Owning a boat is quite a huge investment, and the last thing you’d want is for it to lose its value because of environmental damage owing to negligence on your part.
Every day, boats endure a cycle of humidity and temperature changes, from damp, cool nights to dry and hot sunny days. The constant wet-dry cycles and expansion and contraction take a toll on your boat’s wood brightwork and gelcoat. Add pollution, salt air, dirt, bird dropping and the occasional hailstorm in the mix, and your prized vessel is truly under siege!
That’s why a durable boat cover is essential to maintain your boat’s longevity. Investing in a sturdy boat cover prevents bleached wood, oxidized gel-coat and mold growth.
So if you’re out shopping for boat covers, here are some tips on choosing one that’s right for you:
1. Material is key!
It’s important to ensure that the boat cover fabrics you opt for has the right combination of water repellency and breathability—one that keeps the rainwater out yet permits the trapped water vapors to escape. Cheaper boat cover materials, such as cotton, don’t withstand sun and mildew in the long run.
Abrasion resistance and tensile strength is especially important in boat covers as they need to withstand high-speed winds.
In addition, the material also needs to be mildew and UV-resistant. Acrylic and dyed polyester fabrics, though expensive, are a better long-term solution. Not only do they have a good weight to strength ratio, but they are also breathable and stain-resistant.
2. Take color into consideration
Did you know that the higher the amount of dye in a fabric, the more resistant it is to UV rays? Therefore, we recommend buying fabrics with darker colors like black, blue and green instead of tan, white or red. The greater the UV-resistance, the greater its longevity.
However, keep in mind that darker colors also tend to absorb a lot more heat!
3. Proper paneling
French-styled stitching isn’t the preferred technique when it comes to boat covers because the fabric is stitched together in a way that the water flows into the seams—trapping water within the fabric. Topstitching, on the other hand, sends the water over the sides, since the top fabric piece is rolled over bottom before it is sewn in.
In addition to the lock stitched and over-lock stitched fabric, it’s also important to position all panels carefully so that the water flows away from the seams. If you don’t pay attention to positioning your panel the right, the water is likely to run into your boat’s interior.
4. Boat covers support
If you’re planning to store your yacht outdoors in the winter, it’s a good idea to invest in a boat cover support pole. These inexpensive and easy to use devices create a high point on your boat covers, and prevent debris and water pockets from forming.
Ensure top-notch protection for your prized possession!
If you’re looking for high-quality canvas boat tops and covers in Hollywood, Florida, you’ve come to the right place! We provide a wide range of customizable boat covers, made with mold and water-resistant fabric and superior tear strength to withstand high-speed winds and heavy rains.
We also provide custom marine upholstery and sturdy boat enclosures that protect your vessel perfectly! Contact our staff for estimates and more details.
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