
As the leaves turn golden along Wascana Centre and the crisp autumn air signals the end of another beautiful Saskatchewan summer, boat and RV owners across Southern Regina are faced with a familiar dilemma: how to best protect their prized possessions from the impending harsh winter. The warm, dry summers quickly give way to cold, dry winters with average temperatures that can plummet to a bone-chilling -11°C. With significant temperature swings and an average of 398 mm of precipitation to contend with, properly winterizing your boat or RV isn't just a suggestion; it's a necessity. The two most popular methods for protecting your investment are shrink-wrapping and tarping. But which one is right for you? Let's break down the pros and cons of each.
The Case for Shrink-Wrapping: A Fortress for Your prized possession
For those who prefer a "set it and forget it" approach to winter storage, shrink-wrapping is the gold standard. This method involves covering your boat or RV with a heavy-duty, waterproof plastic film that is then heated to shrink and create a tight, seamless barrier against the elements.
Pros:
Unmatched Protection: A professionally installed shrink-wrap cover is impervious to rain, snow, ice, and UV rays. Its taut surface sheds snow and water, preventing the pooling that can lead to costly damage. In a place like Regina, where heavy snowfall is a given, this is a major advantage.
Durability: Unlike tarps, shrink-wrap won't flap in the wind, which means no chafing or rubbing against your boat's gelcoat or your RV's finish. It's tough enough to withstand the harsh prairie winds that whip across the fields along Highway #1.
Pest Deterrent: The tight seal of shrink-wrap makes it much more difficult for rodents and insects to find their way inside your boat or RV to nest for the winter.
Cons:
Cost: Shrink-wrapping is more expensive than tarping, and it's a recurring annual cost. You can expect to pay a premium for the convenience and superior protection it offers.
Environmental Concerns: Shrink-wrap is a single-use plastic, and while ...
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September 12th, 2025