Shades for 260, can they be screwed

[Esk II]

Does anybody know if shades for the port llights and hatches can be screwed into the interior bulkhead of a Hunter 260. The ones for sale on this site come with half inch screws: however one reviewer stated that this screw was too long and penetrated the hull. I have read that screws should not be used inside the boat. We have made due with two sided tape and it has lasted for short periods.

My wife made very nice shades and we used two sided tape and velcro. They stayed for one year but recently have been falling. We like the shades but may purchase professional units. Can they be fastened via screws?? Or any advice on attaching the ones we have.

Thank you,

Earl Keim II

 

[cephius (Dave)]

Erlkeim,
There is a liner inside the actual hull that make up the cabin interior walls. I've used short screws to attach things, making sure to only screw into the liner.

While I wouldn't rule out the possibility, I think you would have to work hard to get a 1/2" screw through work, liner, and hull.

 

[soling42]

When in doubt drill a tiny hole and probe it with a piece of stiff wire. Do remember that there are electric wires behind the liner that run fwd. They're mostly in the cabin ceiling but screws can chafe the errant loose wire.

Shades are nice. There are some good example from other 26/260 owners if you search the knowledge base. Personally I simply took a large windshield shade with a Polynesian scene on the inside and cut out the window outline so they press into each window recess. Reflects the heat, easily replaced, makes the view from inside look like I'm anchored in the S Pacific and stows just about anywhere.

This season I'm making snap on sunbrella shades for the outside to protect the window while it bakes in the Fl sun.

Have a safe sailing season.
M&K

 

[sailingyayas]

where did you get your "patterns" to make these shades? I am searching for those and also a pattern for our 23.5 companion way as well. I like the idea of the snap on sunbrella too! Thank you-kathleen

 

[soling42]

K,
I think I used cardboard to make a template for the two sizes I'd need. Cut the final inserts slightly (maybe 1/4") larger so they fit snug and trim to your satisfaction with scissors. The left side is of course a mirror image of the right. I then laid it out on the largest windshield screen I could find so that my inside view was filled with Polynesian palms and turquoise water that was right side up.

They'll hold up at least a few yrs and reflect heat away from the interior. They don't black out the inside but it's much darker and cooler than with curtains. Thats been helpful in a marina with an obnoxious light(or neighbors) or if you just want to sleep in while at anchor. I rarely even take them out during the summer down here.


I typically use a screen in the companionway or lay the cabin top canvas down loosely (See pic)
have fun, Mike and Kelli

 

[Esk II]

Thank you for the info

Hi,
Thank you for the information. I love the windshield idea. With you help I have decided to use small brass screws to remount the existing curtians my wife made and also cut out some nice patterns as mentioned. Used together they may be great for insulation and privacy. I will be cautious with the screws but will be able to use small ones. Possibly a nice brass screw with a washer may give a nautical look.



Earl Keim II