- Paint. From my last boat, which had a similar shade, I learned that cloth shades often let too much heat through. If they are light-colored cloth too much penetrates there is too much bottom-side reflection. If they are dark, they absorb heat and re-radiate it downward. I have painted awnings with white latex paint and had fair results. In this case, I did not let it dry long enough and some of the pain stuck to itself; let it dry for several weeks and this should not be a problem. Perhaps there is a better paint choice, but I am sold on the bi-color results. Additionally, paint reduces fabric stretch, which is a help.
- Genoa sheets. By setting the shade over the sheets, you can get more height and a wide range of shapes. Experiment.
- Setting it lower on the rear edge, just above the open hatches, directs more air below. Yes, you have to duck under it, but it seemed worth it.
- Cabin shading. Even if you are at the dock with the AC running, the shade reduces the load and makes it possible for the AC to keep up. If I were going to use AC a lot or going to the tropics, I would make an extension to cover the cabin behind the mast.
A prior post described carrying the AC unit on deck: Keeping Cruise-N-Carry AC Unit On-deck
Would a more permanent version that could be kept up during squalls make sense? I don't think so. Nothing is going to withstand a 60-knot gust and still fit in a stuff sack. Ease of setting more important, and this minimalist shade takes only a minute with practice.
Simple side extensions for the dodger help too, but in this case to keep out the rain. I have no wish for a full enclosure, particularly in the summer, but the short sides let too much spray in during heavy down pours, soaking the cockpit. I made some simple wings that solve the problem and roll up into nothing when not used.
I love sitting in the cockpit during a downpour after a hot day.
Nice job Drew. We have been thinking of how to make a combination sunscreen / water catcher.
ReplyDeleteWouldn't the same thing work if you simply lowered the bow attachment to the deck and placed a bucket there? Laying a boat hook on it for weight might help.You might also attach the back corner to the shrouds.
ReplyDeleteBut I can't see getting one awning to do both, without minor re-setting; to block the sun you want the edges low and the center high. I agree dual purpose is a great idea.
If you are trying to sew something neat with your new machine, why not get a cheap poly tarp first, make some duct tape adjustments, and then use that as your pattern? I would not use a poly tarp for real; it won't last, is too bulky to store, and is too stiff to pitch.
We have a tarp from mec.ca that we used when kayaking. The pouch it came in is attached in the middle and is designed to have a paddle inserted into it to prop up the middle. We have yet to play with it but I visualize being able to prop it up in the center for shade and also to have a small hole in the middle that when the center is lowered, rain water could be funneled through it and captured.
ReplyDeleteSimilar to this:
ReplyDeletehttp://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l150/camper-mike/extra%20photos/AlgonquinParkJuly2004095.jpg
Just came across this link Drew:
ReplyDeletehttp://sv-cestlavie.blogspot.com/2010/06/bit-of-shade-for-bow-too.html
We moved aboard our boat at the beginning of June and I've never been so stinking hot in my life!!! We started in the Chesapeake and just entered the Potomac yesterday.
ReplyDeleteI found you at follow the boat.