SunBrella

[Brad Young]

I am going to replace the sailcovers on DarBay.
Any thoughts on if one color holds up better than another?

[waterdog]

A canvas guy told me black was the best.   UV doesn't penetrate very deeply into the fabric.   Following that logic darker colors would hold up better.   I'm not sure I believe.

[Stephen Butler]

Had the same question, so did a little research on the chemistry/physics of sunbrella.  Lighter colors reflect more visible and IR light so do remain cooler. Also, since lighter fabrics remain cooler, theoretically they do not suffer as much heat degradation/damage as darker colors.   Darker colors absorb more visible and IR light, so heat up more.  However, UV is absorbed at the same levels, light or dark, so color is not a factor.  So, for coolness and potentially slightly longer fabric life, go light.  Having said all this, we have sunbrella navy on our C34...just liked the color!  Suggest getting what aesthectially appeals.

[Mike and Joanne Stimmler]

I have the blue fabric on mine and it's held up well. Fellow dock mates say to stay away from red as it fades very fast but then I can't recall ever seeing a catalina with red sunbrella.

[Ron Hill]

Brad : Steve said it all about color.  Blue's seem to hold up well.
Just remember to have your new canvas sewn with thread (Gortex) that's the life of the Sunbrella (about 10 yrs) or you'll be having it restitched in 3/5 years.  
Costs a tad more, but is well worth it.  A thought

[Marshall Tonner]

We have Red Sunbrella, and I've also been told it is the most affected , but here in the northern climes it still lasts quite well.Since 1989 we are on our second dodger and second sail cover, both of which are now ready for replacement.