Boat covers fabrics

[bilbobaggins]

May I plug into some more forum experience?

I want to acquire a more durable boat-hulls cover for my 'project'. Previously, various tarps from builders' merchants have swiftly suffered UV degradation, then falling debris from adjacent trees rips through the severely-weakened fabric, then the wind disposes of the rest. Result, loss of protection and a lot of huffing and puffing at an inconvenient time.

I'm considering 610gm/sq.metre PVC coated fabric, at around £650; I'm also considering 250gm/sq.metre polytarp with UV inhibitor - at around £250 a pop.

Any experience of either - or have you a better idea? The solution must be green - 'cos I'm PC this week..... Visqueen clear sheeting is therefore a non-starter.

/forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

 

[bigwow]

I got my winter covers made by the local chap who makes curtain sides for artics. Been using them now for 2 years now, apart from the starling sh#t they still look as new.

 

[old_salt]

I'll go along with this I have covers on two boats made from this material and it is fantastic.
Going on for 3 years now.
Try to get a good secondhand piece if you can.

 

[mikefleetwood]

Assuming you don't need 100% watertight, ie. don't mind a few joints - what's wrong with cheap tarps from B&Q?

I bought 3 for about £4 each, a year ago, joined with binder twine between the eyelets, and they survived perfectly. A bit of tearing around the eyelets, but survived all the hazzards mentioned and still servicable for another winter (or two).

 

[rogerthebodger]

I am just about to put a cover over my project as summer is coming and I am using a shade cloth. It is not water proof but very UV resistant and will also keen leaves and "tree muck" off. It is used alot for low cost car ports. I have just purchased a roll 25 m long 3 m with for about 1000 SA Rand at current exchange rate 75 quid.

Have a look at this web page may be a simular product in th UK or order from SA