

Moving and Securing the Boat

Step 1 Take the boat out of the water before wrapping it.

You can leave a small speedboat or sailboats on its trailer while you winterize it. If you have a larger, heavier boat like a yacht, put it on blocks for the winter.

Step 2 Move the boat to a well-ventilated area for storage.

To protect yourself from any fumes released by the shrink wrap, wear a respirator or dust mask.
If you can, bring the boat to its winter storage location before winterizing it. That way, you don’t have to move it later and risk damaging the wrapping.

Step 3 Cover fuel vents with shrink wrap tape to seal them.

You can get shrink wrap tape online from marine supply stores and shrink wrap suppliers. Also, look for it at hardware or general stores.
Consult the boat manufacturer or your owner’s manual to find the vents if you’re not sure where they are.

Step 4 Pad sharp corners with foam cushions or towels.

You can purchase foam insulation from a hardware store or repurpose some old towels or clothing.
Some areas to cover include windshield corners, antennas, and ski pylons.

Building a Fabric Frame

Step 1 Set up support posts along the center of your boat.

If you wish to make your own posts, measure the boat’s height from the deck to the highest point. Purchase 2 in × 4 in (5.1 cm × 10.2 cm) wood posts 10 in (25 cm) taller than your measurement, then fit them with foam caps purchased online.
You only need 2 posts for small powerboats. Place additional posts to support the shrink wrap on larger boats. Install an additional post for every 8 ft (2.4 m) of boat length you need to cover.

Step 2 Tie the support posts in place with polyester straps.

Make sure the straps are tight and secure. They form a stable frame to fit the shrink wrap over. If the straps look loose, the shrink wrap will also be loose.
If you can’t find a place to anchor the strapping, run it all the way down to the trailer underneath the boat.

Step 3 Tie loops to the end of each piece of strapping.

Tie the straps in place using a basic overhand knot . Using a different kind of knot is also fine as long as the straps are well-secure.

Step 4 Wrap a perimeter band all the way around the boat.

Pull the strap as tight as you can before tying it. For assistance, use a strap tensioning tool, available online and in most shrink wrap kits.
You can tie the perimeter band around the boat’s propeller. Use it as an anchor point to keep the strap tight and secure.

Applying the Shrink Wrap

Step 1 Measure your boat’s height and length to figure out how much material you need.

The shrink wrap also needs to cover the entire top of the boat, including the windshields and other protrusions. Measure down from the highest point of the boat, which is usually one of the supports you set up earlier.
Keep in mind that using too much shrink wrap is better than not having enough. You can always cut a bigger sheet down to size before you heat it.

Step 2 Drape the shrink wrap and tuck it around the perimeter band.

Keep the wrap folded in a box until you are ready to use it. It may tear or get dirt on it if you aren’t careful.
Try to use a single piece of shrink wrap to cover the entire boat. If you need to use 2 pieces, join them with shrink wrap tape and heat.

Step 3 Weld the shrink wrap to the perimeter band with a heat tool.

The heat wrap will get warm, so be careful not to touch it with exposed skin. Also, use gentle amounts of heat to avoid damaging the wrap or your boat.

Step 4 Tie belly bands every 6 in (15 cm) along the shrink wrap.

The belly bands keep the shrink wrap film pulled tight, leading to a better seal.
You do not need to tighten the belly bands further. As long as they are about 8 in (20 cm) below the rub rail, tying them once is enough.

Step 5 Secure the shrink wrap to the back end of the boat.

This part is the trickiest to get right. The film may tear if you work too quickly. When you’re done, the shrink wrap will hang lower than it does on the rest of the boat.

Step 6 Heat the wrap from the back to the front of the boat.

If you have ever tried spray painting, heating shrink wrap requires a similar motion. As long as you keep the gun moving at a steady pace, you can avoid melting the sheeting or the boat.
To avoid overheating or melting the wrap, keep track of the areas you have worked on. Think of the boat as being divided into sections. Work on a single section at a time.

Step 7 Use a ladder or extension to reach the top part of the boat.

If you use a ladder, make sure you are able to reach the top part of the boat without falling. Touching the shrink wrap may damage it.

Finishing and Venting the Seal

Step 1 Tape over any holes or weak points you notice in the shrink wrap.

The tape adheres better when the shrink wrap is still warm. If you have to let the shrink wrap cool, you may need to warm it up very briefly again to get the tape to stick.
Read the manufacturer’s recommendations on the shrink wrap tape for more specific instructions about how to cover up damaged spots.

Step 2 Place adhesive vents along the sides of the boat.

A great place for the vents is over your boat’s taped up fuel vents.
The vents let moisture out from underneath the shrink wrap, preventing mold from growing on your boat.
To figure out how many vents you need, refer to a size guide. Try using https://dr-shrink.com/boat-size-venting-chart-cheat-sheet/ .

Step 3 Cut open the vent before installing a cap over it.

Most shrink wrap manufacturers offer zippered doors. Zippered doors do not break the shrink wrap seal you worked so diligently to install, so add a door if you think you will need to get into the boat during the winter.

Community Q&A

Remove shrink wrap by cutting it with a plastic edge. Using a sharp knife or a similar object may scratch up your boat. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
To fully winterize your boat, remove cushions and other fabric components. If you can’t remove them, leave the boat’s doors open to ventilate the cabins. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Shrink wrap is flammable when it is overheated. Always keep a fire extinguisher on hand in case of an emergency. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
You can damage your boat while attempting to shrink wrap it. If you’re worried about this, hire a professional. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Shrink wrap releases a toxic odor when it is heated. Work in a ventilated space and wear a respirator. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Things You'll Need

Measuring tape
Shrink wrap
Padding for sharp edges
Shrink wrap tape
At least 4 vents
At least 2 2 in × 4 in (5.1 cm × 10.2 cm) posts approximately 10 in (25 cm) tall
Zippered door

↑ http://www.withoutahitch.com.au/marine/getting-boat-water-step-step-guide/
↑ https://www.discoverboating.com/ownership/storage
↑ https://www.boatingmag.com/how-to/should-you-shrinkwrap-your-own-boat
↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eg7sjGw0SZY&feature=youtu.be&t=91
↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l0gLOh4ZFJ8&feature=youtu.be&t=11
↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vm3OQEI8GQg&feature=youtu.be&t=142
↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJs7o0LZiRo&feature=youtu.be&t=327
↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vm3OQEI8GQg&feature=youtu.be&t=235
↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJ6X-CfB0uc&feature=youtu.be&t=559
↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l0gLOh4ZFJ8&feature=youtu.be&t=41
↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l0gLOh4ZFJ8&feature=youtu.be&t=65
↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxjaiZsF5Uw&feature=youtu.be&t=614
↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJs7o0LZiRo&feature=youtu.be&t=1249
↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxjaiZsF5Uw&feature=youtu.be&t=776
↑ https://www.boatingmag.com/how-to/adding-vents-and-doors-to-shrink-wrap
↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vm3OQEI8GQg&feature=youtu.be&t=451

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IMAGES

How To Shrink Wrap a Sailboat
Pros and Cons of Shrink Wrapping a Boat
How to Shrink Wrap a Sailboat Mast Up / Dr. Shrink, Inc
Shrink Wrapping for Winter
Sail Boat Shrink Wrapping Services
We Live in a Bubble: Shrink-wrapping a Sailboat in the Water with the

VIDEO

Boat Shrink Wrapping
Watch me shrink wrap a 20' pontoon boat and 13' speed boat in 5 minutes
Surviving Winter Aboard: How We Wrapped Our Boat in Plastic for Cozy Living #shorts #sailing
Offshore Prep! Dodger & Sail Repair, New Cushions, Radio Install, Oil Change and more!
Removing boat shrink wrap
Boat shrink wrap #shorts

COMMENTS

How To Shrink Wrap a Sailboat | Life of Sailing
Shrink wrapping a sailboat has many pros, including advanced water protection, stability in harsh environments, and customization to each unique sailboat. The process of shrink wrapping a sailboat begins with creating a frame with straps, then using tape and strategic cuts to secure the plastic wrap to the frame, and finally, the process ends ...
Should I Shrink Wrap My Boat? A Quick Guide - boats.com
If your boat represents a large investment and you want to protect it, a good shrink wrap job done by a real pro is the hands-down best way to safeguard your boat through the winter. But if your boat is old or inexpensive and your budget is tight, default back to that old tarp—and be ready to monitor and maintain it until spring.
How to Shrink Wrap a Sailboat Mast Up / Dr. Shrink, Inc ...
Learn from the professionals at Dr. Shrink on how to wrap any size sailboat without the need to remove the mast. Ideal for winter storage.
How to Shrink Wrap a Boat (with Pictures) - wikiHow
When you need to store your boat for the winter or ship it to a new location, use marine shrink wrap to keep it in top condition. A tight layer of shrink wrap blocks out cold air, moisture, and sunlight. To install shrink wrap, fit...
How to Shrink Wrap a Boat in 10 Steps | Boats.net
If a custom cover is beyond your budget and you want more protection than an old tarp, shrink wrapping your boat is the way to go. Follow these 10 easy steps to shrink wrap your own boat for the boating offseason.
Shrink Wrap Tips | How to Shrink Wrap a Sailboat
Shrink wrapping a sailboat with the mast down uses many of the same principles explained on the shrink wrap video. Before beginning the shrink wrap covering process, please view the video at least twice to familiarize yourself with all steps.