Does anyone know who in Ft lauderdale is fabricating the sail shade hardware / poles? Also what's the best material?
We have one on the top deck. It s made out of a mesh material so water can't pool in. Similar to what is used for windshield cover
Any canvas shop can make them. The best fabric to use IMO is Textilene or something similar. https://www.trivantage.com/fabric-screen-mesh-textilene
The poles can be done in stainless steel but recently many shipyards supply them in carbon fibre for ease of handling. Makefast USA is an excellent supplier: http://www.makefastusa.com/products/biminis-sunroofs-sun-awning-poles/sun-shade-strut-systems/
The challenge has been finding shops that will do both pole and fabric. Have found metal fab guys but no one who has done this before.
You don’t really need a shop that does both. Just two shops that will work together. Call Mike at (954) 439-6427 He does metal work and works with canvas shops.
You’re welcome. He does really nice work. He’s done work on several boats I’ve run. And the owners are always happy.
Speaking of canvas, Most of the smaller boats I've owned have had soft (Sumbrella, I think.) tops. We are now considering a day boat in the 30-35 foot range for use on the west coast of Florida. There seems to be a trend toward a hard top vs canvas. What am I missing? Other than the ability to mount accesories and protection from falling objects, I dont see the advantage, at least not for a day boat. thoughts? thanks.