I have a Cosine Wherry that was stored outside for three years. I kept it under a blue tarp which was supported off the boat with a 2x4 that sat on a cushion on the bow, and rested on the stern. Where the plastic cushion was in contact with the epoxy on the little bow deck, the epoxy clouded underneath. Based on that experience, I'd say if you use a plastic tarp, suspend it off the boat. Perhaps a canvas one would work better.

> Hi folks,

> With winter coming and all, and my upcoming Exp. Sing. project Ive looked
> around for places that I can store a 19' boat. Crossways across my parents
> garage and hung from the ceiling is one option... but thats also a 50 mile
> round trip every time I want to get my kayak. The other alternative I've
> pondered is storing it outside. Bare in mind, the boat would be TOTALY
> shielded from the sun wrapped up in a tarp and supported off the ground.
> Snow would fall on it, as rain would too, but never directly, just on the
> tarp. That said, what would exsposure of this sort do to the integrity of
> the hull? Will the moinsture eventually seep thru into the wood? What
> about all thos sub freezing temps in a new england winter? I picture
> cracked epoxy from the temps and discolored wood from moisture seepage
> thru the epoxy. Are my fears justified?

> The good news is my Dad thinks the kayak is a "wonderful" winter
> project, hence borrowing a side of the garage will go down ok.

> Pete