2016 Archive : Glynn Enclosure

Project Details

Fabric 1

Sunbrella Tresco Linen
Producer: Glen Raven Custom Fabrics LLC
Supplier: Trivantage LLC

Fabric 2

Makrolon Polycarbonate
Producer: Bayer
Supplier: NEPCO

Fabric 3

SolarFix Thread
Producer:
Supplier: Miami Corp.

Fabric 4

Beige #10 Coil Zipper
Producer: YKK
Supplier: US Slide

Design Name
Brian Bennett, MFC

Design Company
Custom Marine Canvas

Fabrication Name
Brian Bennett, MFC

Fabrication Company
Custom Marine Canvas

Project Manager Name
Brian Bennett, MFC

Project Manager Company
Custom Marine Canvas

Installation Name
Brian Bennett, MFC

Installation Company
Custom Marine Canvas

Please describe the project specifications

To replace and aged enclosure on a 2005 40 foot Formula. The existing enclosure was original and tired. Visibility was terrible, and water leaks abounded.

What was the purpose of this project? What did the client request?

The client wanted to increase visibility and try to mitigate water leakage. After discussion between the client and the fabricator, Makrolon AR Polycarbonate was chosen for that purpose. He also wanted to clean up the look and finish of the enclosure. Lower zippers were eliminated to achieve this. Smaller snap tabs were used, he wanted a cleaner, more precise look.

What is unique or complex about the project?

Changing from a soft enclosure to a rigid enclosure meant extra diligence in patterning and fabrication. The panels go between a track on a hard top, and a hard windshield. An eighth of an inch in error would throw the whole fit off. The upper track was broken and loose. That had to be repaired and reattached before work could begin. The intensely shaped, bias cut upper facings were extended vertically to seal joints between panels. The existing cutouts around the side grab rails were merely swoops. The new design is more precise, close fitting bound cutout to keep water out. Setting “U” zippers in a rigid material took a bit of a learning curve.

What were the results of the project?

Fit and function is perfect. The owner is thrilled with his increased visibility and utility. He called to pay the invoice before he even received it! We are now talking about a cockpit shade and carpet for the boat.

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