Inflatable boat owners often face the challenge of protecting their property from the vagaries of the weather. A 320 cm boat is a popular size that requires a personalized approach to the selection of cover material. A properly selected awning not only preserves the aesthetic appearance of the vessel, but also prolongs the life of expensive PVC material, protecting it from ultraviolet light and aggressive precipitation.
The choice between buying a finished product and sewing an awning yourself depends on your skills and ergonomics requirements. In this article, we will discuss in detail all the nuances that you need to consider to keep your boat in perfect condition for many years to come.
Why do you need a tent for a boat 3.2 meters
The primary function of any covering-stuff Polyvinyl chloride, which is used to make a boat, loses its elasticity over time and burns out in direct sunlight, and even a brief exposure to the sun without protection can reduce the material's lifespan for several seasons.
In addition, the awning prevents moisture from accumulating inside the cockpit. Rainwater left in the boat can lead to mold on the seats, transverses and floorboard elements. The dampness also contributes to the corrosion of metal mounts and switches, which is especially important for boats with inflatable floor of NDNDM, where the metal often comes into contact with water.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use sealed awnings made of polyethylene or tarpaulin without treatment for long-term storage, as the lack of ventilation will lead to condensation and a “greenhouse effect” that is detrimental to the glue of the seams.
A well-designed awning also serves as a disguise, which hides the contents of the boat from prying eyes, whether on the shore or while standing on the water, and this is especially important if you leave a boat with installed equipment in a parking lot by a pond or on a dock.
Types of designs of awnings for PVC boats
The market offers many options for shelters, and the choice depends on what purpose your boat is used for. running-trapIt allows you to operate the boat under a canopy, protecting passengers from the sun and rain, but it doesn't cover the bow completely.
Parking and storage are ideal. transportThey completely fit the hull of the boat, repeating its geometry, and often have a lacing system or a perimeter cage, such models provide maximum tightness and dust protection when transported on a trailer or stored in a garage.
There are also combinations that can be transformed from running to parking, but for boats 320 cm long, these designs can be too difficult to install, and it is often more rational to have two separate products: light for fishing and dense for wintering.
Material choice: fabric and impregnation
The key to choosing is the fabrication material, the most affordable option is the tarp, but it gets wet quickly, heavier than synthetic counterparts, and is prone to rot if not dried before packaging, which is acceptable for budget decisions, but not durable.
The gold standard is considered fabric. Oxford (Oxford) with polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) coating, the density of such fabric is usually from 200 to 450 g / sq.m. PU 2000 and above is able to withstand a serious rainfall, not letting water inside.
Secrets of tissue labeling
Figures in the labeling of fabric, such as 600D, denote the density of the thread (Denier). The higher the number, the stronger and heavier the material. For a boat 320 cm optimal density 300D-450D, as denser tissue will be unnecessarily rigid and heavy.
Modern materials often have additional impregnations. UV protection It prevents color from burning, and Teflon gives fabrics water-repellent properties, so that droplets roll without being absorbed. When choosing, pay attention to the availability of certificates confirming the fire resistance of the fabric, which is especially important when storing a boat in enclosed spaces.
Frame and fittings: what to pay attention to
Fabric is only half the success. The frame should be lightweight but strong and not rust. For PVC boats, 320 cm is most commonly used arcs of aluminum alloy or galvanized steel. Aluminum is preferred because of its low weight, which is critical when assembled manually on shore.
The fittings are just as important: locks, lashes and straps are constantly under strain; cheap plastic in the cold or in the sun will quickly become brittle and burst; and metal elements with anti-corrosion coating should be preferred.
| Type of element | Recommended material | Features of operation |
|---|---|---|
| Arc of frame | Aluminum (dural) | They do not rust, light, but are afraid of strong blows |
| Fixing belts | Nylon with buckles | They withstand tension, do not rot, dry quickly. |
| Luvers | Brass or stainless steel | It is important to roll so as not to tear the fabric when stretching |
| Tie-tie. | Plastic (ABS) or metal | Plastic is comfortable, but in the cold it can crack. |
When assembling the frame, it is important to monitor the tension of the fabric, which should not sag to form pockets for water, but excessive tension can deform the cylinders of the boat, especially in hot weather, when the pressure inside them increases.
Rules for installing awning on a boat 320
Installation of shelter on a boat with a length of 3.2 meters requires a certain sequence of actions. First, you need to prepare the boat itself: install seats, slingboards and other equipment in normal positions. If the tent is running, make sure that the mounting places of the arcs (pockets or braces) are free.
☑️ Preparation for the installation of the tent
Then there's the stretching process. If you use a frame system, you put the arcs in pockets on the fabric or you attach them to the normal holes in the cylinders. It's important to evenly distribute the load, you start the mounting from the bow, then you go to the stern and the sides.
For transport awnings that are stocked or corded around the perimeter, the key is tightness. The cord must be tightened sufficiently, but not pressed over the cylinders. Often these models have holes for draining condensate at the bottom.
⚠️ Attention: When installing an awning in the hot sun, monitor the pressure in the cylinders. The strained fabric when heated can further compress the air inside, which will overvoltage the seams of the boat.
Care and storage of cover material
For a tent to last, it needs to be properly cared for, and after every operation, especially in rainy weather, the fabric needs to be dried, and even modern impregnations do not guarantee that there is no moisture in the folds where rotting can begin or fungus can appear.
Store the product in a dry, ventilated place, in straightened form or neatly rolled up in a case. It is not recommended to store a wet awning in a sealed bag - this is a sure way to get an unpleasant smell and spoil the material. Periodically, the fabric can be treated with special water-repellent sprays to restore properties.
If mold appears on the fabric, do not erase it with aggressive chemistry. Use a weak solution of vinegar or special means for cleaning tents, so as not to damage the PU coating.
Regularly check the condition of the joints and fasteners. Minor repairs are best done immediately, using PVC repair kits or special threads for fabric, ignoring small tears will lead to their rapid increase under the influence of the wind.
Independent sewing: is the game worth the effort
Many boat owners think about making awnings DIY, which is justified if you have access to an industrial sewing machine that can sew thick fabrics and the skills to work with patterns. A 320 cm boat will require about 4-5 linear meters of fabric 150 cm wide.
But the cost of quality material is also important: a good Oxford with impregnation can cost as much as a finished product from a manufacturer, especially if you buy it at retail, and factory awnings are tested for aerodynamics and wind resistance, which is difficult to replicate at home.
The homemade option makes sense if you need a custom shape or want to save money using improvised materials (for example, an old banner). In this case, be sure to use reinforced threads (lausan) and make double seams with slurrying or welding.
Buying a finished awning is often more profitable than self-tailoring due to wholesale purchases of materials by manufacturers and the availability of ready-made patterns that perfectly repeat the geometry of popular boat models.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I leave a tent on a boat in the winter under the open sky?
Yes, you can, but only if the awning is specifically designed for winter storage (transport) and made of frost-resistant materials, it is important to ensure ventilation inside to avoid icing and condensation, which can damage PVC when frozen.
How often do I need to change the awning on the 320?
The life of a quality awning from Oxford is 5-7 years when used actively. The tarpaulin products last less, about 2-3 years, after which they lose their water-repellent properties and require replacement or serious restoration.
Will the universal awning go to a 320 cm boat?
Universal awnings often have a margin in size and adjustment system, which allows you to use them on boats with a length of 300 to 340 cm However, for perfect landing and protection, it is better to choose a model sharpened specifically for the dimensions of 320 cm to avoid sailing on the go.
Should I put lightning on my tent?
Yes, tractor or spiral lightning used in tents requires periodic lubrication with silicone compounds, which prevents jamming, especially after contact with salt water or sand, and prolongs the life of the fittings.
Will the awning protect against theft of equipment?
The awning hides the contents from view, but is not a burglary protection; the fabric is easy to cut with a knife; to really protect valuable equipment (motors, sonars) you need to use additional cables and locks attached to the stationary elements of the boat.