How to Make a Weather Shield for a Boat

Weather shields for boats come in a wide range of options. From buildings that house the boat when it is not on the water, custom-constructed frames that fit over the entire boat to hold up a tarp, or slapping waterproof varnish to shield the boat, there are many types of weather shields available. You can create your own weather shield that will protect against the ravages of snow, rain, winds, insects and sunlight without having to spend a fortune for a custom-made version.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
  • Chalk
  • Waterproof canvas, acrylic, polyester or plastic tarpaulin
  • Scissors
  • Heavy-duty needle and thread
  • Industrial-strength sewing machine (optional)
  • Shock cord and hooks
  • Suction tie-downs
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the width and height of the boat. If you have a cabin or cockpit on the boat, make certain to account for this additional footage in your measurements so that when you complete the weather shield it will fit tightly and leave little space for the debris, insects and animals to get underneath. Use the chalk to mark these measurements onto the tarp.

    • 2

      Measure the tarp. If your tarp pieces are too small, sew them together to get the correct size you need. You may want to use the industrial-strength sewing machine to ensure that the pieces are tightly sewn together.

    • 3

      Sew a 2-inch casing around the tarp with the sewing machine and leave the ends open. Cut enough shock cord from the coil to equal the size of the tarp casing plus 2 inches. Attach a coil hook onto one end of the shock cord, and feed it through the casing all around until it meets at the other end. Attach another hook to the other end of the shock cord. Use these two hooks by linking them together to ensure a taut fit of the cover when it goes over and around the boat.

    • 4

      Make chalk marks 12 inches apart onto the tarp. Attach the suction tie downs to the bottom of the tarp casing. Secure them through each part of the folded casing, making sure to leave the suction cup end free to attach to the boat when you are ready to attach the weather shielding. Cut several pieces of shock cord and fit each end with a hook. The length of the shock cords should be the circumference of the boat.

    • 5

      Cover the boat with the weather shield tarp. Pull the shock cord taut through the casing and link the two hooks tightly, avoiding as few gaps as possible. Attach the suction cups to the sides of the boat, again pulling the weather shield tight. Finally, wrap the shock cords with hooks around the boat and attach them on the bottom for extra security.