Business Details
30 Years
experience
Custom Boat Awnings for Sun and Rain Protection
Shadetree Boat Awning Systems has been crafting innovative marine awning solutions since 1996. Founded by Tom Schlinkert, an avid sailor and outdoor enthusiast, our company emerged from a practical need observed at a local marina. By adapting tent wands into flexible carbon/fiberglass support systems, we revolutionized boat shade technology. Our patented dome-shaped awnings provide unparalleled protection from sun and rain while maintaining structural integrity in high winds. With over 25 years of continuous improvement, we combine USA-made craftsmanship with advanced materials featuring 7-year UV protection warranties. Our modular designs accommodate diverse boat models, from sailboats to catamarans, with customizable options for rigging splits and color preferences.Customer testimonials consistently highlight our products' durability, ease of installation, and functional aesthetics. Our engineering prioritizes dynamic wind resistance through flexible support systems that deform and reform under load. We maintain rigorous quality control across all components, from marine-grade hardware to reinforced fabric seams. Our commitment to innovation remains rooted in solving real-world boating challenges while maintaining competitive pricing for both stock and custom solutions.
Services
Boat Awnings
Custom Designs
Replacement Parts
Measuring Services
Installation Guides
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We offer USA-made awnings with 7-year UV protection warranties
- Our patented flexible support system withstands high wind loads
- Customizable designs for over 100 popular boat models
- Modular components enable easy replacement and repair
- Proven durability in extreme weather conditions worldwide
What people say
Super functional
Withstood 30 knot winds
Cooling effect
Easy deployment
Durable construction
Services
Boat Awnings
Our self-supporting boat awnings use carbon/fiberglass wands and UV-resistant fabric to create durable marine shade structures. The dome-shaped design provides 360-degree protection while allowing ventilation through covered hatches. Flexible support systems dynamically respond to wind loads, maintaining structural integrity in extreme conditions.
Custom Designs
We offer customized awning configurations for unique boat dimensions and rigging requirements. Our engineering team creates specialized pass-through splits and tapered designs to accommodate varying hull shapes while maintaining structural performance. Custom color options and material upgrades are available for specific environmental conditions.
Replacement Parts
Modular replacement components include support wands, webbing straps, and fastening hardware. Our standardized parts system allows targeted repairs without full awning replacement. Marine-grade materials ensure continued performance when replacing individual components in aging installations.
Measuring Services
We provide detailed measurement guides and consultation for proper awning fit. Our system accommodates popular boat models while offering custom solutions for unique configurations. Professional measurement verification ensures optimal coverage and structural compatibility with existing rigging.
Installation Guides
Comprehensive installation instructions include step-by-step diagrams and hardware specifications. Our support team provides guidance for proper tensioning and attachment points. Training resources cover maintenance procedures and seasonal storage recommendations for extended product life.
People
Tom Schlinkert
Founder
Tom Schlinkert, founder of Shadetree, leverages decades of outdoor industry experience to solve marine shading challenges. His background in tent manufacturing inspired the patented awning design after observing marina needs firsthand. He continues guiding product development while maintaining USA-based manufacturing standards.
Questions
How do Shadetree awnings handle high winds?
Flexible carbon/fiberglass supports dynamically flex under wind load while maintaining structural integrity. The awning deforms to reduce stress then returns to shape when winds subside.
Can I install a Shadetree on my catamaran?
Yes, we offer specialized models for catamarans with wider beam requirements. Our 241 and 242 models accommodate 180" beam widths with 10-section support systems.
What warranty coverage applies?
Our fabric carries a 7-year UV protection warranty. Hardware components are covered against manufacturing defects with modular replacement parts available for extended use.
How long does installation take?
First-time installations typically take 15-30 minutes. Most customers achieve 5-minute setup times after initial practice with our intuitive attachment system.
Do you offer custom color options?
Standard color is light gray. Custom colors are available at additional cost with extended lead times for specialized dyeing and fabric treatment processes.
Can I modify an existing awning?
We offer reshaping services for standard models at $40 per modification. Custom alterations require engineering review to maintain structural performance specifications.
