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Canvas Use and Care Instructions
Boat canvas is
subjected to more severe punishment than practically any other type of
canvas or fabric item. Although our canvas products adhere to rigid
specifications, they should not be neglected for long periods of time,
especially during inclement weather. Water-pockets may form in the top if
the unit is not assembled and installed taut, which would further add to
the load on the frame supports and possibly cause a broken frame as well as
fabric leakage. Depending on the fabric, your canvas unit is water
repellent and not waterproof. During rain some leakage may occur. Keep objects
from touching the inside of the canvas unit. Such objects may cause leakage
at the point of contact.
Moisture, dirt,
chemicals from industrial fallout (i.e. acid rain), heat, ultraviolet rays
and salt water (in some cases) are all factors that accelerate the
degradation of your boat canvas and upholstery. These elements can do
serious damage if left unchecked. Take a moment to review these elements
one at a time to see what can be done to slow down the degradation.
MOISTURE
Causes shrinkage and mildew if fabric is not allowed to dry thoroughly
while in an open opsition. Shrinkage can occur at anytime if an article is
allowed to dry while loose. Most shrinkage will occur over the first few
months after initial installation. When canvas items are installed on the
boat and properly adjusted, shrinkage can only occur in areas of looseness.
Stern curtains, cockpit covers or other similar items should be installed
to allow for some degree of shrinkage.
DIRT
Can create a starting point for mildew when moisture is present. Cleaning
periodically with a mild detergent and water will extend the life of the
canvas and provide a better appearance. Cleaning can be accomplished with a
sponge or soft scrub brush. Canvas units should always be erected fully and
adjusted to a tight, smooth appearance before washing. Allow canvas to
air-dry thoroughly before removing or loosening any canvas.
CHEMICALS
Can cause decay
of vinyl and other fabrics if allowed to accumulate over a period of time.
If your canvas or upholstery products come into contact with any chemicals,
they should be washed off with clean water imhttp://www.ameritex-tech.com/mediately.
HEAT
Under certain
conditions, heat can cause cracking and stiffening of material. Any
vinyl-coated fabric when enclosed in a polyethylene container and exposed
to sunlight is at risk. Polyethylene bags or tubes are meant only for
protection during shipping and handling. DO NOT USE THEM FOR STORAGE.
ULTRAVIOLET
DEGRADATION
Most synthetic
fabrics or fabricated parts today are U.V.R. treated to resist ultraviolet
effects. The best protection, however, is to avoid long periods of storage
in areas subjected to direct sunlight.
SALT WATER
Corrosive effects of salt water can corrode brass, aluminum, or stainless
fittings and fasteners. Your canvas has fittings and fasteners made of
these materials. These can be protected by washing off with clean water
after every use.
The materials used to produce your boat top and curtains are the finest
obtainable. Reasonable care will assure you of many years of service.
WARNING: Your
canvas is not designed to be fully open while the vessel is traveling under
rough conditions or at moderate to high speeds. Do not operate your vessel in these
conditions unless your canvas is in the closed position and stowed
properly. While under power, your
canvas unit may collect hazardous exhaust fumes underneath it causing
injury or death, please allow for proper ventilation. Operating your vessel
at moderate to high speeds with the top erected may also result in the
dismounting of the framework, which may cause injury.
Things you can do to protect your
canvas items for extended years of enjoyment are:
·
Keep it
clean. DO NOT use harsh cleaners. Never use any form of bleach.
·
Clear
vinyl curtains and windows demand extra care to prevent scratching.
Ideally, they should be washed with clear water, preferably hosed off,
wiping with a clean soft cloth at the same time. Do not use a harsh cloth
or chamois skin. Any dirt or grit in the cloth may result in
scratches. Canvas should be rolled
up during storage and kept dry to prevent any cracking or creasing of
material.
·
Under
direct sunlight conditions do not allow the clear vinyl to come in contact
with the top framework. The framework radiates heat and can burn the clear
vinyl. Ameritex offers fabric frame
sleeves to prevent this from happening.
·
Be sure
that the top is completely dry before storing.
·
Keep unit
well ventilated when stored. DO NOT STORE IN PLASTIC OR POLY BAGS.
·
Keep
tubing, fittings and fasteners clean, lubricated, and waxed.
·
When
operating your boat at high speeds, make sure the canvas is in the stowed
and secure position.
·
Do not
trailer your boat with the canvas erected or installed on boat. There are
specific trailering covers available for this purpose. Please refer to your
Dealer for these proper canvas accessories.
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Clear
vinyl panels are not intended for use while the boat is in storage or being
moored. Clear vinyl panels do not hold up well against ultraviolet
light. There are optional mooring
covers, cockpit covers and fabric zip-in panels available that are intended
for storage and mooring conditions.
For optimal protection,
accessory mooring covers and cockpit covers made from breathable material
are also available for most boats. These covers help protect against all
weather conditions and discourages mold growth. For additional information
on these covers, contact your Ameritex dealer or call our customer service
department directly (941) 751-6131.
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