Tidewater Boat Hardtop Frame – Custom Aluminum

Custom Hardtop Frame for Tidewater Boats

We built this tidewater boat hardtop frame for a customer whose original frame had cracked in several spots. Instead of trying to patch weak pipe, we designed and welded a new structure from 2″ marine-grade aluminum. The larger pipe gives the frame more strength than the original 1.5″ tubing. Because we bent the uprights and side rails to match the console and hardtop, the finished frame has a sleek, factory-style look.

Hardtop Layout, Rod Holders, and Lights

This Tidewater center console runs an existing fiberglass hardtop, so we built the frame to fit the top and cover old mounting holes. Four rod holders are standard on our custom fiberglass hardtops, and you can always add more if you need extra storage. For this build, the customer chose one forward spreader light and two rear spreader lights. As a result, the bow and cockpit both stay well lit at night while drawing very little power.

Finish Options for an Aluminum Hardtop Frame

We install each tidewater boat hardtop frame with stainless steel screws and marine adhesive. The adhesive bonds the frame to the top, and the stainless hardware will not rust. Our standard finish is bright anodized aluminum, which helps protect the pipe from corrosion and keeps cleanup easy. However, some owners want a different look and choose a powder coated hardtop frame. Powder coating is available in many colors and pairs well with matching leaning posts and grab rails.

Gelcoat Color Matching and Hardtop Sizes

We stock several fiberglass hardtop sizes from 85″ up to 108″. This range lets us match many center console layouts. In addition, we offer dozens of gelcoat colors, so we can match Tidewater hulls and consoles very closely. A clean color match makes the new hardtop look like it came on the boat from day one.

Questions About a Tidewater Boat Hardtop Frame?

If you are planning a new tidewater boat hardtop frame or replacing a damaged one, start by browsing our Boat T Tops Fab Talk posts for ideas. Then reach out through our contact page with photos of your console and current top. Our team will help you choose pipe size, rod holder layout, and light options. To see more of our tops on the water, check out the Fish Fab Hunt custom T-top and hardtop video on YouTube.