How to Store a Pontoon Boat in Spring

Boat Storage


Texas Mega Storage
March 1st, 2025


An image of a boat parked in a storage facility. A text banner reads, “How to store a pontoon boat in Spring.”
Some pontoon owners assume it’s enough to take their boat out of the lake at the end of the season, park it and forget about it until warmer weather arrives. But did you know that improper storage can lead to damage and costly repairs? It can even shorten the lifespan of your boat.
Taking a little extra time now to properly store your boat can help you save time, money and headaches down the road.
Here are a few of our expert tips to help you store your pontoon boat the right way here in Spring, Texas.


Preparing Your Pontoon Boat for Storage


Remove All Personal Items

Small items like life vests, fishing gear, electronics, backpacks and other loose items are best stored in the safety of your own home during the winter. As well, make sure that any food and drinks are removed from your boat before storing it to avoid attracting rodents and insects.


Clean Your Boat Thoroughly

Any dirt, dust, algae, salt or other gunk left on the surface of your boat can end up causing damage if left over a long period of time. We recommend giving your boat a thorough cleaning inside and out. Give your boat’s deck, hull and pontoons a good scrub, and wax your boat’s exterior. Then, vacuum the floors and wipe down the upholstery.


Fix Any Damage

While you clean your boat, keep an eye out for any damage. Scrapes, dents and leaks should be repaired as soon as possible, especially if they’re on your hull or pontoons. Even a minor leak can lead to long-term consequences, weighing down your pontoons with water and shortening the life of your boat.


Tune Up Your Engine

Your engine is what keeps your pontoon boat going, so it’s a good idea to inspect it thoroughly at the end of the season to make sure everything is in working order. Change your engine’s oil, check the levels of all other fluids and grease up any moving parts. While you’re at it, inspect your fuel lines and replace any that are cracked or damaged.


Fill Up Your Tank

It may seem counterintuitive to fill up your fuel tank right before you put your boat into storage. But keep in mind that any air inside your fuel tank can potentially condensate. Water in your gasoline can cause major performance issues and can even be dangerous. As well, it can cause corrosion and rust damage to your boat’s engine.
Before topping off your tank, we recommend adding a fuel stabilizer, which prevents evaporation and repels water. Be sure to start your engine one last time so the stabilized fuel can run through your boat’s engine.


Store Your Battery

Just like a car, boat batteries can drain over time, especially if they’re sitting in storage for months at a time. Disconnect your battery and keep it stored safely in a cool place at home to help preserve its charge.


Drain Your Potable Water System

If you have a galley on your pontoon, completely drain your potable water system before storing your boat. There’s several reasons for this. For one, water that’s been sitting in a tank for a few months can develop a bad smell and taste.
As well, any water left in the system has the potential of freezing, causing components like hoses and fittings to crack. While freezing weather isn’t a major concern for us here in Spring, we do experience a few nights a year that hit below 32 degrees. It’s better to drain your water tank now rather than having to deal with a major repair later.


How to Store Your Pontoon Boat

Now that your boat is clean and in good working order, it’s ready to be stored! These are a few of our top tips to help you make the most of your winter storage experience.


Store Your Boat Off the Ground

Either store your boat on its trailer or place blocks under its welds to keep it off the ground. Over time, a pontoon on the ground can corrode, giving you an unwanted problem to deal with in the spring.


Cover Your Boat

Storage facilities come with several options for boat storage. Most frequently, you’ll find fully outdoors, uncovered storage. Some facilities – including Texas Mega Storage – also have the option of covered outdoor storage.
No matter what you choose, it’s a good idea to put a cover over your pontoon, especially if you’re going to be storing it for months at a time. A cover helps prevent damage from Texas’s weather, as well as UV rays from the sun, which can fade your boat’s finish and crack any rubber or vinyl upholstery.
We recommend a waterproof, UV-resistant cover that fits your boat tightly. You may also consider having a professional shrink wrap your boat. While it is more expensive, shrink wrap seals your boat completely against UV rays and water damage.


Choose a High-Quality Storage Facility

You should never have to worry about your boat while it’s in storage. Choose a facility with top security features like 24/7 security cameras, gated entry and a fenced perimeter. As well, a place with friendly on-site staff and great reviews from prior renters helps ensure that your boat will be well-protected for however long you need to store it.


Ready to Store Your Pontoon Boat in Spring, Texas?

Storing your pontoon helps keep it in great shape until you’re ready to head out on your next boating adventure on Lake Houston or Lake Conroe. If you’re ready to store your boat, we’re here to help.
Texas Mega Storage offers both uncovered outdoor storage and covered outdoor storage, so you’re sure to find the option that meets your budget and needs.
We’re conveniently located in Spring, Texas, just east of Rhodes Road on Farm to Market 2920.
Ready to store your boat? Rent a space online in minutes, or give our friendly on-site staff a call to ask any lingering questions you have about our facility and storage options.