Flybridge cover

[ValhowellPower]

1995 GB49MY. Looking at a rigid cover for the flybridge. (12’ by approx 21’). We have an existing stainless arch we may or may not keep. Looking at a stainless structure but not sure about a top surface. Likely putting at least 2000 watts of solar on top (likely rigid panels). Looking for what others have used to top the frame with pros and cons.

 

[Mac2]

This is 2600 watts. Existing aluminum frame made mounting easy with u bolts. Seams filled with 3m 4000. Initially tried sealing seams with beutyl tape but it became to difficult. Hindsight I would have used rubber seam tape for a better look, but I wasn’t to concerned as you can’t see it.

 

[Comodave]

You might look at Eterna Bond tape to seal the seams. It is used extensively in the RV industry. It comes in various widths. And lasts forever.

 

[Mac2]

You might look at Eterna Bond tape to seal the seams. It is used extensively in the RV industry. It comes in various widths. And lasts forever.

Thanks. That is perfect! When mine stars leaking, I will use the bond tape.

 

[Comodave]

I used it on previous boats when I used hardtops that came in panels. I covered the seams with the tape and it worked great. But once you put it on it is there to stay.

 

[Xlantic]

Aluminum will be a lot lighter than SS. Cheaper too.

If you use rigid panels – which are cheaper, longer-lasting and more efficient than flexible ones – you don't need a "top surface". But you will want to seal the gap between panels or between panels and the roof structure.

Make sure you use a quality product as mentioned above. Cheap Chinese butyl tape will only last a few weeks. (Ask me why I know.)

 

[Comodave]

I too thought that aluminum would be much lighter than S/S. But I had a fabricator out to a boat I used to own. He said the difference in weight is negligible and the strength of S/S is much better so I went with S/S.

EternaBond tape will last almost forever. We had it on the roof of our RV in Arizona for about 6 years and it looked brand new. And the sun in Arizona will put everything to the test.

 

[ksanders]

We had a stainless steel structure made and covered it with 1/2" starboard.

The starboard looks great and is pretty easy to work with.

I'm not sure of the "best" material for the top, but the Starboard looks great and it works.
The challenge is it is difficult to seal Starboard, so you need to work around that, but there are ways. G-flex is one way.

If I were to do it again I'd be tempted to use a closed cell foam, and fiberglass over it, but again, the starboard was easy, and it looks good.