What is UV(Ultraviolet index)?

The UV index is an internationally recognized standard measure of the strength of ultraviolet (UV) radiation that causes sunburn at a particular place and time. It is commonly used in daily and hourly forecasts aimed at the general public. The UV index is designed to be an open-ended linear scale that is directly proportional to the intensity of UV radiation, and it adjusts for wavelength based on what causes human skin to sunburn. UV rays are known to be harmful, and their long-term effects may not be immediately visible, just like our skin. The prevention and maintenance plan for your boat will depend on its location and the amount of time it spends in the water. For example, a boat located in Southeast Asia that is exposed to year-round sunshine will require more frequent replacements of its UV cover and jib stitching compared to a boat in the Great Lakes region that is only in the water for the summer season.

Types of UV Protection

Multiple types of sacrificial UV protection are applicable to sailboat sails. Among the commonly used sailcloth materials are Dacron and acrylic. While these materials are themselves vulnerable to UV damage, they are better able to withstand exposure than sails and can be replaced to extend the life of the sail.

Dacron UV

Dacron UV Protection pertains to a type of Dacron that is treated to have a longer lifespan in the presence of UV rays. This treated material serves as a sacrificial strip that safeguards the Dacron or laminate content constituting your sail. The added layer of protection it provides against UV rays aids in prolonging the sail’s lifespan. Another alternative for shielding the sail from UV damage is the use of a UV-resistant thread when sewing the sail.

Acrylic UV Protection

Acrylic can be used as a substitute for Dacron sacrificial strips. Although they are quite heavy and may not be ideal for racing, cruisers appreciate their increased UV resistance which results in a longer lifespan. Nevertheless, they are still vulnerable to damage from extended exposure to the sun.

Can you apply UV protections on Spinnaker and Code Zero?

Yes, it is possible to apply UV protection on spinnakers and code zeros. However, the process is a bit different from that of regular sails. This is because spinnakers and code zeros are usually made from lightweight materials such as nylon or polyester. Therefore, applying a UV-resistant coating may add extra weight and affect the sail’s overall performance. Instead, a UV-resistant adhesive tape can be used to cover the edges of the sail. This tape is lightweight and won’t have any impact on the sail’s performance.

Sunbrella

Our supplier, Sunbrella, is committed to providing worry-free fabrics that are durable, easy to clean, and aesthetically pleasing, ensuring comfort in any setting. Originating in the 1960s, Sunbrella initially focused on creating awning canvas with a longer lifespan than cotton. Since then, they have expanded their range to include fabrics and technologies designed for outdoor and indoor furniture, window treatments, boats, and more.  

WeatherMax

WeatherMax is a company specializing in the creation and manufacturing of textiles for various markets, including fire service, military, outdoor fabrics, aerospace escape slides, fuel cells, and automotive airbag fabrics. Safety Components, the parent company of WeatherMax, also offers a diverse range of highly technical fabrics for industrial and commercial use, including filtration, specialty military, composites, tire manufacturing, and coated fabrics.