Bimini Top Material

[Ray Kautzky]

I'm getting the top replace on my 2000 model in the spring. The original white top is that vinyl coated denim type material. This product has not stood up very well and will not be used again. Not sure of the brand.

I like the white on the boat so I'm looking at either Sunbrella Plus or Stamoid. Looking for any feedback on these 2 products in white. Have used Sunbrella on most boats in the past but dark colours. Stamoid looks like it may be better at being stain resistant. Anyone have any other products they used in white? How's it holding up?

 

[Mike Ryan]

i have to find out the name of the stuff i had on my last boat... ill see if i can locate it
here is a pic. you can see its a true white, and it held up good and was easy to keep white. i'll see if i have a closer pic of it, and the brand of what it was. i have only seen one other boat with it

 

[bruceb]

I would suggest going with a material like Sunbrella. I am not sure I would use a woven material like Sunbrella in a white color though.

 

[divedaddy]

I think if I wanted white, I would talk to a sail shop that also does canvas. There sure area a lot of white sails around that don't seem to collect mildew. Another option would be a heavy-duty vinyl such as used on auto convertible tops.

IF you go with a more traditional canvas, my only experience is that the "waterproof" version that are vinyl coated on the interior side (like Seamark) tend to trap dirt and mildew. I am having some custom canvas work done now and am avoiding the Seamerk product for just this reason.

 

[Bob J]

Convertible auto tops have been coated fabric. This would make the underside susceptible to moisture & mildew. Stay with a product made for marine usage.

 

[Nancy]

We had white Sumbrella on our previous boat. It looked great for the first couple of seasons, but after that, it was impossible to get completely clean. I wouldn't have white again.

Nancy