Boat tops can be vital to comfortable boating, whether it is for shade from the sun and wind, or for protection from the rain. Time out on the lake can be fun, and it is a particularly popular form of recreation in the summer, but the hot sun can hit you both from the water and from the sky, if you don't have the proper boat-top style. A top can also protect your boat from sun damage.
The bimini boat top, which provides protection for about half of your boat, can often be added to the fittings already on your watercraft. You may need to utilize the service of a canvas shop to have the top properly installed. The tops often come with stainless-steel fittings and poles. The fabric used is generally marine grade. Sunbrella material is the most common canvas boat fabric, used for its style, durability and selection. The material is UV- and water-resistant. By making this upgrade to your boat, you will not only provide yourself with sun and water protection, but you will increase your boat's resale value.
Pontoon boats are flat-bottomed boats that don't move as fast as most lake watercraft. Because of this, the covers on these boats are not aerodynamic. The top is generally flat and square, with one pole at each corner. Pontoon boat tops are generally permanently mounted to the boat. The top is high, allowing passengers to walk freely underneath. Materials vary, but the marine-grade variety usually comes with a warranty, and is shrink-, mildew- and stretch-resistant.
Unlike the bimini, which covers only a portion of the boat, the slopeback tops are convertible, and protect boaters from the sun, wind and rain in all areas of the boat. The top is attached at the windshield, and slides to the boat's stern. You can custom-build your slopeback to accommodate height. You also can add curtains.
This top is similar to the slopeback, but it only provides protection on about the front half of the boat. It ends just behind the first row of seats. It has a zip at the back and top-to-bottom windows.
