Enclosure zipper question

Message Topic Search Topic Options Post Reply Create New Topic Printable Version Translate Topic

   I just finished my first Bimini after watching your video and it turned out better then I could've imagine.  I ordered all the enclosure material for the flybridge and will be starting on that this weekend.  

The question I have is related to the front and rear enclosure panels.  The Bimini is 10ft wide and the previous enclosure was secured with DOT fasteners with 3 separate window panels.  I would like to keep the same configuration but use zippers instead of fasteners.   Since I want to be able to remove the panels individually, I purchased three zippers, 36" and (2) 48" per front and aft.  I plan on using the 36" for the center panel and the 48" trimmed down to 42" (120").  Can you think of any uses I might run into using separate zippers compared to using one continuous zipper?  

Author	Message Topic Search Topic Options Post Reply Create New Topic Printable Version Translate Topic
Jkislingbury Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Forum Member Joined: 21 September 2017 Location: San Diego Status: Offline Points: 4	Post Options Post Reply Quote Jkislingbury Report Post Thanks(0) Quote Reply Topic: Enclosure zipper question Posted: 10 October 2017 at 4:08am
	I just finished my first Bimini after watching your video and it turned out better then I could've imagine. I ordered all the enclosure material for the flybridge and will be starting on that this weekend. The question I have is related to the front and rear enclosure panels. The Bimini is 10ft wide and the previous enclosure was secured with DOT fasteners with 3 separate window panels. I would like to keep the same configuration but use zippers instead of fasteners. Since I want to be able to remove the panels individually, I purchased three zippers, 36" and (2) 48" per front and aft. I plan on using the 36" for the center panel and the 48" trimmed down to 42" (120"). Can you think of any uses I might run into using separate zippers compared to using one continuous zipper?

MattGrant Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Admin Group Sailrite Employee - Expert Joined: 21 April 2005 Location: United States Status: Offline Points: 3012	Post Options Post Reply Quote MattGrant Report Post Thanks(0) Quote Reply Posted: 10 October 2017 at 8:58am
	This approach works fine but you will have gaps at the corners where the zippers come together. You may need to devise a velcro closure in such areas to keep the weather out. Being able to remove panels completely is very nice. You might consider using Evolution fabric as a liner when you roll and store panels to protect them. http://www.sailrite.com/Evolution-Block-It-Grey-55-Fabric
	Best Regards, Matt Grant Sailrite