Question About Mesh Dodger Window Covers

[Rick D]

I had an overpriced replacement dodger made about four and a half years ago. The prior one lasted ten plus years. I had Strataglass clear vinyl windows on the old one, and at ten years, they were still very good. When I replaced that dodger, I again called out for $trataglass. However, I asked the constructor about making mesh window covers instead of solid and asked him if that would be adequate protection. He said yes.
Preparing for a recent trip to Mexico, I noticed that the dodger front covers (west facing) had deteriorated in terms of color, and that the clear vinyl windows had picked up a blue tint, reducing my vision, especially at low-light or night. I used a Strataglass polish and cleaner which didn't seem to make a difference. Anyhow, it make for leaving a couple of urban harbors at night a real challenge. I was grateful my sharp-eyed wife could help ID the buoys for me from outside.
So, whether I got the premium materials I had asked for is questionable. After a couple of more cleanings and no covers for a month, I think the windows may have lost their tint and are clear again. So, I may not need to replace them after all. However, I will not put the mesh covers back on and will have solid covers made.
My question is whether any of you have had this happen to you? I wasn't happy with the canvas guy, so I won't ask his opinion. Comments welcome.

 

[jeepbluetj]

I've never used mesh covers, but logic tells me If visible light gets through the mesh, the UV will too. It'll damage the vinyl, just less than leaving it completely exposed.

Interestingly, the side windows on my dodger were damaged even with full covers from the UV coming in from the back/inside. (stern points west when it's in the slip). I replaced them with a lesser vinyl as they're really not "looked through" when navigating.

 

[thinwater]

"Mesh" does not tell us much. What was the product? I've got admit, also, that to me it makes zero sense.

The side and forward covers on my PDQ enclosure were rigged slightly out, like amnings, so that they would not rub on the vinyl. The sky light laid flat (Sunbrella) but did not flap in any wind. Those windows were still perfect after 18 years. I did restich and rebed the spaps.

 

[Rick D]

"Mesh" does not tell us much. What was the product? I've got admit, also, that to me it makes zero sense.

The side and forward covers on my PDQ enclosure were rigged slightly out, like amnings, so that they would not rub on the vinyl. The sky light laid flat (Sunbrella) but did not flap in any wind. Those windows were still perfect after 18 years. I did restich and rebed the spaps.

The "mesh" dodger window covers were supposed to be Sunbrella. However, I don't think they are. I think Sunbrella refers to the material as wolven. I had some made before for another application. They are thinner and more flexible than what is on the dodger. Regardless, if I don't have to replace the windows, I will greatfully replace the covers with solid Sunbrella. As I said, I don't want to risk it. Oh, my prior Strataglass windows were labeled as such. The current lack that branding.