Biminis & Window Enclosures

The key to a great enclosure starts with a good bimini or hard top for attachment. On biminis we always build zippered pockets for each bow individually for easy removal and replacement. Canvas Crew designs biminis to fit the structure that already exists, or we can start with a new frame (not normally necessary if one already exists). We NEVER use an old bimini as a template. We always pattern new to insure a correct fitment. In the example above we have a navy Sunbrella bimini for the cockpit and a small bimini in front of that for a sailboat usually referred to as a "dodger". In the picture below you will see a dodger complete with a polycarbonate window enclosure. 

Powerboats usually have either a bimini or a hard top. Boats that have a bimini will have zippers added to the inside perimeter of the bimini for window attachment. Boats with a hard top usually employ the use of keder track to hang the windows. Most often times we apply a zipper to the keder for easy window installation and removal. Some boats have built in channels for the keder to slide into from the factory so in many cases no additional keder track installation is necessary. If not, we typically use Costa brand pre-drilled keder track. 

 

 

 

TUFFAK^® AR

Please visit their website for more information.

TUFFAK AR Replacement Glazing Polycarbonate (plaskolite.com)

We recommend the use of Tuffak AR (abrasion resistance). This option is a clear winner over Strataglass in terms of consistent clarity. This material is rather hard and slightly bendable so polycarbonate will not roll up like traditional eisenglass options. Usually, we figure out a way to swing the window inward and attach to the underside of the hardtop. In some cases, we can do the same with a bimini but not all. If not, we simply provide a custom fitted bag to store the window when not in use. Another advantage of the polycarbonate window is the low maintenance aspect. All you need to do is rinse it off! No special cleaners necessary. 

WHY CHOOSE CANVAS CREW FOR POLYCARBONATE?!

For polycarbonate, we use a heavier duty machine and Solarfix 4100 denier thread. The thickness and hardness of the material makes it difficult to sew with a common lightweight machine and thread found in most canvas and upholstery shops. We did this to ensure longevity of the stitch over the lifetime of the window. 

For more information, please send us a custom order request and we can get your project started TODAY!