What Youll Need To Install A Bimini Top
On the upside, bimini tops usually come with all the screws, bolts, fasteners, and hardware that you need to mount them in place. Of course, they wont come with any tools however which means that youre going to have to prep the following on your own discretion:
- Measuring tape
- Center punch
- Power drill
- Heavy duty riveting tool
Keep in mind that different bimini top models may call for different tools and equipment. Make sure you read the manual before installation to make sure youve got all the right stuff to get the job done safely and efficiently.
How Fast Can You Go With A Bimini On A Boat
If you have a motor powered SIB, you might be wondering how fast you can go before the bimini tears off.
If the canvas is made out of good material and your mounting point is solid, you can pretty much max out even a 20 HP motor without any issues.
Here is a video of a Saturn equipped with a bimini. You can see that a properly installed bimini top does not even budge, despite the high speed of the boat.
Are you new to the world of inflatable boats? Then my Getting Started Guide is for you. Youll find tips, tricks, and how-to articles to start off right.
Measure The Length Of The Area To Be Covered And Shaded
You have to determine the length of the Bimini top that youre going to get for your boat. To do this, start measuring from the boats front area and down to the boats back area. For boaters, front to back is commonly termed as bow to stern.
In most cases, the minimum length measurement is 5 feet, while the longest runs about 9 feet. The most common measurement, however, is 6 feet.
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How To Choose Bimini Top Material
You guessed it – bimini tops come in all shapes, sizes, and materials. So you actually have worlds worth of options laid out in front of you if and when you decide to make a purchase.
While colors and sizes are all a matter of preference, the quality of material is more of an investment consideration. In general, you should expect to see two different bimini top canvas materials including:
Reverse Install Bimini Top Any Negative Effect
View Full ProfileNEBassManIf the poles are in the front and straps in back, the only possible issue I can think of is it will be the friction of the adjustable poles clamps which keep the top from blowing back while underway rather than tension on the straps. Others have done it so it’s doable.My top is rated for 25MPH, not the 60 I think I read here.I have a similar issue but it is workable. Told myself if I ever replaced the top I’d move it back 6″.View Full Profile
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How To Measure Your Boat For The Right Size Canopy/bimini Top
Bimini tops come in all sizes, so you need to decide how large you want your bimini to be.
One of the first things you need to determine is the area of your boat that you want to shade and cover.
To do this, you need to measure the length, width, and height.
- Measure the length of the area you would like under shade. This isnt necessarily the entire length of your boat, it should be shorter.
- Measure the width by locating the midpoint of the boats side tubes, and measure the distance between them. These midpoints are where we place the main mounts for the Bimini.
- Measure the height of where you want the bimini to be starting from the mounting points . Do note that the higher the boat cover is, the less shade youll get.
Select The Correct Size Bimini
Before we get started lets define a few things depending on the size of your boat you will need different size of Bimini. In most cases a 3 bow Bimini top will be sufficient to cover the majority of the deck. A 4 bow Bimini is used for larger boats.
The number of bows refers to how many structural members there are on each side of the frame, i.e. how many sections are supporting the cover.
Ideally you should look at getting an aluminum frame as this will make it easier to install and will generally be lighter making it easier to handle.
If you expect your boat to be exposed to salt water, then stainless steel is a better option.
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Our Bimini Top Brands
Summerset Bimini tops are made from high-quality Marinex marine grade boat fabric that is water resistant, mildew, and rot resistant. Bimini tops by Eevelle have special features that set them apart, like 1 extruded aluminum frames that outperform the standard 7/8 tubing used for most other Biminis. Summerset Biminis have a speed rated performance of up to 45 mph.
An investment in a Summerset CoolTech Bimini top featuring Aqualon Edge Fabric is an investment in the best heat and sun protection available in Bimini tops today! Aqualon Edge fabric is powered by cutting-edge Perfecta Marine® technology that keeps boaters 30% cooler than other fabrics. Aqualon Edge fabric is waterproof and UV resistant to keep you protected from the rain and sun.
The Summerset Elite series featuring genuine Sunbrella or Sunflair fabric is quite simply the best Bimini top on the market. Sleek designs, vibrant colors, and high performance fabrics make for an unbeatable combination. Summerset frames are constructed from 1aluminum extrusion and offer superior strength and durability compared to standard 7/8 frames.
What Accessories Can I Use With My Bimini Top
If you like to fish, you can connect a rod holder to your frame. Able to hold up to 6 fishing rods these frames can withstand light trolling and is a great solution for fishing rod storage. They also enhance the maneuverability of your rods when your bimini top is in use, so you can fish in the shade.
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How Can I Decide What Size Is Right For My Boat
Before buying a bimini, measure your boat carefully measure to determine the best-sized frame.
Length
Measure the portion of your boat that youd like to keep shaded. Keep in mind that the bimini tops usually cover:
- 5 for 2 Bow Biminis
- 6 for 3 Bow Biminis
- 8 for 4 Bow Biminis
Width
Once you know your length, select the midpoint of the area and use it to determine your main mount points. Keep in mind that width doesnt correspond to your boats beam, it corresponds to the distance between anchor points on the boats gunwale.
Height
Ideally, you should allow for 6 of standing height. This is not the height of the bimini top itself, but the distance measured from the floor of the boat.
Is A Bimini Top The Same As A Canopy
A Bimini top is one type of canopy that you may want to put on an inflatable boat. Some companies also make tops that look more like the sun shades you would use on the beach.
Other top options for your boat include fully enclosed tent-like structures with clear plastic windows. You zip and unzip these to get into and out of the boat. These are intended for use in inclement weather or when outdoor temperatures are colder.
Note that, while installing these tops may be similar to installing a Bimini top, each will come with its own instructions. Make sure you know how to install the specific top that youre working with before you tackle the project.
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Select The Canvas Material
Once you have decided on the size of the Bimini required you will need to select the canvas material, make sure that you select a material that is UV resistant and water resistant.
A marine grade polyester is a good option but there are many different types of materials that can be used depending on your budget and requirements.
Choosing the color is more of a styling consideration, some colors do retain heat more than others but at the end of the day the differences are minimal.
Fully Assembled Bimini Tops
Don’t want to assemble your new top? Let us!
All CoverQuest Bimini’s come standard with all necessary mounting hardware and are ready to assemble. However, if you do not want to assemble your top, we can ship it to you pre-assembled and ready to mount for $150. Please note, pre-assembled tops must ship by truck. . If you would like your Bimini shipped fully assembled and ready to mount, call 1-888-726-9300, live chat, or e-mail .
If ordering a fully assembled bimini top please review this important information regarding delivery.
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What To Look For When Getting A Bimini For Your Boat
Now that we established why getting a Bimini top for your boat is a great idea, lets look into how to choose a bimini for your inflatable boat.
Do you want a Bimini thats easier and quicker to stow and deploy, or are you looking for the most durable one? It will really depend on your usage and preference.
To help you out, here are some of the things you need to consider when picking a Bimini top:
What Materials Are Used
A Bimini frame is usually constructed from either aluminum with reinforced nylon fittings, while more expensive models may be made with stainless steel. This allows the frame to be lightweight while also preventing corrosion from salt and water.
The actual cover can be made from a variety of materials including cotton, and vinyl, but for a frame that will last more than one season, youre usually better off with a frame made from durable polyester or acrylic.
Polyester
Polyester can be solution-dyed providing rich color and excellent UV-protection. Theyre also strong and resist stretching so they retain their shape. Theyre more water repellent and abrasion resistant than acrylics but will fade faster, so look for covers that have UV-treatment to extend their life.
Acrylic
A top-of-the-line soft woven fabric, acrylic looks and feels terrific. It holds up against UV rays and has exceptional fade resistance and strength. However, it does lack polyesters abrasion resistance.
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Questions To Ask Before Buying A Bimini Top
Looking to take your boat out on the water? Enjoy, but look out for the sun. When youre on the water, youre exposed to more than UV-radiation than normal because UV rays can reflect off the water and the surface of fiberglass boats.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , if not properly protected, the suns UV rats can damage a persons skin in fifteen minutes.
While sunscreen and protective clothing can help, getting out of the sun can help you avoid the risk of exposure.
One great way to stay out of the sun while enjoying the water is installing a bimini top to your boat.
What is a bimini top you ask? Youve come to the right place. Were going to answer all your questions here.
How To Assemble & Install A Bimini Top
Installing a Bimini Top isn’t a difficult process! With the help of a friend or family member, you’ll have your Bimini Top assembled and installed quickly. Before beginning, read through the instructions that arrived with your top and gather all necessary materials. By having tools and supplies within reach, the assembly and installation process will be smooth sailing.
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How To Install An Inflatable Boat Bimini Top/canopy
Whether you want to create shade when boating on a hot summer day or you just want to make sure your boat is well protected from the blazing heat of the sun, a bimini top works wonders.
With all the comfort and convenience it offers, a bimini can, without a doubt, give you a better boating experience.
In this guide to inflatable boat biminis, youll learn everything you need to be able to choose, install, and use a bimini on your SIB.
Contents
Caring For Your Bimini Top
Protect your investment by following our Bimini Top Care Tips:
- Check all screws and fittings regularly and tighten as needed.
- Make sure hold down straps are tightened.
- When trailering, fold down your top and stow in the Storage Boot.
- We do not recommend exceeding 35 MPH with the top deployed without thru-bolting your top.
- Keep your top looking its best by regularly brushing away any loose dirt or debris with a soft brush, then rinse with lukewarm water.
- Clean your top as necessary using a solution of lukewarm water and a mild soap such as Ivory. Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry.
- Always allow top to dry thoroughly before folding for storage.
- We highly recommend 303 Fabric & Vinyl Cleaner which is safe and effective. Be aware that repeated cleanings can diminish the water repellency of certain marine canvas. Apply 303 High Tech Fabric Guard to restore water repellency to factory-new levels.
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Installing A Bimini On An Inflatable Boat Using The Oar Locks
Another way of installing a Bimini on your boat is by making use of the oarlocks.
The deploying process is the same as above, but you wont need to glue a mounting patch.
The mounting hardware that comes along with the Bimini top package can be directly installed onto oarlocks. You may have to adjust the size of the end pieces in order to fit over the oarlock pin.
Tower Mounting Bimini Tops
The Tower Mounting Bimini Top is designed to eliminate the need to drill into your tower. Universal tower clamps that accommodate a wide range of tower tube diameters from 1-7/8″ up to 2-3/8″ makes installation a breeze. Each tower Bimini comes standard with one set of tower clamps, high-grade black nylon fittings, and front and rear hold down straps. Hold down straps may be replaced with optional braces.
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Serenelife Boat Bimini Top Cover
When looking for among the best boat bimini tops for boats, you should consider both its aesthetic value and of course, the products efficiency in serving its purpose. This SereneLife bimini top can deliver both of these hence, making it an attractive buy for bimini tops for fishing boats.
The bimini top canvas of this model is of superior quality. Its material is made out of extra-thick fabric which also happens to be waterproof and UV resistant. Thus you will be protected from the heavy pour of the rain, harm rays, and the dirt.
Besides delivering maximum protection, this bimini top looks sleek too on any boat. Also, you can choose from two classy colors blue and grey. The quality of the bimini top frames is as good as the bimini top canvas material. It has a double-walled aluminum frame that provides strong and durable support that can withstand any strong wind.
Furthermore, this bimini top is an ideal bimini top for Jon boat. Its also recommended for other types of boats such as bass boats, fiber boats, fishing boats, and etc. On the other hand, the purchase of this unit already comes in a complete set so you can easily assemble it in just a few minutes. That is why the procedure of this setup is worth commending.
- An ideal option for several types of boats
- Width dimensions are a little inaccurate
Upgrade Your Pontoon Bimini Shade With The Sureshade Power Bimini
SureShade Power Bimini is a fully automated, electric powered shade solution for pontoon boats or deck boats. Never again do you need to leave your seat to adjust your bimini top. Whether you are escaping the summer sun, going under a bridge or pulling in to your boat lift, you now have total control of your bimini with a simple push of a button.
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Seasons Bimini Top Boat Cover
An advantage of this 4 Seasons is its anodized aluminum frame, which is proof that the structure is sturdy and durable. If you want to replace the poles with straps, you can do it. However, keep in mind that it is the poles that provide extra stability.
The support of the frame is ensured by two rear poles and two nylon straps, which have upgraded clips. Thanks to its 600D fabric, this bimini top is waterproof. When you purchase this product, you get a matching boot.
Another benefit of this product is that its mounting screws and the eye hooks for the straps are made of stainless steel. Moreover, the item features professional nylon fittings. In case you need to fold this bimini top flat, you can also do this. To be precise, this unit folds to about 6 inches and can lay flat on the rear deck.
Pros:
- Installing the unit is very easy and quick, and there is no need for additional tools to put the structure together.
- This unit stays stable even at higher speeds of the boat.
- There are two poles and two straps to support the frame.
- You will receive a matching boot with the purchase of this bimini top boat cover.
Cons:
Komo Covers Bimini Top
The Komo Covers Bimini Top only comes in the standard size of 6 feet long and 46 inches high, but it comes in different width sizes. It is available in three colors, namely, blue, grey, and red/burgundy.
Komo Covers doesnt offer longer Bimini tops, but its product attaches perfectly to most types of boats. It is convenient to install, can effectively protect you from the sun, and withstand powerful winds.
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