Next message: Kerry Nelson: "T&T: LectraSan & holding tanks"
Sunbrella of almost any color will last a very long time in the sun. It is a
naturally UV resistant polymer, polyacrylonitrile. My bimini top has a vinyl
undercoat behind the Sunbrella. The top is now 13 years old. It has been up
every summer and winter except one. The past 3 winters were in Florida. The
vinyl undercoat helps maintain water repellency so long as you do not fold the
top. Folding introduces cracks.
I'd also recommend the new Gore-Tex thread which is said to outlast polyester
several fold. I've had to resew twice. The original lasted 7-8 years, the
first repair lasted only 4-5. The recent one was done with the Gore-Tex
thread.
The other weak link used to be the zippers. They were made of a non-UV
stabilized acetal. Great natural lubricity and strength, but very poor UV
resistance. In the past two or three years, both Lenzip and YKK have
introduced UV resistant grades of acetal zippers which ought to last several
times longer. Be sure to get the new materials.
The vinyl should do reasonably well so long as it is vertical. If sloped to
get the sun's rays more directly, it will last a shorter time. I have only had
to replace the aft drops from the arch which are at a 45 degree angle to the
horizon.
Disclaimer: In my previous life I was instrumental in getting both zipper
manufacturers to convert to better materials. No current affiliations etc.
Regards,
Bob
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