Bimini options-Part1

[Andy1237]

Lets talk about bimini options-first edges where the frames go through.
Our forward bimini has a fully sewn slot. Simple but requires frame detachment to remove or furl fabric.
Our aft bimini has zippers. Easy but prone to wear and not as durable as fully sewn. But makes it easy to remove.
Velcro? Never seen it, don't think it would hold well enough.
Lacing with grommets? It seems like I have seen this. More difficult than zipper but simple and durable. Would still make it able to remov or furlfabric without detaching frame. .

I have also seen leather sewn to edges, I guess for added durability.

What is yours like, would you change, if you made it again, what would you do?

 

[Jerry Clark H356 SV Persi]

Good quality installation of Zippers is fine

I finished my 6th season on my bimini, dodger and full aft enclosure. It uses zippers and was very well made by Creative Canvas of Grand Rivers, Ky. They are an outstanding canvas shop! My panels zip on and off and the rear enclosure panels go in October and come off in mid April. My front dodger center panel zips on sides and rolls up. I use some silicone spray lubricant on them in the spring and fall and they work fine. If I were having it remade, I wouldn't change anything.

 

[Andy1237]

Jerry, thanks for chiming in. Do you have two zippers-one for the frame and another for your "windshield"? I would like to see how that is made. Would love to run over to KyLake, but ... Post a close up pick if you can. I have my bimini off now and I contemplating modifications. Would love to have the full enclosure deal-lets toak about that in Part II

 

[Paul8789]

I recently replaced my zippers with twist buttons. This has only been a week so I don't know what service they will give. The zippers would become brittle and loose teeth. I sail on the Gulf Coast of Florida and the conditions can be rather harsh. Just another option.
Wyliejac

 

[Jerry Clark H356 SV Persi]

Frame is enclosed in pocket

The top and side frames are enclosed in sunbrella pockets that are sewn on one side and zippered on the other, completing the frame pocket. Braces are exposed and the bottom is attached with a combination of twist type snap fasteners and regular fasteners. These photos are the best I have at the present to show how it is made.

I used the upgraded sunbrella and stratiglas in all but the rear panels of the enclosure that I remove during the warm months.

One important thing about the enclosure is that it adds a month to each side of our sailing season here at Kentucky Lake. I have sailed in March, 40 degrees, 30 knot winds on a suuny day in a sweatshirt without a jacket. The enclosure acts like a greenhouse and is plenty warm while the sun is up.

If it works, you will see the front in the attached movie.

 

[Jerry Clark H356 SV Persi]

Photo didn't loads - trying again!

I think it was the movie! Left it off this time.