How To Waterproof A Canvas
Mark Jansen
There are times that we can never curb the forces of nature.
This just goes to show that nature is, indeed, powerful and can
destroy anything and everything. So, the only way we can do is
to provide protection from the raging effects of nature.
One way to do this is through waterproofing. Waterproofing has
been a great technique in preventing the penetration of water
to any material.
Whenever you waterproof a material, you apply a certain
waterproof matter that is designed to provide utmost protection
against the imminent effect of water. This, in turn, serves as a
wall between the material and water.
There are many types of waterproofing. One of them is canvas
waterproofing. This method is used particularly on materials
made of canvas.
In most instances, the typical type of cotton canvas is already
a waterproof material. Therefore, it does not need any
waterproofing. Its fibers puff up whenever they are exposed to
water, thus, it closes the knits of the canvas.
However, because of the canvas’ vulnerability to mildew and
“bird droppings,” it is still subjected to canvas
waterproofing. This is because canvas waterproofing does not
only protect the canvas from water alone but also from other
substances that can cause damage on the item.
So, for those who want to know about canvas waterproofing, here
are some pointers you need to know:
1. Do not use silicone-based canvas waterproofing.
Never attempt to use silicone-based canvas waterproofing on
acrylic canvas. Silicone clashes with the original application.
Normally, acrylic canvas primarily contains a canvas
waterproofing chemical known as fluorocarbon, which in turn,
repels the silicone material when applied. If this happens, it
will result into an erratic treatment. Silicon can also
eliminate the “stain-resistance” substance in the acrylic
canvas.
2. Use a product with fluoropolymer.
When doing canvas waterproofing, it is best that you use a
fluoropolymer-based substance. This type of canvas
waterproofing is compatible with the acrylic canvas. Hence, it
will result into a more durable and sturdy acrylic canvas.
3. Use a waterproof material that contains petroleum.
Petroleum-based materials have long been proven to be effective
when doing a canvas waterproofing. They are very compatible with
acrylic canvas. Petroleum-based substances work best in canvas
waterproofing than those substances that are water-based.
The best way to identify a petroleum-based substances to be
used in canvas waterproofing is to through its pungent smell.
4. When performing canvas waterproofing, do it outdoors.
It is best that you do canvas waterproofing outside the house
because of the substance’s very strong odor. You might get
suffocated once you do it inside the house. Therefore, it is
best that you do canvas waterproofing where there is proper
ventilation.
Besides, these strong substances used in canvas waterproofing
can also damage your furniture made of plastics. So, it is a
must that you take extra care when doing canvas waterproofing.
5. Use protective covers for sensitive furniture.
If you will do a canvas waterproofing on a canvas dodger, it is
best that you protect your plastic furniture first before you
start with the process. You can do this by placing foil over
the plastic materials.
6. Do a spot test first.
It is best that before you start the process, do a spot test
first. This is to know whether the substance used in canvas
waterproofing will not discolour your canvas or cause further
damage.
7. Remove the canvas from the boat.
It is best that before you start waterproofing, you should
first remove the canvas from the boat. This is to ensure that
the hard surfaces will not slick. Also, there are waterproofing
substances that can cause a damaging reaction against gelcoat.
However, if you find this tedious and very unworkable, try to
protect all areas vulnerable to “overspray” instead.
8. Let it dry first.
After waterproofing, let the canvas dry first before
reinstalling it. In this manner, the pungent smell will soon be
eliminated.
However, experts strongly suggest that after the canvas has
been dried, it would be better to apply a second dose of
waterproofing. This is to ensure durability of the material. It
is still safe to do this and will not affect the fabric’s
overall condition.
9. Reapply when necessary.
Repeat the process whenever the canvas is exposed in callous
conditions. Though, experts say that after doing a
waterproofing, the protection is guaranteed for one year at the
least.
So, now that you know how to do canvas waterproofing, you can
be assured that your canvas will always stay in top condition.
As they say, it is better to prevent damage than to cure it.
About The Author: For more great waterproofing info and advice
check out:
http://www.waterproofingadvisor.com
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