Boat maintenance is a bit like owning a home. Taking good care of it is the only way to ensure its longevity and integrity. Neglecting your boat will result in unnecessary wear and tear, which could easily be avoided with a little TLC. The boat sales specialists at Powerhouse Marine in La Crosse, WI, can vouch for this. The company, founded in 1963, carries an extensive inventory of boats and related products.

At the helm of being a boat owner is the responsibility of maintenance. Powerhouse Marine encourages boat operators to take a proactive stance in the care and condition of their boats. Here are four helpful boat maintenance care tips to keep in mind:

• Clean: The easiest way to keep your boat in great shape is simply to wash it regularly. This is especially important for boats that operate on saltwater. Salt can leave residue behind, which may result in permanent damage. For example, it can leave permanent stains on glass, corrode metals, and cause the boat's finish to disintegrate. Salt is a harsh substance overall, and over time it can cause irreversible damage to your boat if it isn’t removed. Regular washing from top to bottom will prevent this.

• Oil: A general rule of thumb is to change the oil in your boat's engine every season or every 100 hours, whichever is first. It does take a bit of work to do this, but boating experts, such as those at Powerhouse Marine, can take care of it for you.

• Propeller: It's important to make sure the propeller is in good shape before taking the boat out onto the water. Simply remove it completely, and inspect it for damage. Even a chip or minor bruise can cause major problems with your boat, so it's critical to get the propeller fixed if there are signs of visible damage.

• Weather: During the periods of the year when your boat isn't used, it's a good idea to protect it from potentially harmful elements. Ideally, it's best to store it away from the water in a boat storage space. Otherwise, opt to keep it as covered as possible throughout the season.

You can be confident that your watercraft will stay in mint condition for years to come with regular boat maintenance. If you're concerned about its condition, however, look no further than Powerhouse Marine. With many boats for sale, it's certainly no surprise the staff offers top-tier expertise. To learn more about the boat products available, visit the website or call (608) 784-9580.