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Love your boat? Make sure it stays looking great with a top-quality boat cover! Picture it as a shield that protects the car from snow storms, pigeons, seagulls, and the damaging effects of the sun’s UV rays. Allowing your weekend warrior to become weather-beaten, whether by rain, leaves, or UV, will be a costly nightmare. Smart protection now equals more fun days on the water later.
Are you looking for your boat’s best friend?
Why not start with brief features on covers, fabrics, colors, and other professional advice that will make your decision easier? Your boat will surely pay you for it in the future.
Let's dive in!
Types of Boat Covers
Universal FitCovers
Consider these off-the-shelf products like suits of clothes or boat covers. It is available in standard sizes and can fit most boat forms. They’re not overly glamorous, but they're ideal for those on a tight budget or looking for a second layer. These universal fit covers usually have elastic hems and forearm straps to enable you to achieve the most appropriate size for your boat.
Custom Fit Boat Covers
These covers are unique to the boat’s measurements, similar to a suit; they are handmade for your boat. Throughout the design process, the entire hull form is considered, including curves, corners, and even the boat's features. Due to the lack of excess material, the designs are superior to others. Even though Custom Boat Covers are relatively expensive, they always offer better protection and last longer.
Semi-Custom Covers
These covers fall into a comfortable medium between completely standard and completely bespoke covers. These covers provide more protection than standard one-size-fits-all covers without costing more. A semi custom boat coveris ideal for most common boat types and sizes.
Mooring Boat Covers
You might want to consider a mooring boat cover as your boat's very own suit of armor. These covers range from bow to stern, meaning your boat is fully protected when tied to the dock. They are stronger than normal covers since they are designed to be used constantly under various conditions, such as weather and water. It is best to use materials with reinforced areas in equipment accessories and rails to make mooring covers. Additional straps and tie-downs are normally included to protect parked boats from gale-like forces and waves.
Center Console Covers
We hate to see soggy upholstery, and your center console boat cover is extremely vulnerable to the elements of the sun and rain. There is a custom-built center console cover to shield your gauges, electronics, and steering controls. These covers are tailored to the console's height and width for better access. Some even have a partition to protect your high-end equipment from moisture and UV rays.
Outboard Motor Covers
A sacred room should be provided for your boat's powerhouse. Outboard motor covers protect your engine from the burning sun and other unfavorable conditions whenever the motor is not in use. Water-resistant and high-density, these covers have vents to prevent moisture accumulation. Their length is tailored to each motor brand and horsepower to prevent wind from blowing them away.
Cover Materials Matter
Marine-Grade Polyester
One of the critical marine-grade polyester boat cover materials. It is characterized as the workhorse of boat covers. This fabric holds little regard for UV rays and water while allowing your boat to do the same. You can only imagine how hard it is to go through the daily rigors without putting a strain on your wallet. It remains rigid in an elongated approach; it doesn’t expand or contract when seasons change. A water-repellent coat is incorporated into almost all suitable marine polyester fibers on the market.
Acrylic Canvas
Opt for acrylic canvas if you are a serious boat owner. It does not withstand water or UV damage and does not require any treatment to avoid these kinds of damage. It also allows fresh air to circulate and discourages the build-up of the arch nemesis of boats: mold and mildew. While acrylic canvas may initially seem expensive, it can last twice as long as other materials. It retains its color well and remains stiff in the marine environment.
Polyester-Cotton Blend
Boat owners who live in moderate climates can find these blends a good medium. In addition to breathing well, cotton has strength and water resistance thanks to the polyester. You may have to wash these covers. But they’re easy on the hands and will shape well to the contours of your boat. They are most effective in boats stored in enclosed spaces with climates.
SunbrellaFabric
As a boat owner, you’re looking for - durable, high-performance fabric, so your boat stays protected in all weather. Sunbrella fabric is perfect as a boat cover, offering incredible UV and mold resistance. It resists fading, even when you take it in water for a long period and under constant sun exposure. Plus, it's water-resistant and soft, adding both comfort and long-lasting durability. Whether you're on the water or storing your boat, the fabric ensures it looks great and stays true over time.
Understanding Your Boat’s Dimensions
Your boat’s size plays a crucial role in selecting the right boat cover. The fit can be different for the type of boat you own. The trick is to find the cover that fits your vessel like a glove. If you are unsure about the dimensions, here are the easy steps that will help you in selection: -
Search by Manufacturer
- The first step is to select the manufacturer you want for your boat,
- Then, you have to pick the year your boat was manufactured,
- The final step is specifying your boat’s model.
With these, you’ll get the ideal cover for your boat and keep your vessel safe.
Search by Boat Size
Simply opt for the measurement of the boat and Voila, you have the perfect fit for your boat. This fit will protect your boat from any threat from the UV rays, rain, snow, and even from the birds.
Let’s Measure Your Boat
Measuring Boat Length
- Start at the tip of the bow and measure to the farthest point of the stern.
- Stretch your tape to the stern or farthest point and include any protrusions, such as swim platforms or motor brackets.
- If your boat has any aftermarket additions, include them as well.
Measuring Boat Width (Beam)
- Measure across the widest point, typically at the boat’s midsection.
- Exclude removable items like bumpers.
Tips for Accurate Measurements
- Use a flexible tape measure.
- Measure twice to ensure accuracy.
- Record measurements as you go to avoid errors.
Taking the time to measure properly guarantees a snug fit and also extends the life of your cover, keeping your boat in great shape for longer.
Essential Features to Look For
Strong Stitching
The impact of your cover, therefore, depends on how it is assembled. Check for multiple rows of stitching around the edges using marine-grade thread. Some quality covers have stitched corners and strap attachment points. This focus increases your cover’s potential and can double or triple its life.
Ventilation Systems
An adequately covered boat cover does more than preserve it from the rain. Vents improve airflow to prevent moisture from forming beneath some designs. They also interrupt mold and mildew formation before they appear. Quality vents also help decrease wind lofting, which means your cover can be stressed or torn during a gust.
Secure Strapping
If the cover does not hold on to your boat, it will dangle and hit your boat. Choose covers with straps that can be adjusted and are made of rigid materials. Stainless steel quick-release buckles fix the cover and release it much easier. The straps used are strong webbing that does not stretch or break. Some of these covers have added tie-down points for better anchorage, especially in windy conditions.
Reinforced Panels
Quality covers have hard-wearing reinforcements at certain points on your boat, such as edges, railings, and hardware. These double-layered cover sections also protect it against wear and bring its useful life nearer to you. Check the upholstery fabric around windshield grab rails and cleats; this is the first place to fail.
Support Systems
Any form of protection should be covered over the surface of something to avoid water accumulation and, in so doing, increase the life span of the cover. Rain and snow will slip off a brim with adjustable poles or straps more easily. Try to find covers with integrated support spurs or ones that fit aftermarket support structures. Standard and luxury covers have tension systems to maintain their shape.
Access Points
Giving it a smart access design increases the cover's utility. The design should allow the user to inspect the boat or access some storage space without uninstalling the cover altogether. These access points should own certain closure dependability and waterproof types of seals. Some covers provide fuel door access and a few access window portals.
Edge Protection
The borders of your cover take a beating all the time. Touches include sealed covers that have double-folded edges with added stitches. Look for elastic or drawcord systems that will cinch the edges against your boat's exterior. Some manufacturers incorporate soft edge material to help avoid scratching and to obtain a tighter fit.
Weather Protection Features
In addition to fundamental watertightness, specifics of top covers are additional incorporated weather features. Cancer-causing agents such as UV are controlled by integrated inhibitors into the fabric. The coating should prevent water from soaking on both sides of the material. Some of the covers are described to have mold and mildew resistance and bird droppings – something characteristic of boat storage.
The Influence of Color and the Choice of Colors
While aesthetics are important, the color of your boat's covers can impact factors like heat retention and overall maintenance. Here are some factors to think about when making your selection:
- Black and grey may seem very professional, but color selection is not simply a matter of style.
- White or light-colored canopies allow more sun to be reflected into the air.
- Darker colors conceal dirt better and won't wear out as fast, but they don't provide as much heat insulation.
- It is also important to consider your local weather and storage when choosing a color.
Professional Advice on Installation
Having your covers properly fitted begins with a clean, dry boat. Start at the bow and move to the stern in a straight line, trying to apply the same tension. Align your cover, hence matching the manufacturer’s measurement reference points.
Afterwards, you need to manage drainage slopes and sharp spots by directing the boat cover support pole. Professionals recommend that your cover fit your drum tightly but not be stretched. Instead of using the bundle of tie-downs only, use all that is provided and mark the positions to ease the next installments.
You can also watch the installation video.
Maintenance and Care Tips
Regular Cleaning
Clean with mild soap such as Brasso or Ivory once per month. You can also use a soft brush to maintain the cover. This routine eliminates dirt that may sometimes settle on the skin. Moreover, it can help one notice some problems at an early stage. Cylinder movements and light forces have to be applied in order not to harm the material.
Chemical Safety
Strong chemicals remove layers that are applied during protection. Use a mild cleaner and avoid washing with high pressure. This is because the fabric is completely waterproof, and if exposed to strong detergents, bleach, and abrasive cleaners, you will most definitely shorten the life of your cover.
Drying Protocol
Molds and materials will deteriorate if items are moist before storage or if they have to be reinstalled. If oily dumping or water is not used, air dry in the open and expose to sunlight. This is where there are seams and folds, as these are areas most likely to be wet.
Quick Repairs
Small tears should be dealt with immediately using a small marine-grade repair kit. It takes stress to enlarge that small hole into a full-blown tear. Maintain spare parts and repair materials accessible and cover both faces with the patch whenever allowed.
Storage Method
Going forward, do not fold your cover but roll it because constant folding creates creases that compromise fabric strength. Start at one corner and spread evenly. Make sure to burst the bubbles as you apply it. This also reduces stress points and increases the life span of the cover.
Ventilation
To avoid dampness, put it in breathable bags and keep it in an appropriate airtight environment. Do not use plastic bags, as they create a base for humidity. Store it in a region free of sunlight and heat.
Harmful Substances
Bird droppings and tree sap can cause etchings on the coating, which need to be removed as soon as possible. They also become harder to wash off as time passes and can completely strip the protective coating. When cleaning, appropriate cleaners should be used, and gentle scrubbing should be done so as not to harm the plant.
Mildew Prevention
Never leave the boat cover wet because mildew can grow on it in only a few hours and will never go away. Mildew has to develop first before it can be removed almost entirely, and it decays the fabric of the material.
Trailering Success Tips
Highway speeds create unique challenges for boat covers. Before hitting the road, double-check every strap and tie-down. Add extra straps at the transom where wind lift is strongest. Consider bow and stern straps that run under your trailer for added security.
Install boat support poles or bows to prevent wind ballooning. The cover should be drum-tight to minimize flapping. Some experienced boaters add temporary straps just for trailering that can be easily removed at the destination.
Watch your speed and weather conditions. Strong crosswinds can stress even well-secured travel boat covers. Plan stops to check your cover's tension, especially on longer trips. Look for any developing wear points where the cover contacts trailer parts.
Use edge protectors where your cover might touch sharp trailer parts. Some boaters add extra reinforcement patches at typical trailer contact points. Consider a separate travel boat cover if you frequently trailer your boat - it can save wear on your main storage cover.
Keep Your Boat Protected - Starting Today!
Your boat is your recreational vehicle, play area, and valuable asset. The right boat cover protects your boat against the ravages of natural environmental conditions. Whether you decide to go with a cheaper universal fit or invest in a custom design, quality protection today often saves you money down the road.
Are you ready to equip your boat with the protection it needs? Check out National Boat Covers, the best store that offers various high-standard boat covers. Whether you need stock patterns or have your kayak or canoe customized, our professional team will ensure you get the right fit.
Remember: When a boat is protected, it spends more time at sea and less time being repaired.
Make the smart choice - cover your investment today
