Boat Cover Question

[Johnny O']

Purchased a "Westland Sharkskin" cover for my boat approx 2 yrs ago. Very happy so far except for one thing. The cover appears to have lost some of its waterproofing abilities. As a result I have 2 questions.<br />1)Can I apply more waterproofing to cover and if so what do I use?<br />2) Can I wash cover in a washing machine?

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Boat Cover Question

Any cover can be washed but never use anything but cold water.The best water proofer is formula 303 but it is pretty expensive.Make no mistake ,it is the best.I have had excellent results from the cheapest waterproofer I have ever seen.I bought it at Walmart in the camping dept.Aerosol can with a bright orange cap.$2.99 a can and did an excellent job.If you do a search on "cheap waterproofing" I actually did a post on the stuff because it worked so good.Charlie

 

[Johnny O']

Re: Boat Cover Question

Charlie, what about a washing machine to clean the cover??<br />Thanks much<br /><br />Johnny O'

 

[Surffx]

Re: Boat Cover Question

When you add the 303 stuff, does it mess up the ablility for the cover to breath. I am thinking about applying some water proofing befor the upcoming winter but I was worried about it stopping the cover from breathing.

 

[H20Bo]

Re: Boat Cover Question

It's ok to wash in a machine. Do not use cloths detergent though. Best thing is Ivory soap flakes or Woolite, and as Charlie said, cold water. I too have found the WallyMart waterproof to be good for a season.<br /><br />Jim

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Boat Cover Question

No problem with washing in a machine,though my only experience is with sunbrella and similar fabrics.Is sharkskin a fabric or a vinyl??Either waterproofing lets the fabric breather fine.Charlie

 

[Johnny O']

Re: Boat Cover Question

Thanks to all you guys were a big help.

 

[CF 5491 PF]

Re: Boat Cover Question

The cover might have lost some of its waterproofing because of stretching, such as when it rains and you forget the poles for the cover. The water puddles in the cover and it stretches until it starts to leak. I dont know if thats the problem, usually it takes longer than two years to wear out a nice cover like a Westland.

 

[Johnny O']

Re: Boat Cover Question

CF you might be onto something there. I keep the cover well supported during the winter but now that you mention it there have been times when I have had puddling on the cover.