Having almost 60 years of combined experience in classic car upholstery, here at Rayco we take pride in educating our customers and answering any questions they may have.
We know taking care of your classic car can be much sometimes. Especially, when it comes to upholstery. That is why we reached out to our trusted supplier – Electron Top Manufacturing Company – to talk all things convertible top.
One of the least expensive tops you can buy is one that fits properly.
recited by Harold Pitman of Harold Pittmanns trim Piedmont, SC
Anatomy of a convertible top
Convertibles tops face a myriad of natural elements: snow, UV light, wind, high speeds, rain and cold temperatures, so it is imperative that the construction of the materials used in producing a convertible top are adequate and able to hold up.
Convertible tops, like clothing, rely on the quality of materials used and how good the patterns were made to fit the different body types/cars and the manner in which they were constructed. Needless to say, reinforcements are a must for areas of a convertible top that receive the most wear and tear.
When you buy a top online…
When you purchase a top online with the intention of bringing it to an upholsterer to install, it is similar to bringing your own food to a restaurant and asking them to cook it. Yes, the upholsterers mark up they make on the products but that is only to ensure you will receive a warrantee for the product they supply. They will be willing to handle any problems you may have in the future and they will do their best to make sure you are happy with the job they do.
Reputable Upholsterers are fair and interested in maintaining their reputation. It is best to let them get the product for you. In addition, Upholsterers establish relationships with their manufacturers. If something goes awry with the product they have recommended, they have the responsibility of getting it taken care of with their supplier for you.
Who will install it?
Upholstery shops are Craftsman that have spent their career learning to install convertible tops and do upholstery. They have built their reputation on the quality of their work and the quality of the products they supply. You can be sure they will use a convertible top that fits right and will hold up through their warrantee. Tops that fail cost upholstery shops both time and money.
What should a car owner do when they need their top replaced?
Find upholstery shops in your area, visit with them, ask questions and educate yourself. Question them as to how long they have been doing this kind of work, what is their warrantee, whose convertible tops do they use and why?
Ready to upholster your classic car in Delaware or Tri-State area? Call us now! Our staff has over 70 years of combined knowledge and experience in auto upholstery cleaning and repairs. In fact, there probably isn’t a job we have not done!
