Bimini Top Hardware is a structure similar to canopy and is generally in use so that the body of a boat can be covered. It is generally supported by a frame made of metal. However, these are retractable and hence can be removed if required. During rainy season or extreme sunlight, these tops come really handy. You should not mistake these with Dodgers which has shades in the front side as well. These Bimini tops are fragile in nature and have no protection for you against wind.
Bimini Tops History
Bahamian Island is the place where these tops were invented for the first time. Bahamian Island is located near the Tropic of Cancer and hence extreme heat waves are experienced there all over the year. The inhabitants were using dodgers to protect themselves from heat waves in the beginning, however, that were not leaving them with any room for ventilation. Then, Bimini top hardware came into the picture. These were handy in both ways, the Bahamians were protected from scorching heat waves, at the same time, they were provided with wind through the open sideways.
Different Types of Bimini Top Hardware
These days, Bimini tops are high on demand and hence numerous types of these tops are available throughout the market. Certain tops are made of Polyester and these are the most expensive in the market. However, at the same time, they are very durable and provide good shade against the sun heat. Thus, the effectiveness of polyester made tops is quite high. There are also cotton made tops which are cheaper; but these don't score well when it comes to the polyester made ones.
If you have a knack for your favorite color, you don't be disheartened. From grey to red, you will find these tops in all possible colors. Mostly, boat owners tend to match the color of the top with that of the boat. The metal frame that provides support to the top is generally of silver color.
Important arrangements to make
Before you go and order a Bimini top for your boat, there are certain things that you must take care of. You should understand what measurements you want for your boat top and hence must adhere to that. Otherwise, it will look kind of odd of sorts. If possible, hiring a professional to get the correct measurements should be a better idea.
The height of the top is also an important aspect to consider & it's mostly dependant on the user. Some may like it to be high enough so they can stand below it, whereas, some like to crouch under the same. In general, the low height tops are found in power boats and ski boat; whereas, the medium height ones are found more abundantly in fishing boats.

Installing the top
It's very easy to install these tops. Generally, the entire kit is available in any of the local hardware stores. You can even find the kit if you search online. The Bimini top can be installed easily thanks to the simple tools that are available most of the times in the home itself.