A boat cover can protect your boat’s upholstery, flooring, electronics, and finish from sunlight, rain, dirt, leaves, and other environmental exposure. That protection depends on installing the cover correctly. A loose, unsupported, or poorly secured cover can collect water, flap in the wind, chafe the boat, and wear out prematurely.
This guide explains how to install a Taylor Made Boat Guard boat cover, secure the tie-down system, prevent water from pooling, clean the fabric, and store the cover properly. Because features and approved uses vary between Boat Guard models, always follow the instructions supplied with your specific cover.
Before Installing Your Boat Guard Cover
Carefully unpack the cover in a clean, dry area. Keep the fabric away from dirt, grease, sharp objects, and other contaminants until you confirm that it is the correct size and style for your boat. A cover that has been installed outdoors, soiled, altered, or damaged may no longer qualify for return.
Before placing the cover on the boat:
- Confirm that the cover matches the boat’s style and length range
- Check the package label and installation instructions
- Remove dirt or standing water from the boat
- Allow wet upholstery and flooring to dry
- Lower or remove accessories that prevent a proper fit
- Identify sharp edges and protruding hardware that require padding
- Verify that the cover is approved for its intended use
Some covers are intended primarily for storage or mooring, while others may be approved for trailering. Do not tow a covered boat unless the specific cover is rated for highway use and installed according to its trailering instructions.
What You May Need
The cover itself may not include every accessory required for a secure installation. Depending on the boat and storage method, useful items may include:
- A compatible boat-cover support system
- Tie-down straps or approved rope
- Padding for windshields, hardware, and sharp edges
- Soft cloths or protective sleeves for buckles and hooks
- A step stool for safely reaching the center of the boat
- Basic boat tools for removing or securing accessories
- Replacement hardware for covers equipped with snaps or fasteners
- A garden hose, soft brush, and manufacturer-approved cleaner
The Taylor Made Boat Cover Quick-On Tie-Down Strap Kit provides adjustable straps for securing a compatible cover to a boat trailer. Confirm that the number, length, and style of straps are suitable for your cover and trailer.
Step 1: Prepare the Boat
Remove or firmly secure detachable accessories before installing the cover. Loose equipment can move beneath the fabric, create pressure points, or tear the cover.
Items that may need to be removed, lowered, or secured include:
- Auxiliary motors and portable fuel tanks
- Ladders and boarding steps
- Removable navigation lights
- Spotlights and antennas
- Ski pylons and tow brackets
- Fishing seats and pedestal posts
- Rod holders and outriggers
- Portable electronics
- Coolers and unsecured deck equipment
Close windshields, hatches, doors, and storage compartments. Secure any remaining equipment so it cannot shift after the cover is installed.
Step 2: Pad Sharp Edges and Protrusions
Sharp corners and concentrated pressure points can wear through cover fabric, especially when the cover moves in the wind or during trailering. Inspect the entire boat for hardware that may contact the underside of the cover.
Common problem areas include:
- Windshield corners and frames
- Navigation lights
- Cleats and chocks
- Bow lights and anchor rollers
- Ski pylons and tow points
- Console corners
- Rod holders
- Outboard motor edges
- Swim-platform hardware
Cover these areas with secure, nonabrasive padding. Soft cloth, towels, carpet remnants, foam, or purpose-made cover guards may be used when they are clean and will not transfer color or trap damaging material against the boat.
Make sure the padding cannot shift out of place. If tape is needed, attach it to the padding rather than directly to upholstery, painted surfaces, vinyl graphics, or the boat-cover fabric.
Step 3: Identify the Bow and Stern
Before unfolding the cover completely, determine which end fits the bow and which fits the stern. Look for a product label, sewn-in marking, shaped bow section, motor allowance, or opening in the hem.
Orienting the cover correctly before installation reduces unnecessary pulling and lowers the chance of snagging the fabric on boat hardware.
Step 4: Place the Cover Over the Boat
Installing a boat cover is easiest with two people. One person should work from each side while the cover is unfolded from the bow toward the stern.
- Position the folded cover at the bow.
- Identify the centerline and align it with the center of the boat.
- Unfold the cover gradually toward the stern.
- Guide the fabric over the windshield, console, seating, and other padded areas.
- Avoid dragging the cover across the ground or pulling it over sharp hardware.
- Fit the stern section around the transom or motor area as designed.
- Check that the cover is centered from side to side.
Do not force the fabric over an accessory that prevents the cover from fitting naturally. Stop and reposition, remove, lower, or pad the obstruction before continuing.
Step 5: Check the Boat Cover Fit
Before tightening the cover, confirm that the selected size is appropriate. The cover should extend to approximately the rub rail around the boat and provide reasonably even coverage from bow to stern.
A properly sized cover should:
- Reach the intended coverage point along both sides
- Fit over the boat without excessive stretching
- Allow the hem to tighten against the hull
- Provide enough room for an approved support system
- Remain clear of sharp or unpadded hardware
- Not contain excessive loose fabric
A cover that cannot reach the rub rail, leaves major portions of the boat exposed, or must be stretched tightly over hardware may be too small. A cover with excessive fabric, deep folds, and a hem that cannot tighten may be too large.
Do not trim the shock cord, install hardware, or otherwise modify the cover until you have confirmed the fit.
Step 6: Install the Support System
A boat cover must be properly supported before it is tightened. The support system creates a slope that allows rain to run off instead of collecting in low spots.
Water is heavy. Even a relatively small pool can stretch the fabric, damage seams, bend support poles, and place stress on tie-down loops and boat hardware.
Position the support system so that:
- The highest points create a continuous runoff angle
- Water cannot collect between support points
- Support poles do not rest directly against unprotected fabric
- The cover does not bear excessive weight on the windshield
- Poles and straps cannot shift or collapse
- Air can circulate where the cover design allows ventilation
Do not use a loose board, broom handle, or another sharp object as an improvised support pole. Concentrated pressure can puncture or stretch the cover.
Step 7: Tighten the Shock Cord
Boat Guard covers typically use a shock cord contained within the hem. Depending on the model, the adjustment opening may be located at the bow or stern.
- Center the cover and confirm that the support system is correctly positioned.
- Locate the shock-cord opening in the hem.
- Pull the cord gradually while checking the fit on both sides.
- Tighten the hem until it fits snugly against the hull.
- Secure the cord using the method specified in the cover instructions.
- Do not trim excess cord until the final fit has been confirmed.
The shock cord helps position the cover, but it does not replace the tie-down system. Wind can lift or shift a cover that is secured only by its elastic hem.
Step 8: Secure Every Tie-Down Point
A snug, evenly tensioned cover is one of the most important factors in preventing premature wear. Secure every provided tie-down loop using compatible straps or approved rope.
- Begin with the tie-down points near the bow and stern.
- Attach the remaining straps along both sides of the boat.
- Alternate from side to side to keep the cover centered.
- Tighten each strap gradually rather than fully tightening one at a time.
- Adjust the straps until the fabric is smooth and securely supported.
- Secure loose strap ends so they cannot whip in the wind.
Tie-down straps should pull downward and slightly outward. They should not pull the cover so tightly that the seams, loops, or fabric become distorted.
If the cover is tied to a trailer, the boat must be rigidly secured to the trailer. Do not use the boat cover or its straps to hold the boat on the trailer.
Protect the boat from buckles and hooks
Position buckles, hooks, and other hardware so they do not rest directly against the hull. Cover them with soft protective material where necessary. Movement from wind or road vibration can cause unprotected hardware to scratch paint, gelcoat, graphics, or polished surfaces.
Final Boat Cover Installation Checklist
Before leaving the boat covered, walk around it and inspect the complete installation.
- The cover is correctly oriented and centered
- The fabric reaches the intended coverage point around the boat
- Sharp edges and protrusions are padded
- The support system creates positive drainage
- No low areas can collect rainwater
- The shock cord is snug and secure
- Every tie-down loop is being used
- Strap tension is even on both sides
- Buckles and hooks cannot contact the hull
- Loose strap ends are secured
- Ventilation openings are not blocked
- The cover is not touching hot exhaust components
Recheck the cover after the first rain or period of strong wind. The fabric, support system, and straps may settle and require readjustment.
Using a Boat Guard Cover While Trailering
Only trailer with a boat cover when the manufacturer identifies that specific model as trailerable. A storage or mooring cover may not be designed to withstand highway wind loads.
Before towing with an approved trailerable cover:
- Secure the boat independently to the trailer
- Use every required tie-down point
- Make sure the cover is tightly fitted and properly supported
- Pad all windshields, hardware, and stress points
- Keep buckles and hooks away from the hull
- Secure every loose strap end
- Check that the cover cannot contact exhaust components
- Inspect the installation after traveling a short distance
Stop periodically during longer trips to inspect the cover and straps. If the fabric is flapping, stop and correct the fit. Continued flapping can damage the cover and the boat’s finish.
Using a Boat Cover With Snaps and Fasteners
Some boat-cover systems use snaps or other installed fasteners instead of—or in addition to—tie-down straps. Inspect existing hardware for corrosion, looseness, sharp edges, and missing components before installing the cover.
Replace damaged components with compatible boat-cover snaps and fasteners. Do not add new snaps to a Boat Guard cover unless the manufacturer allows the modification. Incorrectly installed hardware can weaken the fabric, interfere with the cover’s fit, and affect warranty coverage.
When fastening snaps, work gradually around the boat rather than forcing one section into place. If the cover will not reach the hardware without excessive stretching, confirm its orientation, support position, and fit.
How to Prevent Water From Pooling
Standing water is one of the most common causes of boat-cover problems. Pooling usually indicates that the cover lacks support, has uneven strap tension, is too large, or has shifted.
To improve drainage:
- Raise or reposition the support system
- Create a smooth slope from the center toward the edges
- Remove deep folds that form water-catching pockets
- Balance tie-down tension on both sides
- Make sure support poles cannot slide
- Check that the cover is the correct size
Do not leave accumulated water on the cover. Remove the water carefully, then correct the support or tension problem before reinstalling it.
Ventilation and Moisture Control
A cover can keep rain and debris out while still trapping moisture produced by wet carpet, upholstery, condensation, or temperature changes. Trapped moisture can contribute to mildew, staining, and unpleasant odors.
Before covering the boat:
- Remove standing water from the bilge and deck
- Allow wet carpet and upholstery to dry
- Remove damp towels, life jackets, and other gear
- Open interior compartments when appropriate
- Make sure built-in vents are not blocked
A waterproof or water-resistant cover is not necessarily airtight. Proper ventilation and dry storage conditions are still important.
How to Clean a Boat Guard Cover
Remove leaves, dirt, bird droppings, and other debris before it becomes embedded in the fabric. Routine cleaning prevents stains and helps the cover shed water properly.
- Remove the cover from the boat when practical.
- Lay it over a clean surface or suitable support.
- Remove loose debris with a soft brush.
- Rinse the fabric with a garden hose.
- Clean stained areas using mild soap approved for the fabric.
- Use a soft-bristle brush without aggressive scrubbing.
- Rinse thoroughly until all soap residue is removed.
- Allow the cover to air-dry completely before reinstalling or storing it.
Do not use bleach, harsh chemicals, strong detergents, solvents, steam cleaners, or pressure washers unless the cover manufacturer specifically approves them. These methods can damage the fabric, stitching, protective treatment, or color.
Do not place the cover in a household washing machine or clothes dryer unless expressly permitted by the manufacturer.
When to Reapply Boat Cover Waterproofing
Cleaning, weather exposure, sunlight, and normal aging can gradually reduce the cover’s ability to shed water. If clean fabric begins absorbing water instead of allowing it to bead and run off, it may be time to apply a compatible fabric treatment.
Before using a boat-cover waterproofing treatment:
- Confirm that the product is approved for the cover fabric
- Clean the cover thoroughly
- Allow the fabric to dry completely
- Test the treatment on an inconspicuous area
- Apply it outdoors or in a well-ventilated area
- Follow the coverage, drying, and curing instructions
Waterproofing treatment will not correct holes, failed seams, or a cover that allows water to pool. Repair physical damage and correct support problems first.
How to Store a Boat Cover
Never fold and store a wet or dirty boat cover. Moisture and organic debris can encourage mildew, staining, and odors during storage.
- Clean the cover as needed.
- Allow both sides to dry completely.
- Inspect the fabric, seams, straps, and hardware.
- Make any permitted repairs before storage.
- Fold the cover loosely along its natural seams.
- Place it in a breathable storage bag or clean, dry compartment.
- Keep it away from fuel, oil, chemicals, rodents, and sharp tools.
Do not place heavy objects on top of the folded cover. Prolonged compression can crease the fabric or damage buckles, vents, and other components.
Common Boat Cover Problems
The cover collects water
Pooling usually means the support system is too low, incorrectly positioned, or unable to maintain a continuous slope. Uneven strap tension or an oversized cover can also create low spots.
The cover flaps in the wind
Confirm that the cover is centered, the shock cord is snug, every tie-down point is secured, and strap tension is balanced. A cover that is too large may still contain loose fabric after proper adjustment.
The fabric is wearing at one location
Inspect beneath the worn area for a sharp edge, unsupported pressure point, loose accessory, or missing padding. Correct the cause before repairing or continuing to use the cover.
The cover no longer repels water
Dirt or soap residue may prevent water from beading. Clean and rinse the fabric first. If the clean cover continues to absorb water, apply a fabric treatment approved for its material.
The inside of the boat develops mildew
Make sure the boat and cover are completely dry before installation. Remove damp gear, improve airflow, and keep the cover’s ventilation openings unobstructed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Boat Guard Covers
How tight should a Boat Guard boat cover be?
The cover should be snug, evenly supported, and free of loose areas that can flap or collect water. It should not be tightened so aggressively that seams, tie-down loops, or fabric become distorted.
Does every boat-cover tie-down loop need to be used?
Yes. Using every provided tie-down point distributes tension around the cover, helps keep it centered, and reduces wind movement. Skipping loops can concentrate stress on the remaining straps and attachment points.
Can I trailer my boat with a Boat Guard cover installed?
Only if the specific cover is approved for trailering. Install it using every required strap and support, secure the boat independently to the trailer, and inspect the cover regularly during the trip.
Should a boat cover touch the windshield?
The fabric may fit over the windshield, but sharp windshield corners and frames should be padded. The cover should not place excessive weight on the windshield or use it as the primary support point.
Can I pressure wash a Boat Guard cover?
No. A pressure washer can damage the fabric, stitching, and protective treatment. Use a garden hose, mild approved soap, and a soft-bristle brush.
Can I put a boat cover away while it is wet?
No. Clean and air-dry both sides completely before folding the cover. Storing damp fabric can encourage mildew, staining, and odors.
How do I stop rainwater from pooling on my boat cover?
Use a stable support system to create a continuous drainage slope, remove deep folds, and balance the tie-down tension. Persistent pooling may indicate that the cover is incorrectly installed or the wrong size.
How often should I waterproof my boat cover?
There is no fixed interval. Clean the cover first and observe how the fabric handles water. If clean fabric begins absorbing water rather than allowing it to bead and run off, apply a waterproofing product approved for the material.
Protect Your Boat and Cover
A Boat Guard cover performs best when it is correctly sized, supported, padded, and secured at every tie-down point. Take time to eliminate loose fabric and drainage pockets, then inspect the installation regularly for movement, pooling, or wear.
Routine cleaning, complete drying, careful storage, and timely waterproofing can help preserve the cover while maintaining reliable protection for your boat.
Originally published October 23, 2008. Updated with expanded boat-cover installation, trailering, cleaning, waterproofing, and storage guidance. Always follow the instructions supplied with your specific cover.