Sun protection question

[BaseCampAnne]

What a switch from mildew!

The sun here in San Diego is ever present, causing me to wonder how to best protect the Ranger dinghy, Sunbrella canopy and everything else, including gelcoat, fenders and lines.

I am guessing wax is critical for the gelcoat, but am hoping other Tugnuts who live in such sunny climates have more suggestions. I have visions of my pricey dinghy disintegrating in the sun, and am considering taking it off the boat and storing it, but prefer to have it ready to go. Since I liveaboard a garage/full cover will not work for the boat and equipment 🙂

Thanks in advance!

 

[Nellie Too]

Ann,
You can get a silver tarp to cover you dingy that will reflect the heat so that you can leave your dingy on the back of your boat. Also use the Prism/Mirage on your superstructure, I think it will protect your gelcoat. All the best and hope to see you at the Mini-Cruise at Fishermans.
Bob

 

[Pete]

I find in sunny southern Florida regular waxing is essential if you want to maintain gel coat, especially if you have a dark color hull. 3 or 4 times a year wouldn't be too often. Also when washing make sure you remove all residual salt.
For hypalon inflatables (also vinyl/plastic) 303 Aerospace Protection can make a big difference. Also for fenders. Nylon is the best choice for docklines for stretch and resistance to UV degradation. For non skid, Woody Wax provides some protection, also Starbrite claims UV protection for their non skid deck cleaner.
Pete

 

[baz]

Anne: If you're not a live-aboard then one could buy/use a full canvas boat cover, much like one might use with the boat on a trailer and exposed to weather, tree sap, snow, rain, wind, birds, raccoons, mice and other vermin types.

The PNW does have some virtues... :lol:

 

[Pete]

Anne,
You also asked about Sunbrella. My experience has been that it holds up pretty well in Florida but there are spray products on the market that provide additional UV protection, also water and stain repellency. No idea whether they indeed extend the life of fabrics but I've used one for several years on my convertible top. It's in excellent shape and I think the coating helps removal of crud, especially bird droppings, so I recently treated the Bimini on my new 27. One of these sprays, Hi Tech Fabric Guard from 303 Products, is apparently endorsed by Sunbrella.
Pete

 

[BaseCampAnne]

Thanks for sharing your feedback!