Care and maintenance
of your new custom canvas product is important after the initial purchase. You purchased the very best custom made top or enclosure, now you need to maintain that pride of ownership for years to come.
Canvas
Your canvas should be washed at least once a year. You can wash it with a gentle detergent and a brush (rinse thoroughly). Also, you can wash it in a full size washing machine ( available at some laundry mats) Here in Merrillville - the one at 61St and Harrison has a super capacity washer . Air dry only. Canvas can not be put in dryer. It will shrink and/or burn. Poles may have to be adjusted since canvas will stretch and shrink over time.
Windows
Windows should be cleaned and polished regularly with a soft cloth. You can use any of the products designed for this, available at your local marine supply store. We recommend Mother plastic polish . which we have in stock. Furniture polish is not recommended since it can build up a residue.
Zippers
Zippers should be cleaned with a brush, and then a silicone spray should be applied. Be careful to not get it on the windows. Do not use the "stick" kind of lubricant. It leaves behind a residue that makes it difficult to operate the zipper. Bar soap can be added to ease in operation.
Fasteners
Fasteners should be lubricated regularly both on the boat and on the canvas. Any type of clear lubrication is fine. Grease should not be used as it will discolor the canvas. Some fasteners should be replaced if they have seen signs of wear.
Storage
It is always advisable to clean your canvas and windows before storage. They must be perfectly dry before storing.
Tarps should not be put on over canvas. Windy conditions can cause them to rub through the canvas, causing rips and holes, and costly repairs.
Canvas can be folded; windows cannot. Windows should be stored either lying flat with sheets or towels in between them or rolled up in a protective tube.
Traveling
Only covers specifically designed for on-the-road travel, should be used while Traveling. You should never trailer a boat with the enclosure or bimini top up. The high rate of wind speed can destroy them. If they do survive the trip, the dirt and grime will have scratched the glass or soiled the canvas.
Also, accidents can happen. If your top flies off, it could blind another driver!
Even covers that are designed for travel need to be cared for correctly. Do not use straps across the cover. The straps can cause chaffing, and ultimately, rip through the cover. Inflatable balls and intertube can be placed under cover making air and water flow off the cover better.