jon boat cover
ENSURING PROPER CARE FOR JON BOAT COVERS
Jon boats are one of the cheapest, easy to build boats around. They are flat with an aluminum floor. It can seat one to three people and may only be used in still to moderate water with very little waves. It is used for fishing. Unlike the bigger pontoon boat, jon boats can be run by a paddle or a motor. Although cheaper compared to other boat types, it is also a necessity to take proper care of the boat to ensure that it lasts a long time. The first step to caring for any boat is to purchase a boat cover. Jon boat covers are used to protect the boat from the everyday wear. It prevents dust and moisture from accumulating on the boat which would eventually hasten rusting, cracking and peeling. It is for this purpose that a jon boat cover is essential.
Jon boat covers can be bought off-the-rack if the boat measurements follow a standard size. However, for custom built boats which is most commonly the case for jon boats, manufacturers offer an option to purchase a jon boat cover that is specifically made to fit the size and dimensions of the jon boat. An owner needs to provide the manufacturers with the exact measurements. If a boat’s dimensions are specified in a brochure, one justh as to relay these figures to the manufacturers. However, if none is provided, on must take the measurements of the beam width (midddle and widest part of the boat) and the center length which runs from the front of the boat to the stern.
Jon boat covers require minimal upkeep. With the proper care, one can extend the life of jon boat covers to as much as twenty years. Jon boat covers are sold in varied colors such as navy blue, red, pink, violet, green, indigo, etc. However, it is advisable to get the ones in darker colors as these tend to last longer than the paler ones. The following are care tips for jon boat covers.
1. To delay the need for deep or thorough scrubbing, one needs to hose fabrics off on a monthly basis with clear water. This practice will help avoid the dirt from becoming deeply imbeded in the fabric and eliminate the need for more frequent vigorous cleanings. In most environments, a thorough cleaning will be needed every two to three years.
2. When it’s time for a thorough cleaning, sail boat covers can be cleaned while still on a boat or, size permitting, they can be removed for cleaning in a washing machine or dockside.
3. When cleaning sail boat covers, it is important to observe the following:
· Always use a mild soap such as Ivory Snow, Dreft or Woolite.
· Water should be cold to lukewarm. Never more than 100 degrees F.
· Air dry only. Never apply heat to sail boat covers.
General or Light Cleaning
To clean sail boat covers while still on a boat, follow these simple steps:
· Brush off loose dirt.
· Hose down the cloth.
· Prepare a cleaning solution of water and mild soap such as Ivory Snow, Dreft or Woolite. Never use detergents as the materials tend to be too harsh.
· Use a soft bristle brush to clean the fabric.
· Allow cleaning solution to soak into the fabric.
· Rinse thoroughly.
· Air dry only.
· May not require retreatment depending on the age of the fabric.
If stubborn stains persist, you can use a diluted chlorine bleach or soap mixture for spot cleaning of mildew, roof run-off or other similar stains. However, this may result in fading of colors and thinning of the fabric.
Source: http://www.bloggedadvice.com