There are times that we can never curb the forces of nature, which just shows that nature is indeed powerful and can destroy anything. So, the only way we can do this is to protect from the raging effects of nature.
One way to do this is through waterproofing. Waterproofing has been an effective technique in preventing the penetration of water into any material.
Whenever you waterproof a material, you apply a specific waterproof matter 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. Canvas waterproofing does not only protect the canvas from water alone but also from other substances that can cause damage to 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 in 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, you should use a fluoropolymer-based substance. This type of canvas waterproofing is compatible with acrylic canvas. Hence, it will result in a more durable and sturdy acrylic canvas.
3. Use a waterproof material that contains petroleum.
Petroleum-based materials have long proven to be effective when doing 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 petroleum-based substances to be used in canvas waterproofing is to through its pungent smell.
4. When performing canvas waterproofing, do it outdoors.
Canvas waterproofing should be done outside the house because of the substance’s strong odor. You might get suffocated once you do it inside the house. Therefore, you should do canvas waterproofing where there is proper ventilation. Besides, these 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 do canvas waterproofing on a canvas dodger, you should 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.
Do a spot test first before you start the process to know whether the substance used in canvas waterproofing will not discolor your canvas or cause further damage.
7. Remove the canvas from the boat.
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 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 the 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 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.
