Boat Cover Reinforcement
 

Folks,

Just purchased a Carver Cover for Runabout w/ Walk Thru Transom - 21' X 102" (78121P). The cover fits great and does not pool even without a support system. I do have it pulled very tight with the tie down straps and am looking for suggestions on how to reinforce the cover at sharp points. Is there a specific product that has proven to be effective?

I am tempted to cut out some vinyl patches and glue to underside. Is there a glue that is recommended that will hold up to the heat/cold/rain? One that works well with vinyl and canvas?

On a related topic, I saw a post in the forum for a home made PVC support system that looks to be worth trying out.

LifeIsGood

Re: Boat Cover Reinforcement
 

Sounds like you are on the right track. I saw another boater use the hollow water noddle floaty cut into small sections to put over the cleats and rails. I don't know how the glue would hold up but I don't think it would hurt.

Re: Boat Cover Reinforcement
 

You could also consider the foam out of an old vest. If you have any old ones laying around, take out the foam sheets and place them on the edges or sew them into the cover.

Re: Boat Cover Reinforcement
 

Good ideas. Unfortunately, I do not have the equipment for sewing (especially thick canvas). Still curious to know if anyone has had good experience with glue. If so, what brand?

LifeIsGood

Re: Boat Cover Reinforcement
 

A quick Google search led me to this stuff:
HH-66 Vinyl Cement - HH 66 Contact Adhesive for Vinyl

Re: Boat Cover Reinforcement
 

3M cotact works fine. I used it to glue 1/2" thick carpet pad on one of my old boats' interior side of the cover. Sold the boat to a buddy and the cover is still useable after 3yrs.
1" pvc works cool as a skeleton support system. Seen it used lots here in Colorado:wink_thumbup:

Re: Boat Cover Reinforcement
 

I too bought my cover from Carver. My bimini has mounts on the top of the windshield frame and my OEM mooring cover had sewn in vinyl reinforcements, so I had the same done to my new cover. the local upholstery shop charged me $150 and did a fantastic job.