Boat
Covers and Tarps: Getting The Right Fit
You already
know (or you wouldn't be here) that a boat cover or tarpaulin reduces the possibility
of damage by adding a barrier of protection around the boat during transport and
storage. All boats are designed with
materials to protect the boat and its interior from saltwater and rain. But
only a quality boat cover can guard against ozone, UV rays, and dirt which can
cause irreparable damage to marine electronics, wiring, and upholstery. Even
with the best indoor boat storage, there is no immunity from insects, mice, and
dirt. When shopping for your cover,
don't be too quick to pick the first option that you're your brand and size. Whether
for a ski, bass, or pontoon boat, there are three general fit and style types
of boat tarp covers to be considered
Boat
Cover Styles
Universal
Fit:- Often called a boat or marine tarp, a universal boat cover is sized
to fit a fairly wide range of boat styles and sizes. Fitting is generally loose,
and requires straps or tie-downs to hold the boat tarp in place. For basic mooring
and storage, this is the simplest and lowest cost option. Custom
boat covers: Made directly from measurements taken on a specific model of
boat, these are the best you can get. Custom boat covers are perfect for trailering,
storage, and mooring. Getting the perfect fit assume your boat has not been altered
from the way it originally came from the factory. Semi-Custom
fit: Designed to match hundreds of boat models, a semi-custom boat cover is
tailored to fit specific "styles" of boats such as Tri-hulls, Deep V's,
or Pontoons. Semi-custom designs come in progressive lengths of 1 foot increments.
As the cover length increases, the beam width would tend to follow suit.
The
snug, tailored fit of the custom and semi-custom boat covers keeps out more harmful
elements, and makes them more stable during heavy wind and rain than a standard
boat tarp cover. Less fabric movement also means much less abrasion against the
finish of your boat Storage location
is a very important factor when choosing a boat tarp. Be sure the material is
durable enough to withstand extreme cold weather changes of Eastern and Midwest
states. UV protection is also important in prolonging the beauty of seats, and
instruments in the sun belt states.
Sizing
Your Boat CoverWhen measuring your
boat, use a non-stretching tape (such as a steel tape) to be sure you have accurate
dimensions. It's a good idea to take your own measurements, even if you have the
manufacturer's specifications. 1.
Finding the Centerline Length - Measure from the tip of the bow to the center
of the stern 2. Finding the Beam Width
- Measure the widest point of your boat. Be sure to include the rub-rail.. 3.
Add 1 foot to the centerline length if your boat has rails exceeding 6 inches
in height. Add one foot to the centerline length for trolling motor. If you have
any extensions (swim deck, platforms, etc.), add their length to the centerline
dimension if you want these extensions covered.
Boat
tarps and covers are available from a variety of reliable online merchants. We've
got more information on boat covers and their suppliers on the pages below.
More
Boat Covers Information | For
More Information: Boat
Cover Fabrics: A quick guide to the main choices in boat cover
materials. Boat
Covers: A quick guide to the main choices in boat covers. Portable
Boat Canopies: Consider using a vehicle canopy as a boat tarp alternative.
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