Framing Question for Fairclough owners

[Solstice]

Hello all,

For those of you who own full frame Fairclough cover systems; has anyone tried using something like shrinkwrap strapping tape in lieu of Furring strips? I'm looking for a way to eliminate the need to transport/store the furring strips for logistical reasons. I'm confident that I could get the strapping tape tight enough to keep the legs/ridges stable, but I'm wondering about snow weight on the 'eave' or pitch...

I would appreciate any feedback. Thanks in advance...

 

[lehighsail]

A while ago, I started using 3/4 inch PVC plumbing piping instead of the furring strips. Using the connectors, end caps and piping, that I have labeled as to location, it goes up and comes down quickly. I cover the ends with foam and tape it to prevent chaffing. I attach the PVC under the iron ribs. All is connected with 3M strapping tape (never use generic). Works well and is easier to transport and store than the wood.

 

[Solstice]

A while ago, I started using 3/4 inch PVC plumbing piping instead of the furring strips. Using the connectors, end caps and piping, that I have labeled as to location, it goes up and comes down quickly. I cover the ends with foam and tape it to prevent chaffing. I attach the PVC under the iron ribs. All is connected with 3M strapping tape (never use generic). Works well and is easier to transport and store than the wood.

Thanks lehigh,

I do use the 3M 893 strapping tape for securing everything. I was referring to the strapping (not really a tape in the sticky sense) used for shrinkwrapping.
I'm hoping to find a solution that doesn't require storage of additional pieces, so the PVC isn't really a good option for me. Thanks though...

 

[Rich Stidger]

I use the wood strips- always have. I am surprised that the PVC pipe works- I would have expected tha it would be too flexible and would not support a snow load. But I also agree on the 3M tape vs generic- the 3M is much better.

I solved the logistical problem of transportation and summer storage with a custom trailer. I got a free boat trailer that was in bad shape. I stripped the trailer and rebuilt it completely- wiring, wheels, wire brush and paint. The I built a plywood box that was about 3.5-4 feet wide and 12 feet long and bolted it to the frame. The cover is a heavy piece of canvas to which I added grommets for a lacing line.

Although the picture below shows the wood sticking out, I have since cut the wood to be 12 feet long so that it all fits inside. The metal frame, wood strips, and cover pieces are stored in this trailer during the summer and I simply haul the trailer to my boat in the Fall and Spring for covering/uncovering.

I also use it to store my on-the-hard boarding ladder and scaffold ladder for the Spring buff and wax jobs. During the winter I store my sails in their sail bags as well. Buckets, extra hoses,and lots of other stuff that I only use for the boat is stored so I have everything in one spot.

 

[Tim R.]

Thanks lehigh,

I do use the 3M 893 strapping tape for securing everything. I was referring to the strapping (not really a tape in the sticky sense) used for shrinkwrapping.
I'm hoping to find a solution that doesn't require storage of additional pieces, so the PVC isn't really a good option for me. Thanks though...

The strapping used for shrink wrapping should be strong enough for this purpose. Just make sure you secure either end to the boat to prevent the whole frame from falling over together.

 

[Solstice]

The strapping used for shrink wrapping should be strong enough for this purpose. Just make sure you secure either end to the boat to prevent the whole frame from falling over together.

Thanks Tim. If I go this route, I would attach it to the pulpit and stern and tie off each rib individually. The reason I thought of this approach is because when I shrink wrapped before buying the cover, I know you can get the strapping very tight. I will probably do at least three for and aft runs as well....