We always recommend 100% solution dyed acrylic. It has the best UV resistance on the market and typically has a 10 year warranty against fading. One brand name is Sunbrella. Other brands are also, Tempotest, Dickson, Recacril, Docril, and Sattler. We have used these fabrics for decades. They are tried and true. There are hundreds of colors and stripes to choose from.

Motorized awnings are the most popular however a manual hand crank is an option. The awning motors are very reliable and it is rare they need replacing.

It is not recommended to leave your awning out in the rain or high winds. Retractable Awnings are designed to create shade for your patio, deck, or to help cool the inside of your house. We can recommend what type of awning would be best for you. Reach out to us for advice.

One of the most important things to consider is, what time of day would you like shade and which way is your deck facing? A proper consultation is key. For example: If you have a western exposure and you'd like to sit on your deck for cocktail hour, its important your awning have a drop down valance to prevent the sun from creeping underneath.

There are many fabrics to choose from. We can advise you of the best fabric for your application. Fabric we often use are Sunbrella, Stamoid, Top Gun... Things to consider: Waterproof vs. water repellant UV resistance Abrasion resistance Clean ability

We always use a UV and rot resistant thread. However, for the BEST quality thread ask for a PTFE thread. This is sold under different names such as Tenara or Solarfix. This thread carries a great warranty for the life of the fabric.

Ocean Tailors has hundreds of in-house designer fabrics including UV, water resistant or fire retardant fabrics. We can also order fabric samples and offer fabric research services which can include meeting with you at the Boston Design Center. To view and search through a sampling of these fabrics, please visit our fabrics page.

There are a few types of foam we commonly use. Polyurethane foam: Used for interior cushions and mattresses. Available in all thicknesses. The foam is fire rated. We use a high quality foam of 2.5 or 2.6 density with a choice of soft, medium, firm or extra firm compression. Open Cell Foam: Used for exterior cushions or cushion that will get wet. This foam dries almost immediately due to the large open pores that allow water drainage and air circulation. Air circulation is key in preventing mildew and odor. There are 2 qualities. They are both good, but one has been formulated for long term exposure to the sun and weather, and is resistant to most chemicals. It also has a fungicidal additive which is important for retarding stains and odors (which is a good quality to have in a cushion). Available in all thicknesses. Available in soft, medium, firm and extra firm compressions. Closed cell foam: Absorbs very little water. Floats. Available in ¼” – 2” thick. Available in hard and harder (not very comfortable… we rarely sell it). Latex foam: Latex is very comfortable and has great qualities for a boat mattress. Independent testing has shown Talatech Latex Foam to contain no harmful substances, is hypo-allergenic, anti-microbial, and anti-fungal. It is heavy and at a higher price point than the other foams but is an excellent choice. Memory Foam: Typically used as a 3” mattress topper. Not for outdoor use or use in moist environments. Sensus 5lb. or Visco 3lb. Very comfortable. Conforms to your body.

Patterning ensures that your new canvas will fit properly and snugly. This cannot be achieved by using old, stretched and weathered fabric for a template. Here at Ocean Tailors we always work from our own new template. We are certain you will be quite happy with the end result. Any type of boat canvas that is tensioned or needs to match up to existing canvas must be patterned. Some boat canvas such as a sail covers can sometimes be copied.

Estimate Order is received along with a 50% deposit Template (onboard) Cut, sew, fabricate (in shop) Install (onboard)

You will not lose use of your boat. We stay in touch with you as to the location of your boat and your schedule so as to minimize any inconvenience. On rare occasions (depending upon the size of the job) we will be more of a presence on your boat.