The Butler Did It (Elkton, MD)

On June 28, 2024 we met with Representatives, DJ VanReenen & Lauren Jones from The Butler Did It (Elkton, MD) with a list of makeover and new projects. Given the cost and scope we preferred to prioritize the project into three phases.

Based on our past experience in working with various vendors over the years of us boating we do insist to be onboard and present with any boardings and work preformed. So, to their defense the dates may be longer than your expertise given our request.

Our 2 Cents Review remains as a “Pending” status until all Phases are completed. During the interim here’s our Phase breakout with “before” and “after” photos.

Phase 1

• Phifertex White New Mesh Screen Covers & Snaps (2 Windows & 1 Door) (Cockpit)
• Reupholster Bench Seat with Luxor Leather in Stealth (Pilothouse)
• Reupholster (6) Headliners with Softside Marine Collection Blackbeard Marlin MRL-3226) (Pilothouse)
• Replace Stern Canvas Control Cover in Sunbrella White

Tips:

• Soak Mesh Screen Covers in a water with Dawn Dish Soap and OxiClean Powder.
• Use Meguiars G18616 Conditioner Leather Gold Class (or wipes) sprayed into a cloth then wipe onto leather seats to clean and treat.
• Use Sprayway Glass Cleaner sprayed into a cloth then wipe onto vinyl headliners to clean.

Start Date: Tuesday, 8/13/24
End Date: Thursday, 9/5/24
Cost: $7,925

Phase 1 “Before” & “After” Photos

Regrettably, the cockpit mesh screen window coverings were not symmetrical to our existing, what we had spoke about or even requested. Meeting with DJ & Lauren, they agreed and were committed to making it right. Sadly, their Seamster made unauthorized alterations. By no means a quick fix! The 24 drill holes had to be filled and sanded. To best avoid, noticeable touch up painting, the entire cockpit wall had to be repainted according to their fiberglass subcontractor, Chris Zeauskas. Not to mention the cockpit mesh screen window coverings completely redone.

Phase 2

We did not commence Phase 2 as we had hoped over 2024 winter storage due to unexpected the distractions and focus to our health. Upon Spring 2025, their schedules did not permit to do both phases, so we had to make a decision and opted to move forward with Phase 3.

Phase 3

• Replace Bench Seat Cover with Sunbrella Charcoal Gray (Flybridge)
• Replace Control Panel Cover with Sunbrella Charcoal Gray (Flybridge)
• Replace (2) Helm Seat Covers with Sunbrella Charcoal Gray (Flybridge)
• Replace (2) Winch Covers with Sunbrella Charcoal Gray (Upper Deck)
• Reupholster Bench Seat with Sunbrella Marine Blue & White Tubing (Flybridge)

We had a Aft Deck Sun Shield in Phifertex White ($1,900) to be done as well; however, in our effort to free up cockpit floor space we decided to relocate our portable grill to a rail mount which would interfere with the sun shield.

Start Date: Tuesday, 5/20/25
End Date: Pending
Cost: $4,410 (Originally $6,310)

Phase 3 “Before” & “After” Photos