Bimini Tops

Bimini tops can make a real difference in your boating comfort, protecting you from direct sun and rain. They're easy to put up and take down for storage.

Which Material?

Cotton Duck

Inexpensive, but won't last as long as other fabrics due to UV degradation, and tends to leak.

Vinyl

The most popular choice because it's waterproof and will divert water to the sides of the top for runoff. Vinyls range in quality from low to very high, and are easy to clean.

"Solution-Dyed" Polyester

We feel that they offer the best value for colored biminis. Polyester that is solution-dyed has an extremely rich color and holds up very well to UV-rays for less fading. Polyester tops are very strong and resist stretching so they retain their shape. They're more water repellent and abrasion resistant than acrylics, but will fade faster.

Acrylic

This top-of-the-line soft woven fabric looks and feels terrific. It holds up well to UV rays and has exceptional fade resistance and strength. However, it has a tendency to stretch and sag, and is prone to leaking. Acrylic tops are usually more expensive, but not as abrasion resistant.

Frames

Bimini top frames are available in aluminum and stainless steel. In freshwater environments, aluminum is probably adequate for your needs and much more economical. Aluminum tubing should be anodized to resist pitting and oxidation. Stainless steel is much stronger, will not corrode, and is nearly twice as expensive as aluminum. Plus, stainless steel's strength allows you to travel at higher speeds, so it's the ideal choice for powerboats. For saltwater applications, stainless steel is well worth the extra cost.

Tube size ranges from 1Ú2-1" OD; 7Ú8" is standard and provides plenty of strength in both metals. Whether the tubing is drawn or extruded has a profound effect on the strength of the tubing. Drawn tubing is pulled through the die process, giving it a denser consistency and more strength. Extruded tubing may have weak spots because it's pushed through the die process.

Fittings

Fittings are available in nylon and stainless steel. Nylon is relatively strong and weather resistant. Plus, nylon fittings (which are far less expensive to replace) will break before the tubing bends in stressful situations. Stainless fittings are more expensive, but are the strongest and most durable. Coated brass fittings are inexpensive but they have a tendency to corrode and peel.

Helpful Accessories

Slide tracks allow you to install the top onto the track rather than directly onto your boat so you can slide the entire bimini to different locations. This also makes it easier to fold the top down in the optimal location when not in use.

Storage

Always take the bimini down for winter storage. Bimini tops should be cleaned, dried and stored for the winter or whenever your boat is laid up for long periods. They should not be used as substitutes for a winter cover. Storm winds or snow load can destroy a bimini in a season. How to Select Your Bimini Top

1) Length Decide what length you need, 6' or 8'. Be sure not to order a top that is too long.

2) Width Measure where the top attaches on one side of the boat to the same location on the opposite side of the boat. This measurement is not the same as the beam of the boat or boat width.

3) Height The correct height is one that enhances the good looks of the boat and is functional (so you could stand under it if desired).