Camper cover or cockpit cover ?

[Andy Bav]

We have had our camper covers up since we took delivery and have managed to stay quite free of guano.

Once the Indian Summer has past, and bearing in mind we do want to use her at least twice a month during weekends throughout the winter (as she will stay in the water this year) would you recommend keeping the camper covers up or use the, low level, cockpit cover when we leave her.

Advantage of using cockpit cover I guess is prolonging the life of the camper covers, disadvantage would be the faffing about when we do use her. Also the cockpit cover seems to be of a more waterproof material than the camper covers and we fear that may be trapping moisture in the boat and cutting down on [air] circulation -and all that comes with it.

What do you do ?

 

[rafiki_]

Cockpit tonneau for me. The winter takes quite a toll on your cannopy, and any snow can cause it to sag. It is surprising how heavy snow is! It will not be airtight, so water and especially condensation are going to be a factor. Sounds like your canopy could do with a coat of Fabsil to re-proof it.

 

[Andy Bav]

It will not be airtight, so water and especially condensation are going to be a factor. Sounds like your canopy could do with a coat of Fabsil to re-proof it.

The camper cover is more of a traditional canvas, and with the rain we have had, it hasnt leaked so far (I have my tin of Fabsil at the ready though!) but the cockpit cover seems to have a smooth vinyl side to it, almost like a waterproof jacket, which as you say will probably promote condensation, especially as we are planning on having tube heaters downstairs and in the engine bay etc .... which is another question I have for about 4 weeks time !

 

[Actionmat]

I bungee cord a small tarp over mine all year round. It only takes a few minutes to roll it up and I use mine in the winter too. I once tried using a plastic owl, which worked a treat for two weeks, then the gulls sussed it and took revenge by emptying a fortnights worth in one go. Renovo products are excellent for cleaning, re dying and proofing.

 

[jaybee63]

The tonneau cover sounds like its made from PVC which will promote condensation. The camper cover would probably be made from Acrylic canvas and hopefully a coated version with a permanent coating on the underside which gives the material its waterproofing. A good quality coated acrylic canva will also breath and so condensation will be much less evident.
If leaving the camper cover up, dependant on its age, I would make sure the stitching has not deteriated to the point it will fail over winter. Covers can generally be restitched.
Fabsil applied to the outside of acrylic canvas makes water bead up, like waxing a car bonnet.
This means the fabric dries quicker and is less prone to staining, and so less prone to algae and mildew.

Regards
John
http://www.tecsew.com