Operation of inflatable watercraft requires not only attention to the condition of the cylinders and bottom, but also competent storage organization. Parking tent This is a crucial element of equipment that extends the life of polyvinyl chloride products. For owners of boats with a length of 380 cm (12.5 feet), this issue is especially acute, since the surface area is large, and the risks of overheating or freezing glue in the seams are high.
Many people mistakenly believe that it is enough to cover the boat with a piece of polyethylene, but such "savings" often lead to destruction. PVC fabrics A properly designed case protects not only against precipitation, but also against dust, bird droppings and mechanical damage during transport on a trailer. In this article, we will discuss in detail the nuances of choice, materials and design features for the 380.
Why do you need a tent to store a boat?
The main function of the protective case is to create a barrier between the aggressive environment and the material of the case. Sunlight, seemingly harmless, contains ultraviolet, which over time destroys plasticizers in the structure. PVC fabricThis leads to loss of elasticity, microcracks and eventually to rupture of seams or cylinders.
In addition, in the off-season, when the boat is stored assembled or semi-assembled in the country or in the yard, temperature changes cause the formation of condensation inside.
⚠️ Note: If you use a fully sealed material (for example, dense polyethylene) without ventilation, a "greenhouse effect" is formed inside, which contributes to the development of mold on the floor and the corrosion of aluminum floorboards.A specialized awning solves this problem by using "breathable" materials or the presence of ventilation valves.
For a 380 cm long boat, which is often used with an outboard motor, the protection of the transom part is also important. Moisture stagnating in the niche for an outboard motor can damage the transmolor, especially if it is plywood. A quality cover fits tightly into the stern, leaving no pockets to collect water.
Also worth mentioning is mechanical protection: When stored in a garage or on a trailer, a tool, a tree branch, or hail can fall on a boat. The dense fabric of Oxford or Tarpaulin takes the blow, preserving the integrity of the cylinders. The cost of a quality awning is less than 5% of the price of a new boat, making it one of the smartest investments in preservation.
Materials of manufacture: comparison of specifications
The market offers several basic types of fabrics used to tailor covers, depending on budget and operating conditions. Oxford It's a polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) coating, and it's a durable, lightweight, inexpensive fabric that holds its shape well.
A more budgetary, but less durable option is Tarpaulin It's reinforced polyethylene, it's absolutely waterproof, but it bluffs in the cold and it can crack, and it burns out quickly in the sun and loses strength, and it's not recommended for long-term storage of the 380.
The premium segment is considered to be Teflon-coated fabrics or specialized automotive materials such as Avto tkanThey have excellent water repellent properties (the lotus effect), they don't burn out for years and they have high tensile density, but they can cost up to 2-3 times more than their Oxford counterparts.
Below is a comparative table of popular materials for covers:
| Materials | Duration of service (years) | Water resistance | Weight. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oxford 210/240 | 3-5 | High. | Light. |
| Tarpaulin | 1-2 | Absolute. | Medium. |
| Car fabric | 7-10 | High. | Heavy. |
| Canvas (with impregnation) | 4-6 | Medium | Very heavy. |
When choosing a den, consider the density of the fabric measured in den (day). For a boat 380, the best indicator is a density of 240 den and above. Thinner fabrics (120-190 den) may not withstand wind loads or snow pressure in winter.
The myth of the "eternal" tarp
Many old-hardened fishermen prefer tarpaulin, which they consider to be the most reliable. But modern tarpaulin is often inferior to synthetics in weight and rot. Natural tarpaulin becomes wet at times and can start to wet if it is not dried before packaging. Synthetic Oxford lacks these disadvantages.
Design features of awnings for boats 380
A boat 380 cm long has its own geometric features, usually about 150-160 cm wide and having an inflatable or rigid keel, and the awning must take these parameters into account so as not to sag or create sailing. Lecala for such awnings are often made composite, stitching several strips of fabric, which gives the product the necessary bulk shape.
The most important part of the design is the mounting system, and inflatable boats are the ones most commonly used. rubber-laced This allows you to pull the awning as tightly as possible, without rattling in the wind, and some models include additional fastex belts that are thrown over the sides and fastened under the bottom.
For models 380 often relevant problem of installing the awning when mounted pole-transe In such cases, manufacturers make cuts or use elastic inserts at the back of the case.
⚠️ Note: If you have a motor or slate installed, a standard awning may not fit or tear in the stern area. Make sure the cover model is preusm--WIDGET:keypoint:Tight awning plant prevents it from being blown off by the wind and reduces noise, but requires careful wearing so as not to damage the valves or handles of the boat.Instructions for installation and removal of the cover
The correct installation of the awning takes no more than 5-10 minutes, but requires a sequence of actions: first, you need to clean the boat of sand and debris, so that the abrasive particles do not rub the fabric from the inside, then the boat should be completely dry, especially if you plan long-term storage.
It's easier to do the same thing, although it's possible to do it on your own, and you start with your nose, gradually pulling the material to the stern, and it's important to make sure that the seams of the cover match the axis of symmetry of the boat.
☑️ Check before installing the tent
Done: 0 / 4After the cover is pulled, you need to check the tension. rod-stringIt has to be pulled like a string, and if you use a belt system over the sides, you have to fasten them from the bottom, and make sure that the buckles don't scratch the cylinders. Fastex. It is better to place on soft areas of fabric or put small pads under them.
Removal is done in reverse order. In winter, if the fabric is frozen, you can not tear it by force - you can damage the coating. You should carefully tap on frozen areas or slightly warm them with a hairdryer (not construction, but ordinary household at a minimum).
⚠️ Warning: Never keep a wet boat under an awning for long periods of time, guaranteed to cause mold and unpleasant odors that are difficult to get rid of.For ease of use, you can modify the regular awning by adding insect mesh vents, which will improve air circulation, and it is also useful to sew additional handles from the sling in the nose and stern for the convenience of carrying the boat in the "packaged" form.
Care for fabric and repair of damage
Fabric Oxford Or they don't require much maintenance, but periodic cleaning is necessary, and mud, bird droppings, and tree tar can erode the protective layer, use warm soapy water and a soft brush to clean, and you can't use aggressive solvents, gasoline, or acetone to dissolve the polyurethane coating.
After washing, the awning must be dried in a straightened form. You can not fold moist fabric. If there are cracks or scuffs on the surface, you can treat these places with special sprays to restore water repellent properties (DWR sprays).
In the event of tissue rupture, repair is possible at home, and this will require a piece of the same fabric and PVC glue (for example, a piece of the same fabric). Uranus or two-component polyurethane adhesives. Algorithm of repair simple: degrease the surface, apply glue on both surfaces, allow to dry, connect and warm with a hair dryer, then roll with a roller.
To make the seam after repair was as imperceptible and durable as possible, use the same material from which the awning is made. You can cut the patch from the inner pocket or cut a small piece from an imperceptible edge (for example, from the bottom).
Keep the awning in a dry, rolled-up place. Do not allow direct sunlight to be exposed to the rolled-up case for a long time, even if it is packed in a bag. Rodents can also pose a threat, so it is advisable to use repellents in the garage or barn.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Can I leave the boat under the awning in winter at -30 ° C?
Yes, quality materials (Oxford 240+ and above) can withstand these temperatures, the main condition is the absence of moisture inside and the absence of mechanical stress (snow) on the awning itself. At extremely low temperatures, the fabric can become rigid, but after warming up, it will return to its original properties.
How often should I ventilate the boat under the awning?
If the boat is stored in the garage, once a season is enough, and if it is outdoors, it is advisable to check the condition once a month, especially after thaws, to make sure that condensation or water has not accumulated inside.
Will the awning from the boat 360 fit the model 380?
Probably not. The difference of 20 cm is significant for a dense landing. The awning will either be too small and break when stretched, or will hang "sail", which will cause it to break by the wind.
What is the difference between parking awning and transport?
The parking cover is usually thinner, lighter and does not always have fast towing mounts. The transport cover is made of stronger materials, has reinforced seams and belts to withstand the pressure of the oncoming air flow on the highway.