Top Fishing Gadgets: Bimini Top Covers
Bimini Top Covers: The cockpit of the boat is covered by an open-air canvas structure known as a bimini top. This structure is supported by metal frames. According to the triangle marine center, the name “bimini top” comes from the island of Bimini, which is located in the Bahamian Islands. This is also the location where the tops were first developed.
(Article about “What is a Bimini Top” on www.srsgroup.co.nz)
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What exactly is a “Bimini Top Cover”?
Do you own a boat of any kind? And are you seeking anything that will protect you from the sun? When this is the case, a bimini top might be of great assistance. In this blog post, I will try to tell you a little more about the Bimini Top Cover.
A Bimini top is also called a sun tent or sunroof. It is mounted on both sailing and motor boats. The frame is made of stainless steel. Additionally, the top itself can be extended with side and back flaps, creating a kind of “living space”.
The use of a bimini top will shield the rider from the sun. Make sure you get the correct bimini top and put it together by yourself.
People who have delicate skin and burn easily will like to take cover from the scorching sun under such a sun terrace. They can enjoy the wind and are somewhat sheltered from any rain showers.
Bimini Top Covers: What should you pay attention to when buying a Bimini top?
A Bimini top can be installed on practically every boat, but it is still important to check the size of your boat. If you would not qualify, you can still have such a “sunroof” made to measure at the manufacturer. Then you can specify the size there.
What most do not think about, and yet is important, is the speed of your boat. Check carefully what speed the Bimini top must be able to withstand.
Of course, you also have to consider the price and the quality, because that depends on when and how long you plan to use or keep this Bimini top. If you often go out on the water, it is best to choose a top that is more durable and therefore also somewhat more expensive than its competitors. However, if you only go “a few times” on the water, you can decide to renew regularly… When it comes to bimini tops, quality unquestionably pays off.
And what material should the frame consist of? Most choose aluminum, but there are also plastic ones. The price will also be different here.
Another thing many don’t think about is what the Bimini top will look like on your boat. Make sure you choose the right color or model that matches the look of your vessel.
Also important: how much warranty do you get on the product? Maybe you will find a top offer on Amazon?
How do you install a Bimini top?
This is a task that can be accomplished by virtually anyone who is even moderately handy. You can find a lot of helpful videos on YouTube, and if you run into any problems, you can consult an experienced sailmaker.
It will be his pleasure to provide you with the necessary explanations regarding the construction of the frame, the canvas, and the construction of the Bimini. It is not at all necessary for it to be costly in any way.
Rubber Boat or Dinghy
Rubber boat (or dinghy) owners don’t have to worry either, because there are even Biminis for their boats. You must glue special pedestals to the tube of your boat. Even though it looks hard, it’s not.
When the pedestals are set up, the Bimini has to be set up on them. Also, it can be helpful if the bases have an eye or universal screw thread. The top can then be attached with a line or a tension strap if needed.
Sailboat
It’s interesting to have a “skylight” in your Bimini top when sailing. Because it is useful to be able to keep an eye on your sails and cabling if you have to hide under your Bimini.
Recsystem
Excellent quality! One side of this acrylic fabric is already coated when it is made. You should be safe for about 10 years with this Bimini top.
Bimini Top Covers: How should the Bimini top be maintained?
It is obvious that your Bimini top can also be hit by filth, such as flies, mosquitoes, insects, bird droppings, etc… The sun, dust, and polluted water also have an influence. It is therefore also recommended to maintain your top.
As you continue to do this on a consistent basis, you will quickly realize that all of this “stuff” is less likely to stay to your Bimini as time goes on.
It is an interesting experience to have your Bimini treated against such grime so soon after making the purchase. This process is referred to as “impregnation.” By doing so, your top will maintain its brand-new appearance for a longer period of time, and it will also be protected against various types of algae and fungi. You want it to have a nice appearance, don’t you?
There are many items, including shampoos and sprays, that can be found in specialty stores as well as drugstores that can treat your Bimini. On the other hand, things can also be found on the website “Amazon.”
Most of these special products also make your Bimini top UV resistant.
The most important thing about a Bimini top are the materials.
We already know that it is better to use a stainless steel frame. Also good are aluminum, or sturdy plastic. First and foremost, what is the difference between stainless steel and aluminum? These 2 options are mainly used in sheet metal projects. They differ only in their compositions. While aluminum is a natural element, stainless steel is a so-called alloy. This is a mixture of different metals such as carbon and chromium. It also ensures that the finished product does not oxidize (or rust).
In addition to the frame of the Bimini, the quality of the canvas is of course very important. (or rather: the most important) It is of course the primary “protector” against the not so pleasant side effects of nature. Here are the most commonly used fabrics or cloths:
Vinalux
The material used here is PVC. This makes it extra waterproof and the top can easily last 5 years.
Markilux
And on top of that, it can still be better! How about a Bimini top that can last up to 20 years? (with regular maintenance of course). The canvas is irrefutably TOTALLY waterproof. As a result, the price is of course in the higher price range. Of course also UV-resistant with a lightfastness of approximately 7 or 8.
Sunbrella
From my perspective, this is one of the higher-quality sorts and brands of cloth available. It is possible to make it last for a very long period with only a small bit of upkeep. It has a stunningly sumptuous appearance and comes in a variety of hues to choose from. Additionally, the fabric itself has a very strong resistance against the damaging effects of UV light.
Reacrylic
This fabric has a really elegant appearance. About ten years is the typical lifespan of this kind of fabric. The impregnated acrylic used to make the canvas gives it a watertight finish.
KAKIT 750D 3 4 Bow Bimini Top Different Size Boat Cover Includes Rear Support Poles Straps All Steel Mounting Hardware Storage Boot with 1 Inch Aluminum Frame
- Surface UV Coating + PU Coating + 750D/260GSM Polyester Fabric = Marine Grade Fabric. Waterproof to 4000mm. Double overlapped stitching is stronger and more durable.
- Rear Support Poles – Our bimini top package includes two additional rear support poles to increase wind loading. Easy folding, saving space, and extremely convenient for future use. Other less expensive Amazon products lack rear support poles.
- Ample accessories include two rear support poles, two adjustable windproof straps, four-deck mounts, and one zippered storage boot. All mounting hardware is made of rust-resistant stainless steel, which is more corrosion-resistant than plastic. Marine-grade 316 Stainless Steel Deck Hinges with Quick Release Pin allow for simple installation and removal.
- Sturdy & Rust-Resistant Bows – Double-walled 1″ diameter 1.5mm thick aluminum frame for maximum strength, surface anti-oxidation spray paint, lightweight yet rust-resistant.
- Service & Warranty – 30 DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE, 3 YEAR REPLACEMENT WARRANTY, please contact us if you have any issues (missing accessories/tearing/fading, etc. ), and we will resolve them for you within 24 hours.
PROS and CONS from verified buyers on Amazon
As you can see there are both positive and negative impressions of the product… So you can clearly see that every person has his own opinion, and what is good for one person, is bad for another, and vice versa. Therefore, you can actually really rate the product if you try it out yourself. The choice is yours!
PROS
- Very very simple to assemble and install
- It’s an incredible value for the product you get.
- it is a perfect fit for the Jon boat.
- Worth the money
- Very nice quality!
- Overall, super happy with the product.
- The top material is thick and well-sown.
- The polls are made to last.
CONS
- I required swivel side mounts.
- It was advertised with self-tapping screws, but they are NOT.
- I lacked a frame-locking button.
- The stitching is coming apart on the canvas cover.
MSC 3 Bow Bimini Top Boat Cover with Rear Support Pole and Storage Boot, Color Gray,Pacific Blue,Burgundy,Navy,Beige,Forest Green,White,Black,Teal Available (Beige, 3 Bow 6’L x 46″ H x 54″-60″ W)
- Fabricated with 600D polyester canvas that has been coated twice with PU, marine-grade
- Aluminum framing that is 1 inch thick and resistant to corrosion
- Includes one storage boot and two poles for supporting the back.
- Sizes available:6 inch L x 46 inch H x 54 inch -60 inch W & 6 inch L x 46 inch H x 61 inch -66 inch W & 6 inch L x 46 inch H x 67 inch -72 inch W & 6 inch L x 46 inch H x 73 inch -78 inch W & 6 inch L x 46 inch H x 79 inch -84 inch W & 6 inch L x 46 inch H x 85 inch -90 inch W.
PROS and CONS from verified buyers on Amazon
As you can see there are both positive and negative impressions of the product… So you can clearly see that every person has his own opinion, and what is good for one person, is bad for another, and vice versa. Therefore, you can actually really rate the product if you try it out yourself. The choice is yours!
PROS
- Easy to install and looks great!
- Good quality materials.
- The Kono rod holder is awesome!
- Although made of plastic, the bracing and fixings seem sturdy.
- You can adjust the height of the top
- The rear support poles are great.
- Excellent design and engineering
- I am absolutely thrilled with the quality and look of this top on my boat.
- 2yr warranty on materials and 5yr warranty on frame.
- very nice sun screen
- Very good and stable!
CONS
- One of my straps wasn’t stitched together.
- The item for sale is a cover with 2 mesh storage pockets, the item I received does not have pockets.
- What I got was a Bimini with no cover for storage and no hardware for securing it to the boat.
- I wish i can give 0 star so dissapointed wifh this purchased.:(
- Broken after 3 use.
- I can’t believe amazon would do business with a company like this.
Leader Accessories 10 Colors 3 Bow Bimini Top Boat Cover 4 Straps for Front and Rear Includes Mounting Hardwares with 1 Inch Aluminum Frame
- Fabric options include marine-grade 600D polyester canvas and solution-dyed 600D fabric. Stitching with two overlaps.
- All stainless steel mounting hardware is included, as well as a color coordinated zippered storage boot and assembly instructions.
- Aluminum frame 1″ in diameter with double-walled main bow legs for maximum strength and free quick release mounts.
- Front and back nylon straps are adjustable.
- Beige, Black, Burgundy, Dark Grey, Green, Light Grey/White, Light Grey, Navy Blue, Navy Blue/White, Pacific Blue, Solution Dyed Light Grey, Teal, White are the optional fabric colors.
- 6’L x 46″H x 54″-60″W, 6’L x 46″H x 61″-66″W, 6’L x 46″H x 67″-72″W, 6’L x 46″H x 73″-78″W, 6’L x 46″H x 79″-84″W, and 6’L x 46″H x 85″-90″W
PROS and CONS from verified buyers on Amazon
As you can see there are both positive and negative impressions of the product… So you can clearly see that every person has his own opinion, and what is good for one person, is bad for another, and vice versa. Therefore, you can actually really rate the product if you try it out yourself. The choice is yours!
PROS
- All parts were well-packaged and great.
- Overall I am very pleased
- This cover was the perfect solution.
- A quality product!
- Fit perfect on my 10′ Livingston dinghy!
- Very fast shipping and great price.
- No way you can make one for this price.
- Very very happy indeed!
- Excellent craftsmanship!
- Love the storage boot that came with it.
- Looks fantastic on our pontoon!
- Stays sturdy till about 25 mph
CONS
- Under pressure, the straps are difficult to adjust.
- the screws were not self-tapping as stated
- go buy some stainless screws to mount it, as the included ones are not stainless
- the plastic hardware
- the canvas fades quickly
- Terrible instructions
- The cover does not stay zipped during towing.
- Air gets underneath and forces zipper to open.
- The instructions are not clear
- cheap metal buckle.
- Wish the straps were easier to adjust
Finally
This brings me to the conclusion of this article. I hope you enjoyed it, and please feel free to leave any questions, more information, comments, ambiguities, or untruths in the comments.