leaky cover

[brs517]

I have a canvas cover for my bowrider, and ever since I've had the boat (about 3 years), water pools inside the boat after it rains. The cover is stretched tight, covers the entire boat, and water DOES NOT pool anywhere on the cover.<br /><br />I've tried to buy some canvas waterproofing (in a spray can) but it didn't do much good.<br /><br />So, I guess my question is...do canvas covers wear out after awhile? I'm just wondering if it's time for a new cover, although I'd prefer to spend the $$ on something else given the choice.<br /><br />Thanks<br />Brian

 

[SS MAYFLOAT]

Re: leaky cover

How much water is leaking in? Do you have drastic temperture changes? It is possible if you have a wide range of temperture changes that the water could be condensation from under the canvas. <br /><br />I think an oil based waterproofer for the canvas would help the water to bead up and roll off. I'm not sure where or what brand to use. I'm sure someone here has been through the same situation and they may help provide that answer.<br /><br />Just something to think about...

 

[Bondo]

Re: leaky cover

I've had Great Luck with Scotch Guard........<br /><br />Are you Absolutely Sure the Cover is the Problem ????<br /><br />Leaks can be Very Decieving.......

 

[brs517]

Re: leaky cover

Thanks. I'm pretty darn sure it is the cover, although I'm not sure what else would cause this problem. I've vacuumed about 1-2 gallons of water from inside after a hard rain. I really have no idea where else it might leak in, unless it's through the cover. I'll check into the Scotch Guard idea, thank you.

 

[Boomyal]

Re: leaky cover

go to an upholstery/canvas supply company and buy a gallon of Aqua-tite. I paid about $28 for the gallon. My cover is a sunbrella type fabric. If you crawl in the boat and look up, you cannot believe the pinprick size holes of light coming thru but the cover does not leak a drop.<br /><br />The best way to apply it is with a hand spray bottle. Don't waste your time with aerosol scotchgard. It'll bankrupt you. <br /><br />Although my cover does not puddle when tied down securely, I've had water puddle when I have not secured it. Run my hand under the puddle and it is dry.

 

[18rabbit]

Re: leaky cover

Waterproof fabric often leaks at the seams if untreated. The sewing thread acts as a wick to pull water right on through.

 

[18rabbit]

Re: leaky cover

I received the current issue of Powerboat Reports in the mail today. The results of their water repellents for fabric evaluations is in it. Top pick is a product called 303 Fabric Guard . It beat out Scotch Gard Heavy Duty . ReviveX also beat out Scotch Gard, performing perfectly like 303 Fabric Guard but costing more. Boomyal’s suggestion of Agua-tite was not evaluated.

 

[garycinn]

Re: leaky cover

Check out an Attwood Dura-vent cover. I have one and love it. It sheds water 100% yet it breathes and doesn't hold moisture in. Very decent price too. My 20' runabout was about $100 US.

 

[oregonducker]

Re: leaky cover

If you think it's leaking, next time it's raining get under it with a flashlight and have someone close it up like it normally is. If it only happens when it rains I'd think you'd find the problem if you're in there looking.

 

[massimofinance]

Re: leaky cover

Hi all, just wanted to bump this post to see if there is any new thoughts on waterproofing canvas bimini covers. Thanks.<br /><br />MAX

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: leaky cover

1 to 2 gallons is not a lot of water to bleed through a fairly treated canvas.Spray the canvas with a hose and follow the path of the streaming water.See exactly where it flows off of the boat.There may be a prop rod hole right in the path of the water.You should surely treat the canvas but if you want to check if it is the canvas that is the problem,then get couple of those cheap plastic dropcloths for painting.Drape it over the cover and tuck the ends under each snap and snap it under the cover.Duct tape it if you need to connect 2 or more.Do this just before a rain is expected and check it right after.If you still have water in the boat at least you have eliminated the cover as a culprit.Just make sure you remove the plastic when you are done checking because it wont allow the boat to breathe and can cause mildew if left on.Charlie

 

[rwidman]

Re: leaky cover

Originally posted by oregonducker:<br /> If you think it's leaking, next time it's raining get under it with a flashlight ......

You can do this anytime by having someone spray it with a hose. That's what I would do. <br /><br />If the cover rests on an inside surface such as a seat back or sunpad the water may be entering there.