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The boat window removal:

Removing the old faded windows was the first part of the process, exposing the surrounding of the old window. Being handy with tools and timber, Peter proceeded to stabilise the 12mm thick cabin top by epoxying 6mm marine ply spacer in the void, which varied, to get it all a constant thickness. Allowing also for a 3-4mm liner.

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After considering their options for an infill spacer, Peter decided that buying a band saw from Bunnings and cutting timber infills was the best option. They used ¾” self tappers because the infills were 8mm thick. 

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The boat window installation:

After beginning with 6G screws Peter found some of them stripped the thread so they changed to 8G, tightening them carefully with an electric driver drill on a low torque setting.

Tef-Gel paste was used to isolate the stainless screws from the aluminium frames.

The Butyl tape was very easy to use and time will soon tell how it performs as the weather warms up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Peter and Janet were very happy with the end result and glad they put in the time and effort to complete the project themselves. The vessel looks great, the view is clear again and there will be no more leaks. Happy sailing!

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If you would like assistance with your next boating renovation project, be sure to get in touch with the team of experts at ALFAB in Queensland or Victoria.

For all your marine glazing needs including boat windscreens and windows, our team will provide you with a high-quality finish and professional advice. Contact us today for an obligation-free quote.

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What’s involved in a caravan renovation?

Restoring an older or vintage caravan can be a fun and rewarding process, but there is a lot of work that has to be done to achieve this result. If you are wanting to take on a complete interior and exterior caravan restoration, some of the many aspects to consider include: 

• Windows, windscreen & doors
• Mechanical work such as brakes, axles & wheels
• Electrical work 
• Plumbing & gas
• Cabinetry
• Flooring 
• Interior & exterior paintwork 
• Seat covers, other upholstery & curtains

Using modern parts for retro caravans:

If you’re hoping to achieve a retro look similar to this recent project completed by our team, you will have to weigh up whether you plan on restoring the caravan faithfully to its original condition, or if you want a modern take with updated materials and parts. 

Using updated and modern materials will generally mean you will end up with a safer and more practical final product. This, however, all comes down to personal preference and how you intend to use your refurbished caravan. It can also be difficult to track down original caravan parts and features, so the quicker and easier option is usually to take a modern spin.

That said, many of the original parts found on caravans like the picture above were fitted with ALFAB windows and fittings even 45 years ago, most of which can still be sourced right here from our team from the store or by request.

Recommended windows & doors for caravans:

For more than 45 years, we’ve been working on caravan projects just like this one and we are always open to assisting with new restorations. Here at ALFAB, we provide standard and custom caravan window and door installations. Our team is highly experienced in producing glass products for caravans of all makes, models and sizes.

Our automotive doors can also be installed in a variety of styles, sizes and materials. There is a range of standard sizes to choose from or we can custom create a door to fit your vehicle. Doors come in glass or acrylic, black or white and round or square top corners. Or we can fabricate to suit your needs in most common materials.

To finish off the caravan refurbishment completely, all automotive doors from ALFAB can be fitted with aluminium hinges or stainless steel hinges, internal security screens and triple locks. We can also assist with a range of seals, rubbers, plastics and other window or door accessories that may be required.

Need more information?

If you’re wanting to restore your caravan, be sure to get in contact with our team of experts for assistance. Backed by decades of industry experience, we can help get your tired caravan or camper trailer looking like new.

For further information or to arrange a comprehensive quote, get in touch with our Queensland or Victorian team today.

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Available in clear as well as a variety of colour options, UV polycarbonate is the perfect choice for architectural applications, particularly where extended service life and resistance to colour shift is needed. UV polycarbonate sheets provide enhanced UV-resistance, exceptional durability throughout changing weather conditions and high impact strength.

The sheets can be thermoformed, fabricated and decorated to suit your requirements. For your peace of mind, it is even backed by a 5-year limited warranty against breakage, excessive yellowing and loss of light transmission.

Polycarbonate provides competition race boats and race cars with a huge benefit in terms of weight reduction, safety and performance enhancement when compared to glass alternatives. Below are examples of polycarbonate applications used for a race car and race boat:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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There are various other applications for polycarbonate where safety is paramount, such as within the industrial and architectural industries.

Some of these applications include:

• Forestry machinery windows
• Balcony guards
• Security screen protection
• Personal protection shields

Here at ALFAB, we regularly work with 3D shaped polycarbonate on a range of marine applications including race boat windows. If you’re interested in UV polycarbonate or would like to learn more, be sure to get in touch with the specialists at ALFAB today.

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What is Flush Glazed?

Flush Glazed is a new-to-market marine glazing innovation. Unlike traditional forms of marine glazing where multiple panels of glass are separated or joined together using frames, Flush Glazed windows and doors removes this requirement without any detriment to the quality or versatility. Therefore, by reducing the amount of frame exposure, we are able to provide a more seamless, clean and crisp look.

The luxurious finish provided by Flush Glazed won’t leave you compromising functionality. In fact, Flush Glazed installations even reduce cleaning time and make it a much easier process due to the reduced frames and joints to worry about like there is with standard types of marine glazing.

“The Flush Glazed product range gives clients options to a conventional commercial cavity glazing system with a seamless smooth appearance for their vessels.  The design idea for the Flush Glazed product suite stemmed from a bespoke concept with an aim to complement clients products with a ‘next level’ enhanced look and feel not seen in the marine market before.”   Said Reece Maddison, ALFAB’s Managing Director. The product can be tailored for production builders, custom builders and refit projects alike.

 

Why should I opt for Flush Glazed?

 

Here at ALFAB, we strongly believe in creating a luxurious experience onboard every marine vessel, without compromise. This is ultimately achieved by choosing unique and high-quality materials teamed by decades of experience. Flush Glazed exudes both quality and luxury—it’s a simple way to further enhance the aesthetic of your boat and make a bold statement.

Your vessel doesn’t have to look like every other one on the water. You can ensure it stands out by opting for unique and state-of-the-art solutions. Stylish and sleek, Flush Glazed is a minor adjustment that will make a major difference when it comes to the overall appeal of your boat.

Would you like to learn more about Flush Glazed? Get in contact with our Queensland or Victorian team today for all Flush Glazed enquiries or to learn more about our extensive range of marine glazing solutions.

 

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How can I keep my boat cool
& improve airflow?

January 2020

With the warmer months well and truly upon us, you might have noticed how hot it can get inside your boat. If you want to create some extra airflow, there are many different ways to achieve increased ventilation and decrease the temperature inside your boat.

Here are some popular options:  

• Addition of opening windows
• Installation of hatches
• Window Tinting

 

Changing existing glass to opening windows or adding new windows can be a simple and cost-effective way to improve airflow and keep the temperature down inside the vessel. Some popular window styles include sliding, fixed and hopper windows. Reece Maddison from ALFAB shared his thoughts with us:

“When clients come to us wanting to cool down their boat we’ll often recommend that they opt for forward-facing hopper windows or hatches. A vessel will usually bow to the wind, even when at anchor, so a forward-facing window option will catch the breeze and ensure you achieve a consistent airflow.”

Craig, a Gold Coast boating enthusiast recently came to ALFAB wanting help with cooling down his 40′ Tasman Elite sailing catamaran. New glass was cut for the forward-facing windows allowing for Magnus Hatches to be installed within the glass and the existing tint on the remaining glass was replaced to reduce the heat and improve visibility.

While ALFAB can supply and install retrofitted glass and hatches, Craig decided to do the job himself and with a bit of advice from the team at ALFAB, the 2 new windows and Magnus Hatches were installed in an afternoon. Craig was blown away by the huge difference it made:

“Our saloon is large and the windows slope backward making it very hot inside. It’s gone from unbearable on a hot day to breezy and cool. I was surprised how much effect the hatches had on the air flow, the saloon is now cleared of any hot air very quickly. The result is simple, safe and easily secured”

Craig opted for a modern window tint which allows the majority of light to pass through (providing good visibility) whilst still blocking the majority of the heat and harmful rays. This is important as the glass over the saloon of his catamaran is sloped and creates a greenhouse effect if the heat gets through.

A high-quality tint or film will help keep the inside of your vessel cool even in hot climates. Window tinting is available in a range of colours and specifications and can also improve the look of your boat, help to reduce glare, block harmful UV rays and work to reduce premature fading of your vessel’s interior. 

There is a wide range of cost-effective solutions out there to keep your boat cool so you can sit back and enjoy the moment. 

Windows, hatches and window tints are the top options for decreasing temperature and improving airflow onboard. Here at ALFAB, we provide a range of solutions for boats of all shapes and sizes. For more information, be sure to get in contact with our Queensland or Victorian team today for more advice.

 

 

 

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The Haines Boats Lifestyle

These days, Haines Boats is backed by an almost cult-like following and many boating enthusiasts are regularly on the look-out for classic models to refurbish. The “Old School Haines Boats” group on Facebook now has more than 35,000 members and it’s just one of the many hubs where lovers and owners of the boats come to share their refurbishment stories and advice. Restoring older boat models can be a fun and rewarding hobby—better still, by opting to restore your Haines Boats or other classic vessel, you’ll be sure to see its value skyrocket.

Here at ALFAB, we recently assisted with a windscreen refit for a classic Haines Hunter 163. The windscreen replacement refreshed the entire look of the boat and increased visibility from the helm, but still maintained the classic feel Haines Boats followers have come to know and love. As you can see in the before and after shots, the minor adjustment of a windscreen replacement was a simple way to rejuvenate the appearance of the classic model and also improve the functionality:

 

 

 

 

 

Considering refurbishing your boat?

The team at ALFAB are proud to assist Haines Boats owners with all their marine glass needs. We’ve provided and installed many of the original windscreens for a range of Haines Boats models and we regularly perform refit and refurbishment services for our clients who are proud owners of classic models.

If you’re considering refurbishing your boat, a windscreen refit is always a perfect place to start. For Haines Boats and other brands, ALFAB is here to assist with all your marine glazing needs including windscreens, windows, doors and hatches.

For more information on our marine glass solutions, be sure to get in contact with our team of experts in Brisbane or Melbourne today.

 

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Windscreens

Whether you’ve been noticing visibility issues or you’re just considering a modern new look for your boat—a windscreen refit is a perfect solution for adding both style and functionality to your vessel. Depending on your boat, a run-around or a hard-top windscreen will likely be one of your top choices when it comes to creating a new look. At ALFAB, our technicians are experienced when it comes to replacing windscreens for a complete range of boats including speedboats, classic models and runabouts. Our team has recently installed and replaced windscreens for Nautique, Cruise Craft, Haines Hunter, Quintrex and many more.

Windows

Installing custom made windows is a great way to create a completely unique look for your boat. Perfect for vessels old and new, a window refit is perfect when improving the appearance while still keeping safety and functionality in mind. Popular window styles when refurbishing boats generally include sliding, fixed and hopper windows. The experts at ALFAB regularly install a variety of windows for boats of all shapes and sizes including curved windows, interior windows and enclosed marine windows. We provide a selection of light, medium and heavy duty extrusions to meet even the most specific requirements.

Doors

A new door installation is guaranteed to add value to your boat and completely refresh its appearance. Not only will new doors vastly improve the look of your boat, but they will also improve practicality when the wild weather hits. Corrosion resistant and weather tight, all new doors installed by ALFAB are highly durable and built to last. Popular styles among boating enthusiasts often include hinged, sliding, bi-fold and curved cabin doors. At ALFAB, we install an extensive range of marine doors to suit boats of all styles and ages—from small runaround vessels to much larger boats and yachts.

Start Refreshing Your Boat Today

If you’ve been considering replacing or upgrading your beloved boat, first try some of our simple refurbishing tips. Adjustments like windscreen, window and door refits are great solutions when it comes to improving the overall look and functionality of your boat. Here at ALFAB, our highly skilled team provides an extensive range of marine glazing solutions and installations to meet all your boat improvement needs. For more information or to arrange a quote—get in contact with ALFAB in Brisbane or Melbourne today.

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Ceracoat VS Polished Stainless Steel

Polished stainless steel has traditionally been the material of choice for boat hardware as it is tough and durable in a variety of conditions. Typically constructed from an alloy of steel and chromium, a polished stainless steel finish keeps oxygen out through the formation of a layer of chromium oxide on the surface. This thin layer is chemically passive, which means it will not react with air or water, making it a great choice for the marine environment.

Ceracoat, on the other hand, is a finish that provides two functions in one. Essentially it does the job of both a paint and a sealer, similar to how a lacquer performs with wood. This ceramic-based finish can be applied to a range of materials including metals, plastics and wood. Utilising state-of-the-art technologies, Ceracoat out-performs any other coating in both lab settings and in real-world scenarios. This finish is a great alternative to a polished stainless steel finish as it enhances physical properties such as resistance to wear, corrosion and chemicals while improving impact strength and hardness.

Benefits of Using Ceracoat

Ceracoat is becoming increasingly popular with boat builders, owners and engineers as it puts an end to grease, stains and other sediments on stainless steel and other metal surfaces. Ceracoat provides a long-lasting, tough, durable and ultra-thin layer of protection that is easy to clean and maintain. This finish is also salt-resistant and it is environmentally friendly so when it comes to being in the marine environment it can be tough while being kind.

A Ceracoat finish will also prevent barnacles, mussels and seagrasses from attaching to and/or damaging the hull of your boat. This means you need to spend less time and money cleaning your boat and removing these potentially harmful items from your vessel. What’s more, with less drag, you will get better fuel efficiency which will save you even more money in the long run.

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Consider Ceracoat

Whether you are in the market for a new boat, fixing up an old model or you are simply looking to improve function or performance on what you already have, you should consider a Ceracoat finish for your hardware, major structures or hinges, button heads and handles. With so many benefits over a stainless steel finish, Ceracoat will continue to grow in popularity. Whatever finish you decide to go with, one thing is certain, a polished stainless steel finish is certainly not your only option anymore, and it’s worth considering the other choices out there to ensure you get the best finish for the best value.

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About Assegai 51

The custom fabricated 51 is no exception with maximum performance without compromising on construction.  The large unique ‘tear drop’ shaped side windows bring the outdoors inside. The heavy-duty marine glass panel were a design creation to deliver a viewing experience and complement the external aesthetics of the vessel.  The windows have a smooth exterior all glass finish for a clean seamless appearance.

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If you have any questions about the Assegai 51 high-end game fishing boat or custom fabricated marine glass window panels and would like to speak with one of our team, please contact our friendly and knowledgeable team today.

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1. Stick to the Plan

It’s easy to get caught up in brainstorming sessions that result in a plan with less-than-ideal expectations. It’s important that you stick to what you know and what has worked in the past. Custom aluminium fabrication work is both an art and a craft, so it’s important that you refrain from limiting your collaborators with unnecessary and complicated requests. This will ensure a better collaboration and end result.

Sticking with what’s familiar and proven also enables you to correctly assess and explain the project to your collaborators. When embarking on any project, you want to ensure that you correctly communicate your needs and understand the overall process so that you can accurately estimate timelines, budgets and other logistical issues.

2. Request a Portfolio

When you need aluminium work or general metal work done, you’re going to want to make sure that your builders are able to complete the job to your expectations. In order to ensure they can deliver what you need, you should request a portfolio of their previous work.

Look for any industry expert documents that highlight their successes with similar projects to the one you are starting. Use their portfolio to assess their capabilities and even expand on your own project. Browsing through their previous work will give you a better idea of what techniques they specialise in, giving you the ability to adjust your project based on their expertise.

3. Send a Welding Coupon

If you’re unfamiliar, a welding coupon is a small representation of your entire project and is used as a kind of sample. Use a coupon to give your future collaborators a first-hand idea of what you want them to put into practice. Using a coupon will eliminate any communication limitations and makes it easier for both you and your future collaborators to expand a project from a tangible example rather than a spoken or written description.

Ensure a Successful Custom Metal Fabrication Project

Whether you’re looking for a window frame or a sliding door, you need to be sure that you clearly communicate the specifics of your project. If you want something quite particular or intricate, make sure to lay out your exact requirements and discuss the details in depth with the fabricator to ensure you get the results you want. With the right plan in place and everyone on the same page, you can be sure that your project will be a success.

 

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If you have any questions about custom metal fabrication projects and would like to speak with one of our team, please contact our friendly and knowledgeable team today.

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Cruise Craft F360 Range

• Seating capacity: 6 people
• Fuel capacity: 210L (Opt 250L)
• Length: 6.35m

The F360 series or ‘Fish 360’ is a fantastic range of vessels best suited for game fishing enthusiasts. Standard inclusions on the F360 make fishing a breeze, such as hydraulic steering, a built-in 3 drawer tackle box, 4 cleats, 4 fishing rod holders, over 700 litres of storage and a self-draining floor.

What sets this boat range apart is their frameless acrylic, cross curve, clear windscreens that comes equipped with pre-cut clearance holes for a tidy mechanical fixing. This style of windscreen is manufactured utilising a pressed heat moulding method, resulting in a seamless, easy to clean finish and increased durability of the finished material.

And that’s not all, Cruise Craft offers additional amenities so you can tailor the boat to your individual boating needs.

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It is important to keep in mind when comparing centre console boats, that the style and features of the windscreen should be considered especially carefully as this key element is responsible for protecting you and the console amenities for the natural marine environment while on board.

If you have any questions regarding our custom windscreen manufacturing services please contact our friendly and knowledgeable team today.

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One of the X60’s greatest feat in luxury can be found in its stylish multi-functional saloon that quite literally “opens up” to let the outdoors in thanks to twin massive overhead sunroofs and large vista three stage side-opening windows. These sliding boat windows are manufactured with the highest quality, triple marine glass panels and were specifically designed to evoke the feeling that you are bringing the great outdoors right inside the vessel, each having a smooth fully-glass exterior for a clean seamless appearance that enhances the overall aesthetic of the vessel. We utilise 90% new materials list for a contemporary solution to complement the vessels experience.

The X60’s game-changing “Beach Club” saloon design was fueled by the desire to keep all areas of the vessel open and connected – making it the perfect fit for those who love to entertain friends and family while enjoying life on the sea. It features water-level access, a full bar, kitchen with a large island bench, plenty of lounging space, dayhead, TV unit, 7.1 surround sound, LED lighting, storage, appliances and more!

Barry-Cotter explained, “The whole boat has been designed around that aft cabin…the engineering systems, the balance, everything – it’s all been tweaked to make that space work. By including the aft cabin in our initial plans, it has opened up so much extra accommodation space, and neutrally balanced the vessels planning characteristics for great performance.

Congratulations to everyone who participated in realising this exciting project and we look forward to continuing to push the limits and possibilities that come with custom designed marine windows and glazing solutions on future vessels.

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Have questions about our work on the new Maritimo X60?

Contact the team at Alfab today to discuss how we can help you realise your custom marine glazing project.

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1. Think About Durability

Replacing your boat windscreen or marine windows is not a job to be taken lightly and is certainly not something you want to be doing regularly. The best way to ensure replacement doesn’t become a regular task is to purchase boat windows that are durable and will stand the test of time.

Take some time to weigh up your options and speak with friends about what materials or brands they have used successfully in the past. Additionally, look for boat windows that come with a warranty so you know that you are covered if something unexpected happens.

2. Level of Clarity

Boat windows by their very nature are exposed to elements that regular household windows are not. High-quality boat windows will be pressed, polished, clear and will have a special coating designed to keep them clear over time. This coating is designed to keep them protected from small scratches and damage from the elements. Having a clear boat windscreen will not only allow you to be safer on the water but it will allow you to truly enjoy the views from your boat.

3. Look for UV Protection

In Australia’s harsh climate, UV protection is important. When your out on the water sunscreen will wash off over time and it can be easy to forget to reapply. Harsh sunlight can also cause the interior of your boat to become faded and dated looking, leaving you with one more thing to repair. When made with UV resistant materials, boat windows can act as a great barrier to the sun’s rays and provide both you and your boat with an extra level of protection.

Make the Right Call When Replacing Your Boat Windows

Taking the time to carefully consider the right boat windows for your vessel will save you time, money and future hassle. By choosing a high-quality and durable marine window, you will avoid having to replace your window again sooner than you would like. Remember to look for windows that are treated to keep them clear and that offer UV protection to keep you and your boat safe from the elements.

Once you have your new boat windows installed be sure to keep them maintained and they’ll serve you well for many years to come.

Need to Replace your Boat Windows?

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Best Fabrics for Cleaning Your Caravan Windows

Choosing the right fabrics to clean your windows is one of the most important things when cleaning your caravan. Most caravan window manufacturers in Australia use polycarbonate or acrylic plastic. These are lightweight materials, give great visibility and provide good UV protection, however, like all windows, they can be susceptible to superficial scratches.

Whatever you do, be sure to avoid using abrasive fabrics. These can lead to small scratches which, in time, will add up and greatly impact the quality of your windows. Instead, invest in some fine fabrics like microfibre cloth wipes or mitts. With their softer texture, not only will they do a better job of cleaning your windows but they won’t cause any scratching in the process.

Caravan window manufacturers in Australia will recommend that you use only mild detergent and water to clean your windows and, before deep cleaning, you make sure that you remove any small particles like sand, dust or small rocks. Failing to do so will result in you rubbing these small particles against your windows during cleaning and you will end up doing more harm than good.

How to Get Rid of Existing Scratches

If your windows are scratched, don’t worry, there are solutions. Acrylic and polycarbonate fabrics are pretty soft, so you can remove superficial scratches using a mildly abrasive polish.

It’s best to choose a mild polish and follow the instructions on the packaging carefully. You can also use an electric polisher to bring your windows back to being crystal clear again. Although you might think it will save you time, avoid using an electric drill as they are too fast, generate too much heat and will result in you having to replace your windows.

Protect Your Caravan With a Caravan Cover

If where you keep your caravan in the offseason is under a tree, an edge or a telephone pole, there’s a good chance that you will end up with a persistent bird-dropping issue. Although these stains can be tough to remove, avoid the temptation to use a scraper and instead use warm water and patience. To avoid this or any other damage to your caravan when you’re not using it in the future, be sure to use a caravan cover to protect it.

With a cover in place, your caravan will be protected from overexposure to the sun, general wear and tear and it will act as an extra level of protection from scratches or other damage. Remember, prevention is better than cure so do what you can to protect your caravan when you’re not using it and it will serve you well for many years to come.

Need to Replace your Caravan Windows?

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