A Guide to Boat Awnings

Boat Awnings protect the craft and its crew from the elements whilst in port and out on the water. They come in a variety of styles and have a number of functions depending upon the type you select.

Boat Awnings are available in a wide selection of colours and patterns and can be custom made to fit your individual vessel. Some are secured using a stainless steel frame and some are designed for flexibility to allow the awning to be placed in a number of different positions.

Many boat awning fabrics are treated with a water repellent and you can choose from a variety of awning designs. Non permanant awnings are great for providing shade as and when it is needed, they also require less annual maintenance than fixed awnings as awnings are susceptible to extreme weather and they can be folded away during severe wind and rain.

Benefits

Awnings like the Elan 434 Sprayhood Sun collection protect the craft from the sun’s glare and can prevent damage to wood decking and the fading effects of sunlight on Gelcoat. They also provide crew with shade from the sun and some are made from special materials that are certified as giving Ultraviolet protection from the sun’s harmful rays.

They also help to keep the deck surface cool whilst the boat is in port and stop metal boat fixtures from reaching high temperatures.

Boat Awnings can offer protection from rain and spray or UV however the amount of coverage you receive is dependent on the type of awning you choose as some are more suited to this purpose. They can also protect against falling leaves and debris.

Possible issues arising

With proper care, Boat Awnings are designed to last a number of years but maintenance is required to keep your awning in top condition.

Mildew and algae are common problems however they can be remedied by using breathable materials that prevent the boat from locking in moisture, and avoiding the issues that arise as a result of poor circulation of air.

The accumulation of rain or snow on a boat sun awning can put pressure on the frame and cause it to collapse. General advice with Sun Awnings is that unless specifically designed for extreme weather use, Boat Sun Awnings should be removed for the winter months and stored in a dry environment for use the following year.