Enclosure zipper question

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   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?  

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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: 3009	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