Protect Your Boat and Enjoy Your Time on the Water with Bimini Tops and Covers
Spring and summer are the ideal times to take your boat out on the water and enjoy endless hours of fishing or simply lounging in the sun away from the crowds and chaos of the beaches. Of course, true boating enthusiasts insist any time of the year is perfect for water excursions. No matter when you decide to escape from the hassles of everyday life, Bimini tops and boat covers are crucial for protecting your boat as well as its occupants. At Charleston Upholstery Pros, we're here to help you keep your boat in top shape. Our expert team can equip your boat with the best canopy and cover or replace its existing ones.
Why Do You Need a Bimini Top?
One of the best things about spending a day on the water is being able to relax in the warm sun while enjoying the breeze coming from the water and the motion of the boat. That being said, the sun can become overbearing after a while. Bimini tops were designed with this in mind. They cover a portion of the deck to provide shade as needed. At the same time, they leave the remainder of the deck open to sunlight so you and your passengers can move from sun to shade as needed. Bimini tops also fold down to help prevent damage while towing your boat to and from the water.
The Importance of Boat Covers
Protecting everyone on the boat during an outing is important, but safeguarding the boat itself when it's not in use is equally crucial. Continually leaving the boat exposed to the elements causes fading, cracking, peeling, and other types of damage. Boat covers shield against wind, rain, extreme temperatures, and the sun's UV rays to extend the life of the boat and everything on it.
Different Types of Materials for Boat Tops and Covers
When choosing the right material for your Bimini top and boat cover, keep a few things in mind. First, the material needs to offer ultimate protection against the elements. It should also be able to thwart mold and mildew growth and withstand repeated use. Being easy to clean and care for are vital as well.
Vinyl is a popular option because of its durability, stain resistance, and simple care requirements. Fabric consisting of a blend of acrylic and polyester also works well. It's among the more expensive alternatives, but it holds up nicely against fading and repeated use. We recommend Sunbrella outdoor fabrics because of their protective qualities and longevity. Each of these materials is available in a wide range of colors, so you can easily customize your boat and coordinate with its upholstery and paint scheme.
Make the Most of Your Time on the Water
At Charleston Upholstery Pros, we're dedicated to helping you protect your investment and make the most of your time on the water. If your Bimini top or boat cover has seen better days, we'll create custom designs to suit your needs and meet your expectations. For those who don't have tops or covers, we'll manufacture custom-made options to meet the full range of unique requirements.
Attention to detail makes a world of difference when it comes to extending the life of your boat. Our experts cover all the bases from custom fitting to ensuring the seams and stitching are flawless, so bring your boat to us and find out for yourself why so many people choose us for their boat upholstery needs.
Protecting Your Boat with a High-Quality Boat Cover
Boat owners depend on their vessels to be ready when they want to use them. Being able to venture out on the water for a day of fishing, swimming, and time with friends and family means ensuring the boat is always in water-worthy shape, though. Far too many people have planned for an outing only to find their boat upholstery is cracked and faded while the hull and deck are peeling and covered in mold and mildew. You can prevent damage and avoid disappointment by investing in a high-quality boat cover.
At Charleston Upholstery Pros, we're experts in top-of-the-line boat covers. Our team has the knowledge and experience needed to create the perfect custom cover built just for your boat. From selecting the right material to ensuring every stitch is sturdy enough to hold up to the elements, we cover all the bases to help you protect your investment.
Choosing the Right Cover for Your Boat
When searching for boat covers, you'll find a wide range of options to choose from. Plenty of standard, pre-made covers are on the market right now. They're relatively inexpensive and come in a variety of colors and materials. Of course, they're made to fit several types and sizes of boats. They're manufactured based on the centerline and beam measurements of various models. That means they may be too large or slightly too small for your specific model. Though they'll technically fit, they'll also leave quite a bit of room for moisture, UV rays, and other hazards to take their toll on your boat.
You also have your choice between new and used boat covers. There's a distinct possibility of finding a used cover for sale that was made for a model similar to your own. It'll fit better than a one-size-fits-all cover, but used items come with their fair share of problems. It might be stretched out and have weakened seams due to prolonged exposure to the elements. It might also have hidden tears and frayed spots that would leave your boat vulnerable to damage.
Customized Boat Covers
Tailor-made boat covers are, by far, the better option. They're made for your boat rather than a long list of models with similar measurements. We'll design a custom cover for your boat based on the model, length, width, beam, console style, and other specific measurements at various points. In the end, you'll have a cover that fits your boat perfectly. As such, it will minimize the risk of weathering, mold, mildew, and other hazards that could detract from the appearance and lifespan of your boat.
Let Us Help You Get the Most out of Your Boat
Customized boat covers should offer numerous benefits on top of their tailored fit. These include durability as well as water, mold, mildew, and stain resistance. Our covers also include reinforced seams designed to last for years. When you bring your boat cover needs to Charleston Upholstery Pros, you can rest assured we'll cover all those points and more. Contact us, and let us help you protect your boat while it's not in use so it'll be in top-notch shape when you're ready to head out on the water.
Answering Common Questions about Boat Seat Upholstery
More than 87 million people enjoy recreational boating, and the number continues to grow each year. Almost 12 million own their own boats. Some purchase new models whereas others look for used ones. Either way, the need for boat seat upholstery services is bound to arise. For some, this comes about sooner rather than later. It's important to fully understand boat seating and proper care techniques, so we're going to answer some of the most common questions about these topics to help you keep your vessel in top-notch condition.
What Are Boat Seats Made of?
Underneath the cushiony exterior, boat seat bases are made of either wood or plastic. If the former is in place, it's usually either treated or marine-grade plywood. Marine-grade wood consists of layers of wood and waterproof glue to help keep out moisture. Manufacturers apply chemicals to treated wood to make it more resistant to moisture, mold, and mildew. Some are also treated with insecticides. Plastic seat frames are typically made of PVC.
On top of the basic framework, you'll have some type of padding for added softness. Then, the bases and paddings are covered with some type of fabric. All these components work together to improve comfort levels and durability.
What Is the Best Type of Foam for Boat Seats?
Various types of foam are used for boat seating with the three most common being high-, medium-, and low-density polyurethane. Polyurethane for this purpose is a flexible but highly durable plastic. Low-density polyurethane foam offers the least amount of softness and support while high-density provides maximum cushioning. Medium-density varieties offer a middle ground between the two.
In most cases, polyurethane foam for boat seats and other outdoor applications is extremely moisture resistant. It's also antimicrobial, meaning it's designed to thwart bacterial growth as well as mold, mildew, and other microorganisms. This helps make it more suitable for outdoor use and ensures it'll remain in good condition for longer periods of time despite being exposed to rain, lake water, and other elements.
What Types of Fabric Should I Use for Upholstering My Boat Seats?
When upholstering boat seats, you should always choose marine-grade materials. These are usually made of vinyl. They'll hold up against exposure to the elements much better than standard fabrics and won't fade as quickly. They'll also resist fungal growth and withstand repeated use. Vinyl fabrics won't tear or puncture quite as easily as other types of fabrics, either. Numerous colors, patterns, and designs are available, so finding one that suits your needs and preferences shouldn't be difficult.
Are Boat Seats Completely Waterproof?
The short answer here is no. Though every component that goes into marine seating is designed to prevent moisture penetration and other hazards, they're not completely waterproof. Eventually, wood framework will succumb to moisture, and even antimicrobial outdoor foam can soak up water and allow mold, mildew, and bacteria to grow. At the same time, marine-grade fabrics are vulnerable to moisture at their seams. Using UV-resistant thread for stitching and applying a specialized seam sealant can help ensure your boat seats will last longer.
What Is the Proper Way to Care for Boat Seats?
When cleaning marine upholstery, many people's first instinct is to use bleach. This isn't advisable because it can cause excess fading and break down any protective coatings on the materials. Instead, be sure to use cleansers specifically designed for marine-grade fabrics. These include 303 Aerospace Protectant and IOSSO Stain Remover. They'll help remove dirt, saltwater residue, mold, and stains without damaging the fabric, foam, and other seat components.
It's also important to take the proper measures when storing your boat. Anytime the boat isn't in use, keep a protective cover over it to safeguard it from the elements. This will help reduce undue wear and tear, drying, fading, and cracking of the upholstery while extending the life of your boat's other components as well.
Boat seating won't last forever, but using the right materials and protective measures can certainly reduce the need for replacement and reupholstering. If your boat seats need a revamp or you're simply looking to update their appearance, don't hesitate to contact Charleston Upholstery Pros for help. We're here to answer any other questions you may have or provide marine upholstery services to keep your boat in optimal shape.
Give Your Used Boat a New Look with Marine Reupholstery Services
Millions of people enjoy boating and fishing, and the numbers continue to grow with each passing year. Of course, that means numerous people are upgrading from their old boats to bigger, newer, and faster models. If you're looking to purchase a boat for the first time or want to move on to a better model than the one you have, purchasing a used one might be the perfect option. With so many people selling their old boats, you're bound to find one on the market that suits your needs. That being said, it's important to keep a few things in mind during your search.
Check All the Basics
Most boats endure a great deal of use and stress while they're out on the water and being towed back and forth. You may luck up and find a barely used model with only a few miles on it, but that's not very likely. When you're looking at boats you might be interested in buying, be sure to check all the important points that receive the brunt of the wear and tear.
Key areas for consideration include the motor, motor mounts, propeller, electrical system, and hull. The last thing you want is to purchase a boat only to get it out on the water and find out it doesn't run or, maybe even worse, doesn't float. Check the motor and prop for signs of corrosion or rust. Remove the dipstick and smell the oil. If it smells burnt, the engine has probably been overheating for a while, which could indicate extensive damage.
Also, wipe the dipstick on a clean rag or paper towel. If the oil soaks into the cloth or paper towel fairly quickly or appears to spread, there may be fuel in the oil. This is a sign of a fuel leak and could mean seals, bearings, and other components have sustained damage.
When it comes to the hull, look for major dents, cracks, and gaps in joints where pieces of the hull come together. Any of these problems may mean the boat has been in a crash or, at the very least, treated roughly. These are only a few of the potential problems you may find with used boats. As is the case with a car or motorcycle, consider allowing a qualified mechanic to check it over before signing on the dotted line.
Don't Sweat Cosmetic Damage
Signs of engine and hull damage and other major issues shouldn't be ignored because they can make for expensive and time-consuming repairs. They may even cost more than you planned to spend on a boat to begin with. That's not necessarily the case with cosmetic issues, though. Having a rough paint job or upholstery that looks a bit worse for wear can easily be fixed, and those repairs are typically more affordable than other issues.
Applying a fresh coat of paint can work wonders for the exterior of the boat. Single- or two-part polyurethane paint is a popular choice for boats. Keep in mind, different paints are designed to be used above and below the waterline. Having the seats reupholstered with marine-grade foam and fabrics and installing new carpet go a long way toward sprucing up the interior of the boat as well.
Save Money and Get the Most from a Used Boat
Used boats are the more affordable option as long as you know which problems and warning signs to look out for. Chances are you won't find one in perfect shape, though. Don't be overly concerned with purely cosmetic issues. Bring the boat to us, and let us give new life to the rundown interior with expert boat reupholstery services.
Spring and summer are the ideal times to take your boat out on the water and enjoy endless hours of fishing or simply lounging in the sun away from the crowds and chaos of the beaches. Of course, true boating enthusiasts insist any time of the year is perfect for water excursions. No matter when you decide to escape from the hassles of everyday life, Bimini tops and boat covers are crucial for protecting your boat as well as its occupants. At Charleston Upholstery Pros, we're here to help you keep your boat in top shape. Our expert team can equip your boat with the best canopy and cover or replace its existing ones.
Why Do You Need a Bimini Top?
One of the best things about spending a day on the water is being able to relax in the warm sun while enjoying the breeze coming from the water and the motion of the boat. That being said, the sun can become overbearing after a while. Bimini tops were designed with this in mind. They cover a portion of the deck to provide shade as needed. At the same time, they leave the remainder of the deck open to sunlight so you and your passengers can move from sun to shade as needed. Bimini tops also fold down to help prevent damage while towing your boat to and from the water.
The Importance of Boat Covers
Protecting everyone on the boat during an outing is important, but safeguarding the boat itself when it's not in use is equally crucial. Continually leaving the boat exposed to the elements causes fading, cracking, peeling, and other types of damage. Boat covers shield against wind, rain, extreme temperatures, and the sun's UV rays to extend the life of the boat and everything on it.
Different Types of Materials for Boat Tops and Covers
When choosing the right material for your Bimini top and boat cover, keep a few things in mind. First, the material needs to offer ultimate protection against the elements. It should also be able to thwart mold and mildew growth and withstand repeated use. Being easy to clean and care for are vital as well.
Vinyl is a popular option because of its durability, stain resistance, and simple care requirements. Fabric consisting of a blend of acrylic and polyester also works well. It's among the more expensive alternatives, but it holds up nicely against fading and repeated use. We recommend Sunbrella outdoor fabrics because of their protective qualities and longevity. Each of these materials is available in a wide range of colors, so you can easily customize your boat and coordinate with its upholstery and paint scheme.
Make the Most of Your Time on the Water
At Charleston Upholstery Pros, we're dedicated to helping you protect your investment and make the most of your time on the water. If your Bimini top or boat cover has seen better days, we'll create custom designs to suit your needs and meet your expectations. For those who don't have tops or covers, we'll manufacture custom-made options to meet the full range of unique requirements.
Attention to detail makes a world of difference when it comes to extending the life of your boat. Our experts cover all the bases from custom fitting to ensuring the seams and stitching are flawless, so bring your boat to us and find out for yourself why so many people choose us for their boat upholstery needs.
Protecting Your Boat with a High-Quality Boat Cover
Boat owners depend on their vessels to be ready when they want to use them. Being able to venture out on the water for a day of fishing, swimming, and time with friends and family means ensuring the boat is always in water-worthy shape, though. Far too many people have planned for an outing only to find their boat upholstery is cracked and faded while the hull and deck are peeling and covered in mold and mildew. You can prevent damage and avoid disappointment by investing in a high-quality boat cover.
At Charleston Upholstery Pros, we're experts in top-of-the-line boat covers. Our team has the knowledge and experience needed to create the perfect custom cover built just for your boat. From selecting the right material to ensuring every stitch is sturdy enough to hold up to the elements, we cover all the bases to help you protect your investment.
Choosing the Right Cover for Your Boat
When searching for boat covers, you'll find a wide range of options to choose from. Plenty of standard, pre-made covers are on the market right now. They're relatively inexpensive and come in a variety of colors and materials. Of course, they're made to fit several types and sizes of boats. They're manufactured based on the centerline and beam measurements of various models. That means they may be too large or slightly too small for your specific model. Though they'll technically fit, they'll also leave quite a bit of room for moisture, UV rays, and other hazards to take their toll on your boat.
You also have your choice between new and used boat covers. There's a distinct possibility of finding a used cover for sale that was made for a model similar to your own. It'll fit better than a one-size-fits-all cover, but used items come with their fair share of problems. It might be stretched out and have weakened seams due to prolonged exposure to the elements. It might also have hidden tears and frayed spots that would leave your boat vulnerable to damage.
Customized Boat Covers
Tailor-made boat covers are, by far, the better option. They're made for your boat rather than a long list of models with similar measurements. We'll design a custom cover for your boat based on the model, length, width, beam, console style, and other specific measurements at various points. In the end, you'll have a cover that fits your boat perfectly. As such, it will minimize the risk of weathering, mold, mildew, and other hazards that could detract from the appearance and lifespan of your boat.
Let Us Help You Get the Most out of Your Boat
Customized boat covers should offer numerous benefits on top of their tailored fit. These include durability as well as water, mold, mildew, and stain resistance. Our covers also include reinforced seams designed to last for years. When you bring your boat cover needs to Charleston Upholstery Pros, you can rest assured we'll cover all those points and more. Contact us, and let us help you protect your boat while it's not in use so it'll be in top-notch shape when you're ready to head out on the water.
Answering Common Questions about Boat Seat Upholstery
More than 87 million people enjoy recreational boating, and the number continues to grow each year. Almost 12 million own their own boats. Some purchase new models whereas others look for used ones. Either way, the need for boat seat upholstery services is bound to arise. For some, this comes about sooner rather than later. It's important to fully understand boat seating and proper care techniques, so we're going to answer some of the most common questions about these topics to help you keep your vessel in top-notch condition.
What Are Boat Seats Made of?
Underneath the cushiony exterior, boat seat bases are made of either wood or plastic. If the former is in place, it's usually either treated or marine-grade plywood. Marine-grade wood consists of layers of wood and waterproof glue to help keep out moisture. Manufacturers apply chemicals to treated wood to make it more resistant to moisture, mold, and mildew. Some are also treated with insecticides. Plastic seat frames are typically made of PVC.
On top of the basic framework, you'll have some type of padding for added softness. Then, the bases and paddings are covered with some type of fabric. All these components work together to improve comfort levels and durability.
What Is the Best Type of Foam for Boat Seats?
Various types of foam are used for boat seating with the three most common being high-, medium-, and low-density polyurethane. Polyurethane for this purpose is a flexible but highly durable plastic. Low-density polyurethane foam offers the least amount of softness and support while high-density provides maximum cushioning. Medium-density varieties offer a middle ground between the two.
In most cases, polyurethane foam for boat seats and other outdoor applications is extremely moisture resistant. It's also antimicrobial, meaning it's designed to thwart bacterial growth as well as mold, mildew, and other microorganisms. This helps make it more suitable for outdoor use and ensures it'll remain in good condition for longer periods of time despite being exposed to rain, lake water, and other elements.
What Types of Fabric Should I Use for Upholstering My Boat Seats?
When upholstering boat seats, you should always choose marine-grade materials. These are usually made of vinyl. They'll hold up against exposure to the elements much better than standard fabrics and won't fade as quickly. They'll also resist fungal growth and withstand repeated use. Vinyl fabrics won't tear or puncture quite as easily as other types of fabrics, either. Numerous colors, patterns, and designs are available, so finding one that suits your needs and preferences shouldn't be difficult.
Are Boat Seats Completely Waterproof?
The short answer here is no. Though every component that goes into marine seating is designed to prevent moisture penetration and other hazards, they're not completely waterproof. Eventually, wood framework will succumb to moisture, and even antimicrobial outdoor foam can soak up water and allow mold, mildew, and bacteria to grow. At the same time, marine-grade fabrics are vulnerable to moisture at their seams. Using UV-resistant thread for stitching and applying a specialized seam sealant can help ensure your boat seats will last longer.
What Is the Proper Way to Care for Boat Seats?
When cleaning marine upholstery, many people's first instinct is to use bleach. This isn't advisable because it can cause excess fading and break down any protective coatings on the materials. Instead, be sure to use cleansers specifically designed for marine-grade fabrics. These include 303 Aerospace Protectant and IOSSO Stain Remover. They'll help remove dirt, saltwater residue, mold, and stains without damaging the fabric, foam, and other seat components.
It's also important to take the proper measures when storing your boat. Anytime the boat isn't in use, keep a protective cover over it to safeguard it from the elements. This will help reduce undue wear and tear, drying, fading, and cracking of the upholstery while extending the life of your boat's other components as well.
Boat seating won't last forever, but using the right materials and protective measures can certainly reduce the need for replacement and reupholstering. If your boat seats need a revamp or you're simply looking to update their appearance, don't hesitate to contact Charleston Upholstery Pros for help. We're here to answer any other questions you may have or provide marine upholstery services to keep your boat in optimal shape.
Give Your Used Boat a New Look with Marine Reupholstery Services
Millions of people enjoy boating and fishing, and the numbers continue to grow with each passing year. Of course, that means numerous people are upgrading from their old boats to bigger, newer, and faster models. If you're looking to purchase a boat for the first time or want to move on to a better model than the one you have, purchasing a used one might be the perfect option. With so many people selling their old boats, you're bound to find one on the market that suits your needs. That being said, it's important to keep a few things in mind during your search.
Check All the Basics
Most boats endure a great deal of use and stress while they're out on the water and being towed back and forth. You may luck up and find a barely used model with only a few miles on it, but that's not very likely. When you're looking at boats you might be interested in buying, be sure to check all the important points that receive the brunt of the wear and tear.
Key areas for consideration include the motor, motor mounts, propeller, electrical system, and hull. The last thing you want is to purchase a boat only to get it out on the water and find out it doesn't run or, maybe even worse, doesn't float. Check the motor and prop for signs of corrosion or rust. Remove the dipstick and smell the oil. If it smells burnt, the engine has probably been overheating for a while, which could indicate extensive damage.
Also, wipe the dipstick on a clean rag or paper towel. If the oil soaks into the cloth or paper towel fairly quickly or appears to spread, there may be fuel in the oil. This is a sign of a fuel leak and could mean seals, bearings, and other components have sustained damage.
When it comes to the hull, look for major dents, cracks, and gaps in joints where pieces of the hull come together. Any of these problems may mean the boat has been in a crash or, at the very least, treated roughly. These are only a few of the potential problems you may find with used boats. As is the case with a car or motorcycle, consider allowing a qualified mechanic to check it over before signing on the dotted line.
Don't Sweat Cosmetic Damage
Signs of engine and hull damage and other major issues shouldn't be ignored because they can make for expensive and time-consuming repairs. They may even cost more than you planned to spend on a boat to begin with. That's not necessarily the case with cosmetic issues, though. Having a rough paint job or upholstery that looks a bit worse for wear can easily be fixed, and those repairs are typically more affordable than other issues.
Applying a fresh coat of paint can work wonders for the exterior of the boat. Single- or two-part polyurethane paint is a popular choice for boats. Keep in mind, different paints are designed to be used above and below the waterline. Having the seats reupholstered with marine-grade foam and fabrics and installing new carpet go a long way toward sprucing up the interior of the boat as well.
Save Money and Get the Most from a Used Boat
Used boats are the more affordable option as long as you know which problems and warning signs to look out for. Chances are you won't find one in perfect shape, though. Don't be overly concerned with purely cosmetic issues. Bring the boat to us, and let us give new life to the rundown interior with expert boat reupholstery services.