Using mooring cover without poles?

[Jeff L24]

I installed my mooring cover for the first time and it seemed tedious. I know I'll get more proficient with time but I'm wondering if I can leave out the two support poles if it's only being covered for 1-2 weeks before the next use? Has anyone had damage from water pooling while not using the poles?

 

[Richard Bares]

I installed my mooring cover for the first time and it seemed tedious. I know I'll get more proficient with time but I'm wondering if I can leave out the two support poles if it's only being covered for 1-2 weeks before the next use? Has anyone had damage from water pooling while not using the poles?

If you are storing outside where there is a chance of rain/snow I would definitely use the poles. Rain will certainly pool without them.
I store inside and tow with poles out or not extended so I rarely use the poles.

 

[tabbibus]

If you are storing it without a roof and it rains it will pool. I never use the poles but the boat lives in a covered slip. Even then when it rains sideways i'll get some pooling

 

[Julian]

I installed my mooring cover for the first time and it seemed tedious. I know I'll get more proficient with time but I'm wondering if I can leave out the two support poles if it's only being covered for 1-2 weeks before the next use? Has anyone had damage from water pooling while not using the poles?

The poles ensure water runs off the cover, without them, the cover will pool, stretch and eventually tear.
You will get faster at putting it on with practice.

 

[jdkaeser]

I'd definitely use the poles. I've had some minor pooling even with the poles, so no poles will be a no go!

 

[2kwik4u]

Use the poles. My boat survived this storm and was completely dry. The Tri-Toon sitting next to me didn't fare quite as well with a less than tight top.



I put those straps on every single time I put the cover on. Even when trailering. Poles out for trailering, poles in for storage.

 

[Sonic Blue]

There are a number of threads on the forum recommending 24” diameter beachballs. (42” circumference) Are they as effective as poles?

 

[HangOutdoors]

I use my mooring cover on the trailer exclusively, while it is in the driveway, with out the poles or balls and I don't get any pooling when it rains normally. I snug it down pretty good. With that being said, if there is a huge storm on the way just as a precaution I use the pole and straps or the beach balls depending on if they are blown up or not, etc. This is on a 21', not sure about the other sizes.

If I am trailering long distance, over 30 minutes or so, or at highway speeds, if I am covered, I use the balls and pool noodles over the windshield frame also.

Take this with a grain of salt, we don't get downpours here like some areas do.

My beach balls are 4' diameter I believe.

Edit: Do what makes you feel comfortable. I guess my only concern would be if something happened to my cover, I could be SOL getting a new one in any reasonable timeframe a lot are sold out.