Tip Top CanvasTip of the Mitt & Top of the Line!
call for a free quote: 231-625-8366
Choosing a Canvas Shop
Choosing the right canvas shop can be as important as choosing the project and materials!
Some questions to ask are:
Q. How long do you warranty your workmanship?
A. We warranty our workmanship for the life of the cover. This means that if the cover fails due to faulty construction(not the breakdown of thread or fabric), we will repair our work at no charge. Our warranty far exceeds the industry standard.
Q. How long have you been in business?
A. We have been making boat canvas for over 10 years.
Q. Is this your full time job or is this a part time venture?
A. This is our full time business.
Q. Do you have a place of business or do you work out of your basement or garage?
A. We maintain a 1500 square foot work shop and have mobile capabilities. Boats on trailers can be brought to our shop for completion. Larger boats and yachts can be completed dockside.
Q. In what geographic areas can you provide your services?
A. We provide services in all of Northern Michigan, Eastern Upper Peninsula, Southwest Florida plus other areas upon request.
Q. Are you authorized to work in all the local marina's?
A. We are authorized in all area marina's and have their highest recommendation based on our services. We are the preferred provider of canvas services at the Walstrom Marine locations in Harbor Springs, Bay Harbor and Cheboygan.
Q. Do you have references or can I see a project you completed?
A. Click on the Photo Album heading for pictures of some of our work. References will be provided upon request.
Q. Can you use my old canvas as a pattern for a new cover?
A. No. Over time, marine fabrics shrink and/or expand. Each and every cover is custom made to fit your boat.
Q. How did you learn canvas fabrication, layout & design?
A. We bring a college degree in fabrication and layout to the table to aid the boat owner in planning their project.
Q. Do you have insurance if you damage my property or if someone is hurt on my property?
A. We carry complete business liability insurance.
Q. Do you do repair work?
A. We do repairs on clean canvas in good condition. As the material ages it can become brittle making some repairs more difficult. We must examine the damage in order to determine whether repairs can be made.
Q. What if I am thinking of selling my boat?
A. Just like a home, you want your boat to have "curb appeal". It is perceived that if the canvas is in good condition, the entire boat must have been well maintained! Our observation has been that boats sell faster and sell for a better price above the cost of new canvas. Perspective buyers can see themselves enjoying your boat instead of looking forward to repairs.
Q. What if I am on a budget?
A. We can quote both Premium & Economy Services. Our Premium Service has many bonus features that make your boat canvas more user friendly & enjoyable. Our Economy Service is comparable to the project an average canvas shop would perform.
Our Premium Services include:
Our Economy Services include:
- Windows finished both inside & outside with flap covers
- Burn out strips on glass to protect them
- Premium glass windows such as Polycarbonate or Strataglass
- Premium windows screens made with PhiferTex®
- Premium fabrics with at least a 5 year warranty
- Snap colors to match fabric when available
- Double stitching with premium Gore Tenara Thread that has a lifetime warranty
- Quality, long life YKK marine zippers with zipper pulls
- Extreme Seal window gaskets for a water tight seal
- Use of stainless steel frames & hardware with H2 tube available
- Lifetime warranty on workmanship
- Project finished on outside only
- No burn out strips on glass
- No screens
- Economy roller clear glass windows
- Fabric of your choice
- Quality YKK marine zippers as needed
- Economy Dacron thread
- Lifetime warranty on workmanship
