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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose Dowco Marine products?

All Dowco custom marine covers, enclosures, and tops are manufactured to exacting specifications using industry-leading digital technology. This guarantees that all our products are made to fit... the first time... every time!

All marine products have extra sewn-in reinforcements for increased protection at wear points and sharp edges. Dowco warrants all of its products against manufacturing and material defects. All covers provide excellent protection from sun degradation, rain, and airborne debris. The snug fit helps to keep the inside of the watercraft clean and protected from bird droppings, tree sap, leaves, and small animals which can stain or damage your investment.


Warranty

Dowco warrants, to the original purchaser, the boat tops, covers, components, and other marine accessories to be free from defects in material and workmanship.

Learn more at Warranty Information.

 


ClimaShield® Plus

2x Stronger & 3x More Water-Resistant

Dowco’s ClimaShield® Plus is a 7.5 oz, 600 denier solution-dyed polyester fabric providing superior UV protection and fade-resistance. The woven fabric is further enhanced with Durable Water Repellent (DWR), plus a urethane undercoating to increase longevity and durability. The anti-microbial coating makes the material highly resistant to mold and mildew. This top-quality fabric is highly resistant to shrink or stretch ensuring a tailored and secure fit.

Better Fade Resistance

Most fabrics are first woven from yarns with color dyes laid on top of the woven fabric as a coating. ClimaShield® Plus fabric is made with yarns dyed with Color-Lok® technology where the dye is impregnated into the yarn prior to weaving. This process not only significantly increases the fade resistance of the fabric but also eliminates the possibility of color transfer or "rub-off" to other materials.


NauticShield

Designed for the ultimate in wear resistance.

Dowco’s premium NauticShield fabric, a heavy-duty, 10.7 oz, 600 denier polyester features waterproof top and under coats. The resulting high-tensile strength, tear-resistant fabric is completely waterproof, UV protected, and highly fade resistant to maintain its color and good looks.

 


How can I prevent mold & mildew on my product?

ClimaShield® Plus and NauticShield marine fabrics contain antimicrobial agents that are compounded in the polymer system of a particular product. Benefits include resistance of product deterioration and discoloration caused by bacteria and fungi, as well as growth of color-causing bacteria, fungi, molds, and mildew. Please keep in mind that even with an antimicrobial agent within the fabric it is extremely important that you keep the product dry. Clean it periodically to keep it free of dirt or debris.


There is water leaking through the seams on my canopy top?

Once any fabric is sewn, subsequent needle holes and seams will affect its water repellency. Dowco recommends applying two coats of seam sealer, such as Kenyon® Seam Sealer 3, to all inside seams, needle holes, and fabric joints prior to use or storage.


Care & Cleaning

Proper maintenance of ClimaShield® Plus and NauticShield fabric is important to help maximize the life of your product. Routine care is simple and certain procedures are recommended.

  • Keep dirt, leaves, and other debris from accumulating on the fabric surface.
  • Washing down with a garden hose on a bright, sunny day is recommended about once a month.
  • To remove dirt from either side of the material, use a soft brush and mild soap (such as Ivory).
  • DO NOT use bleach. Rinse thoroughly with clear water and let dry completely before storing or rolling.
  • If accidental tears occur repair them as soon as possible.
  • Prevent sharp objects, solvents, and hot items from coming into contact with the product.
  • Avoid cleaning in commercial car wash.
  • Do not steam or pressure-wash.

Storage

Keep trailerable boat covers secure while trailering. Please note that pontoon mooring covers, enclosures, boat tops, and components are NOT TRAILERABLE.

  • If stored outdoors, do not allow snow, ice, or water to accumulate as this may damage the cover.
  • Do not store or roll up while wet. Be sure product is clean & dry before storage as mildew can grow during storage if moisture is present.
  • To extend the life of your enclosure or top it is recommended that the product be rolled rather than folded prior to storage.
  • Additional storage notes for components with vinyl windows:
    • Vinyl windows and/or flaps should be in the down position for storage.
    • Do not crease or fold the vinyl windows.
    • Avoid contact between the clear vinyl windows while rolling for storage. During periods of high humidity a temporary bonding may occur. Separation may be difficult and could result in permanent damage to the cover.

I changed my mind, and want to know if I can return my product?

We accept returns within 30 days of purchase, if the product is unused, in the original packaging, and is in resalable condition. If your return meets these requirements, we will accept your return, and credit you less a 30% restock fee. Please contact us for all return questions 800-550-7655 or [email protected] *applies to consumer direct orders only


What is covered under Dowco's product warranty?

Dowco Inc. warrants all its products against manufacturing and material defects. For more information on individual product warranties, see the warranty card included with the product or the warranty information section on our website.


After I’ve placed my order, when can expect to receive it?

If you ordered a non-frame item, you can expect your order to ship within 10-15 business days from the date the order was received, you will receive an emailed order verification after placing your order, and an email verification when the item ships. Framed items are currently shipping within 30 days. 


There is a problem with my shipment, what should I do?

In the event that a scheduled shipment does not arrive or there is an unexpected delay in arrival, please contact our Inside Sales team at 800-550-7655 .


How do I register my warranty?

Go to warranty registration link on the website.


I have a product with warranty issues, what do I need to do?

To initiate a warranty claim, fill out the warranty initiation form under the warranty tab on the website, with all necessary information, including a thorough explanation of issues, item & job number from the sewn in tag on the cover, and attach pictures showing: a close up of the issue, an overview of the whole boat, the sewn in item number and job number tag, warranty issues, and your contact information. After submitting your warranty claim details, our team will contact you within 48 hours with your RMA or resolution to your issue.


I just purchased a Dowco cover, how do I install snaps to my cover?

We sell this snap tool, for you to use to install the snaps after you receive your cover to be sure you are lining your snaps up to the current snap settings on the boat.

Buy Snap Tool


Am I receiving the exact custom fit cover for my boat?

Yes, every one of our covers is designed to fit a unique make and model of boat, they are not intended to fit a range of boats, they are designed to fit one specific boat. This is why it is critical to be sure you know the accurate make, model, model year information of your boat that you’re ordering product for.


Will my cover hold up in the elements?

Dowco takes great pride in the materials we choose to use in the production of our products, and have invested time and resources in developing our very own proprietary fabrics that we use in the production of each one of our products.


Is my cover intended to trailered?

Not all covers are intended to be used while trailering; you will want to pay close attention to whether the cover is a mooring cover, or a trailerable boat cover. If your cover is intended for trailering, pay close attention to your usage while traveling. Covers are subjected to the most amount of potential damage while being trailered.


I'm looking on your website, but not finding the item I’m looking for?

Yes, this happens, send us a message or give us a call and we'll be happy to help 800-550-7655.


I’m looking for an instruction sheet for a certain item, how can I get this?

Submit an inquiry using our contact us form, we will email you the instruction sheet.