Best Waterproofers To Protect Your Boat Canvas

Waterproofing your boat's canvas is essential to keeping your boat safe and dry. The best waterproofer for boat canvas will depend on your boat's specific needs.

There are a variety of waterproofing sprays available on the market, each with its own unique formula and set of benefits. Some sprays are designed to repel water and protect against UV rays, while others focus on being safe and eco-friendly. It's important to consider the type of fabric your boat canvas is made of and choose a spray that is suitable for that material.

In addition to sprays, there are also waterproofing waxes and wash-in products available. Wax is an old-school method of waterproofing that can be effective, but it can be tricky to apply evenly and requires heat to seal. Wash-in products are a convenient option as they can be applied directly to the washing machine, but they may not be suitable for all types of fabric.

When choosing a waterproofing product, it's crucial to read the instructions carefully and consider the application method, drying time, and any potential impact on the fabric's colour or texture. It's also important to ensure that the fabric is clean before applying any waterproofing treatment.

Best waterproofer for traditional cotton canvas

Traditional cotton canvas is waterproofed in the same way that traditional wooden boats are waterproofed. The cotton fibres swell when they get wet, sealing the weave. However, because cotton canvas is susceptible to mildew and damage from bird droppings, it is not often used on boats anymore. It has been largely replaced by vinyl-coated polyester or woven acrylic.

Vinyl-Coated Polyester

Vinyl-coated fabric is waterproof but does not breathe. Therefore, unless it is well-ventilated, condensation can build up and lead to mildew. It is a good choice for Bimini tops but not for enclosures such as sail covers or boat covers.

Acrylic Canvas

Acrylic canvas is a tight-weave fabric that is waterproof and breathable. It stands up to UV radiation, resists mildew and staining, is colour-fast, and comes in a wide range of colours. Acrylic canvas is the most popular marine fabric. However, it gets its water repellency from a chemical treatment, which eventually loses its effectiveness. Acrylic canvas may start to leak after about three years of continuous use, and scrubbing or detergent use may hasten the failure of the coating.

Waterproofing Acrylic Canvas

When reproofing acrylic canvas, it is important not to use a waterproofing treatment that contains silicone as this is incompatible with the original fluorocarbon treatment. The best treatment for acrylic canvas is a fluoropolymer-based product. Waterproofers with a petroleum base have demonstrated better performance on acrylic canvas than water-based treatments.

Before waterproofing, the canvas should be cleaned with a mild detergent and allowed to air-dry completely. Spirit-based treatments should only be used in well-ventilated areas as they give off noxious odours. They will also damage plastic windows and zippers, so these should be removed or protected before treatment. Water repellents can also damage gelcoat and will make hard surfaces dangerously slick. It is recommended to remove the canvas from the boat before treatment.

Recommended Products

• 303 Marine Fabric Guard
• Canvak Industrial Quality Water Resistant Canvas Preservative Liquid Wax
• Star Brite Waterproofing Spray
• Pedag PFAS-Free Waterproofer
• Fabric Protector Spray for Upholstery, Canvas, and Outdoor Fabrics
• Canvas Shield Waterproofing Kit

Best waterproofer for vinyl-coated polyester

When it comes to waterproofing boat canvas, vinyl-coated polyester is a popular choice. This type of fabric is waterproof and highly resistant to tears and abrasion, making it ideal for boat covers. It is important to note that vinyl-coated fabric does not breathe, so proper ventilation is necessary to prevent condensation and mildew. While it is a good option for Bimini tops, it is not suitable for enclosures such as sail covers or boat covers.

To waterproof vinyl-coated polyester, there are several products available:

• Star Brite Waterproofing Spray offers waterproofing, UV protection, and stain repellency. It is suitable for boat covers, Bimini tops, and other marine applications.
• 303 Marine Fabric Guard is a manufacturer-recommended product that restores water and stain repellency to factory-new levels. It is safe for all fabrics.
• Fabric Waterproof Spray is a heavy-duty waterproofing spray that can be used on boat tops, vinyl seats, tents, and other outdoor gear.
• Canvas Shield Waterproofing Kit is a two-part system that includes a fabric cleaner and a waterproofing agent. It is designed to effectively clean and waterproof marine fabrics, including boat covers, Bimini tops, and sails.
• Xtreme Sight Line offers vinyl-coated polyester fabric in various weights and widths, which can be purchased by the yard or roll.
• Ottertex provides a range of waterproof vinyl-coated fabrics in different colours and widths, sold by the yard.

When choosing a waterproofing product, it is important to consider the specific needs of your vinyl-coated polyester application. Some products may be more suitable for certain fabrics or may offer additional benefits such as UV protection or stain resistance. It is always a good idea to spot test the treatment in an inconspicuous area to ensure it does not cause any discolouration or adverse effects.

Best waterproofer for acrylic canvas

When it comes to choosing the best waterproofer for your boat's acrylic canvas, there are several effective options available. Here are some detailed recommendations and instructions to help you make an informed decision:

Understanding Acrylic Canvas

Acrylic canvas is a popular choice for boat covers due to its tight weave, breathability, resistance to mildew, and ability to withstand ultraviolet radiation. However, one of its drawbacks is that it requires reproofing over time as the chemical treatment providing water repellency diminishes.

Choosing the Right Waterproofer

It is crucial to select a waterproofer that is compatible with acrylic canvas. Here are some specific recommendations and guidelines:

• Fluoropolymer-based products: These treatments are highly effective and compatible with the original finish of acrylic canvas. They offer long-lasting results.
• Petroleum-based products: Waterproofers with a petroleum base tend to perform better on acrylic canvas compared to water-based treatments. These products are usually identified by their strong odour.
• Avoid silicone-based products: Silicone-based treatments should be avoided as they are incompatible with the original waterproofing treatment used on acrylic canvas. Silicone may also compromise the fabric's stain resistance.

Application Process

• Cleaning the canvas: Before applying any waterproofer, ensure that the canvas is thoroughly cleaned. You can use a mild detergent and a soft brush to remove any dirt or stains. Avoid using harsh detergents or putting the canvas in a dryer.
• Ventilation and protection: Waterproofing treatments typically have strong odours, so it's best to work in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors. If your canvas has plastic windows or zippers, be careful to protect or remove them, as spirit-based treatments can damage these components.
• Testing and application: It is recommended to perform a spot test to ensure the treatment does not cause any colour changes. Most products will require two light coats applied in a "plaid" pattern (perpendicular to each other) for uniform coverage. Always follow the specific instructions on your chosen product's container.
• Drying and reinstallation: Allow the treatment to dry completely before reinstalling the canvas. Refer to the product instructions for the specified drying time. Once dry, the canvas should be waterproof again, and its other qualities, such as breathability, will be unaffected.
• Reapplication: Depending on the usage and conditions, you may need to reapply the waterproofing treatment annually or after a few years. Continuous use, harsh conditions, and cleaning methods can impact the longevity of the treatment.

Recommended Products

• 303 Marine Fabric Guard: This product is recommended by Sunbrella and other fabric manufacturers to restore water repellency. It is safe for all fabrics.
• STAR BRITE Waterproofing Spray: This spray provides water repellency, stain repellency, and UV protection for boat covers and other outdoor items.
• Fabric Waterproof Spray: This heavy-duty waterproofing spray is suitable for outdoor canvas boat tops and other items, offering protection against water and stains.
• CANVAS SHIELD Fabric Guard: This product is designed to clean and waterproof marine fabrics effectively. It uses DRYKON® NANOIZED POLYMER® technology, which repels water and stains while maintaining the breathability of the canvas.
• Otter Wax Fabric Wax Bar: This natural and effective beeswax waterproofer can be used on various items, including canvas, shoes, hats, jackets, and outdoor gear.

Best waterproofer for Sunbrella canvas

Sunbrella is a popular brand of marine canvas, and it is important to keep your boat covers clean and dry. Sunbrella is made from acrylic canvas, which is a tight-weave fabric that is waterproof and breathable. It stands up to ultraviolet radiation (sun exposure) better than any other fabric, resists mildew, resists staining, is colourfast, and comes in a variety of colours.

To keep your Sunbrella boat covers in good condition, it is important to clean and waterproof them regularly. Here are some tips and products to help you do that:

• Do not use a waterproofing treatment that contains silicone on acrylic canvas as it is incompatible with the original treatment.
• The best treatment for acrylic canvas is a fluoropolymer-based product, which is compatible with the original finish and provides excellent and long-lasting results.
• Waterproofers with a petroleum-based vehicle have demonstrated better performance on acrylic canvas than water-based treatments.
• Before applying a waterproofing treatment, it is recommended to clean the canvas with a mild detergent and allow it to air dry completely.
• When applying the waterproofing treatment, follow the instructions on the product, but most call for spraying on two light coats, with the second applied perpendicular to the first.
• Allow the treatment to dry completely before reinstalling the canvas, and protect the treated fabric from moisture until it is fully cured.
• Depending on the use and conditions, the waterproofing treatment should last for at least a year before needing to be reapplied.
• 303 Marine Fabric Guard: This product is recommended by the manufacturer of Sunbrella and is suitable for all fabrics. It restores water repellency, protects against stains, and provides UV screening. It is available in a 16 oz spray can or a 1-gallon bottle.
• STAR BRITE Waterproofing Spray: This product is suitable for Sunbrella boat covers and provides water repellency, stain repellency, and UV protection. It is available in a 22 oz or 1-gallon bottle.
• Scotchgard Outdoor Water Shield: This product is suitable for protecting outdoor fabrics from water and sun damage. It is available in a pack of two 10.5 oz cans or a pack of four 10.5 oz cans.
• Sunbrella Restore Fabric Protector Spray: This product is specifically designed for Sunbrella fabrics and provides waterproofing and upholstery protection. It is available in a 16 oz or 32 oz bottle.
• Canvas Shield Waterproofing Kit: This kit includes a fabric guard and a fabric cleaner that can be used to clean and waterproof Sunbrella boat covers, bimini tops, sails, upholstery, and awnings. It utilises DRYKON Nanoized Polymer technology to create a hydrophobic and oleophobic coating that resists water, stains, and mould while maintaining the breathability of the fabric.

By regularly cleaning and waterproofing your Sunbrella boat covers, you can extend their life and maintain their functionality and appearance.

Best waterproofer for Top Gun canvas

Top Gun is a brand of 100% woven polyester fabric, which is waterproof and super strong. It is coated in acrylic, which makes it highly water repellent, UV and mildew resistant, and gives it high strength and abrasion resistance.

Top Gun fabric is ideal for boat covers, as it is highly water repellent and mildew resistant. It is also reversible, with both sides coated, and comes in a wide variety of colours.

To maintain your Top Gun fabric, it is recommended to clean it with a mild soap and a soft brush, followed by a thorough rinse.

If you are looking for a waterproofer for Top Gun fabric, it is important to note that it is already highly water repellent. However, if you are looking to enhance its water-resistant properties, there are a few products on the market that can help.

One option is the Canvas Shield Waterproofing Kit, which is specifically designed to clean and waterproof marine fabrics. The kit includes a fabric guard and a fabric cleaner. The fabric guard uses DRYKON Nanoized Polymer technology to create a hydrophobic and oleophobic coating on the fabric, which repels water and stains while maintaining the breathability of the fabric. The fabric cleaner, called Fabri-Klean, is designed to remove tough dirt and stains from marine fabrics without damaging them.

Another option is a fluoropolymer-based product, as these are compatible with the original acrylic coating on Top Gun fabric and provide excellent, long-lasting results. It is important to avoid using a waterproofing treatment that contains silicone, as it is incompatible with the original acrylic coating and will result in patchy coverage.

When applying a waterproofing treatment, be sure to follow the instructions on the product packaging. Most products will require you to spray on two light coats, with the second coat applied perpendicular to the first. Allow the treatment to dry completely before using the fabric.

In addition to the Canvas Shield Kit and fluoropolymer-based products, there are also several waterproofing sprays and sealants on the market that can be used on marine fabrics. These include the STAR BRITE Waterproofing Spray, 303 Marine Fabric Guard, and GEAR AID Seam Grip WP Waterproof Sealant.

Frequently asked questions