[C320-list] Dodger windows

[Utility Email]

We have Strataglass on our Iverson's Design dodger and we really like it due to its optical clarity.  We had vinyl on a previous dodger and camper canvas on a previous sailboat, but we didn't like how it scratched and was not optically clear.  Rolling the vinyl windows up was a benefit, but we just stow the flat Staprataglass panels under the bunk cushions when we take them out.  Our dodger is a I-top from Iverson's Design that allows you to remove all of the dodger windows while still allowing the top canvas to provide shade over the companionway.  Photos of our dodger are on the C320IA website.  

We like Lexan over vinyl.  

Dave

Dave Swanson
S/V Emily Ann
2007 C320 MK II, No. 1107
Mukilteo, Washington



> On Oct 5, 2016, at 5:18 AM, Jeff Hare <Catalina at thehares.com> wrote:
> 
> Window material has come a long way in recent years and there are some great
> materials out there now.
> 
> Here's my take... 
> 
> Any of the high end materials should last 10 years minimum if cared for
> properly. Longer in areas with less intense sun.  Ours is 16yrs old this
> fall and still quite clear. Window covers make a big difference in how long
> they will last.  Make sure they use SolarFix or Tenara thread since they
> will last longer than any of the materials they are stitching together.
> 
> Consider your design and how you want things to work (zippers, openings,
> etc) before you choose the window material.
> 
> Polycarbonate - (Makrolon) is more difficult to work with and will be a bit
> more expensive. Stitching through this material is a chore, but now there
> are some adhesive options which seem to work well also.  You'll want to
> choose a canvas maker who is on top of the technology if you go this route.
> With PC, you will have some limitations on how you can open up the center
> forward panel for ventilation because you can't just unzip it and roll it
> up.  
> 
> EZ2CY - (no firsthand experience) makes semi rigid acrylic window material
> that's optically clear and getting a lot of attention these days. Only EZ2CY
> dealers are authorized to make enclosures with this material however.
> Acrylic is typically more clear than Polycarbonate and doesn't exhibit the
> rainbow effects.
> 
> O'Sullivan Films - (my preference) Makes clear flexible window material in
> the USA up to 80gauge thicknesses which is quite stiff and optically clear.
> Not as rigid as PC or EZ2CY's Acrylic but easier to work and comparable to
> PC in clarity.  They make two basic types:  O'Sea and Regalite   The O'Sea
> material has the added benefit of scratch resistant coatings and is also
> Sunscreen, bug spray and fuel resistant.  The 60gauge is a great thickness
> for dodgers but if you want the rigid look with the benefits of PC, the
> 80gauge will do the trick and will be far easier to handle if you ever need
> to remove it from the boat (like storm prep, etc.)  PC will probably need to
> be curved and may not always lay flat when removed.
> 
> Strataglass - (too many drawbacks) Similar to O'Sullivan products but is
> more sensitive to scratches and contact with sunscreen, bug spray and fuel
> must be avoided or it will cloud.  I'm not really a fan, but it is popular
> and some swear by it.  They have had some mfg consistency problems, but
> maybe those have been worked out, I'm not sure.
> 
> -Jeff Hare
> #809 Woodbine II
> 
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: C320-list [mailto:c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com] On Behalf
> Of rross at pillerross.com
> Sent: Wednesday, October 5, 2016 2:09 AM
> To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
> Subject: [C320-list] Dodger windows
> 
> What is the general consensus regarding Lexan windows versus regular
> windows.
> 
> 
> 
> 
>