Has anyone used anything other than Sunbrella for cockpit covers, etc? We're considering adding a dodger, reworking the cockpit cover and adding an enclosure. Thanks! David
Something other than Sunbrella
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Why?
Why would you want to use anything else? Given the bulletproof nature and longevity of Sunbrella that cost is actually very reasonable. The main problem with a refit is the labor cost. I bought 30 yards of a wide roll(60") on E-Bay for about $9./yard including shipping. I can make a lot of stuff out of 30 yards. There are several types of "canvas" out there but you sure would not save much. Do a Google search to see types and cost. Be sure to research the weight, strength, and water resistance. Nice thing about Sunbrella, you already know it works.
Why would you want to use anything else? Given the bulletproof nature and longevity of Sunbrella that cost is actually very reasonable. The main problem with a refit is the labor cost. I bought 30 yards of a wide roll(60") on E-Bay for about $9./yard including shipping. I can make a lot of stuff out of 30 yards. There are several types of "canvas" out there but you sure would not save much. Do a Google search to see types and cost. Be sure to research the weight, strength, and water resistance. Nice thing about Sunbrella, you already know it works.
Seamark is better for me
Seamark is Sunbrella with vinyl heat fused to the underside. The cost difference is minimal but the benefits are superior: never leaks even when touched, looks great, outside can be cleaned with a soft brush without losing waterproofing, the inside can be cleaned with soap and water or any spray like 409 and a sponge to keep mildew in check and it does not get the "Sunbrella Sag" in heavy dew weather. None of these can be done with Sunbrella. Yes, Sunbrella is good, but Seamark technology has surpassed it. Any canvas shop can quote both and the difference should be around $100 or less for a dodger. The majority by far of the sailboats we do at Boat Tailors are now done with Seamark. The related link below explains the properties of Sunbrella, Seamark and another highest quality product - Stamoid.
Seamark is Sunbrella with vinyl heat fused to the underside. The cost difference is minimal but the benefits are superior: never leaks even when touched, looks great, outside can be cleaned with a soft brush without losing waterproofing, the inside can be cleaned with soap and water or any spray like 409 and a sponge to keep mildew in check and it does not get the "Sunbrella Sag" in heavy dew weather. None of these can be done with Sunbrella. Yes, Sunbrella is good, but Seamark technology has surpassed it. Any canvas shop can quote both and the difference should be around $100 or less for a dodger. The majority by far of the sailboats we do at Boat Tailors are now done with Seamark. The related link below explains the properties of Sunbrella, Seamark and another highest quality product - Stamoid.
Why not?
solution dyed acrylic canvas comes in other brands. Just as important (if not more so) is the thread. I use bonded polyester V69. Cut it with a hot knife to seal (melt) the edges.
solution dyed acrylic canvas comes in other brands. Just as important (if not more so) is the thread. I use bonded polyester V69. Cut it with a hot knife to seal (melt) the edges.
Stamoid,
another (single or double) vinyl coated "sunbrella", has held up remarkably well for the past 4 and a half seasons on my 420... I have to agree with John... it IS worth spending the extra money.
another (single or double) vinyl coated "sunbrella", has held up remarkably well for the past 4 and a half seasons on my 420... I have to agree with John... it IS worth spending the extra money.
Working with Stamoid
How is working with Stamoid compaired to Sunbrella? And, what's the best place to purchase? -David
How is working with Stamoid compaired to Sunbrella? And, what's the best place to purchase? -David
Would not use for any sail covers!
These products may be fine for bimini & dodgers, but I would not use them for sail covers. I think that you want a product that would have some breath-ability to prevent sail from mildew & mold. If you are looking for something that is waterproof, these other products may be good, but they are also 2 times the price of Sunbrella, so I hope you get 2 times the life out of the product. We have a sail cover that has lasted for over 15 years. We just put a patch on it where the sun has finally taken it toll. I have spoken with many canvas makers and no one has ever recommended these other products. That does not indicate that there are not other better products out there, but I would be skeptical.
These products may be fine for bimini & dodgers, but I would not use them for sail covers. I think that you want a product that would have some breath-ability to prevent sail from mildew & mold. If you are looking for something that is waterproof, these other products may be good, but they are also 2 times the price of Sunbrella, so I hope you get 2 times the life out of the product. We have a sail cover that has lasted for over 15 years. We just put a patch on it where the sun has finally taken it toll. I have spoken with many canvas makers and no one has ever recommended these other products. That does not indicate that there are not other better products out there, but I would be skeptical.
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