All covers when initially fitted will be tight. Canvas stretches and as such a week or two with the cover erected, and all fittings attached, will take out the stretch and give a user-friendly fit.
With motorboat covers with zip-out sections, the panels can usually be rolled up rather than zip removed and this will usually be easier. Leave the to 75mm of zip attached so there is no need to separate the zip at the starting block.
Open-ended zips where the two halves completely separate can be awkward to zip up without experience and especially when the covers are new.
The trick is to start all the zips and only run the slider about 75 to 100mm. Once all zips are engaged and started, then close the zips.
It is imperative that a little silicon non-staining grease or Vaseline is placed into the alloy starting blocks of the zips and the slider and this is repeated periodically as part of servicing the zips.
To lubricate the zip teeth, candle wax rubbed against the teeth is all that is required.
Stitching will leak initially on new covers. A needle has to make a slightly larger hole than the thread. We use a sewing thread which is coated with an anti-wick treatment and will gradually seal the stitch holes with time and repeated soaking of the canvas through rain. You will notice the water ingress will decline.
A stitch sealer as used on a waterproof coat is either a brush applied clear sealer, which when dry looks unsightly or a heat welded tape which becomes delaminated with time and again looks very unsightly.
For cleaning, we recommend a soft bristle car wash brush that clips onto the end of a hosepipe and they can be brought with a long handle so the roof areas can be reached. This is all that is required if the canvas is cleaned regularly, just fresh water and gentle agitation with the brush.
For more information, read the rest of our FAQS or visit the Sunbrella following links:
Sunbrella care and cleaning pdf, Sunbrella care and cleaning video, Sunbrella technical leaflet, Sunbrella stain removal chart
Keep your Sunbrella marine canvas in top condition with Tecsew’s expert care guide. Sunbrella fabrics are designed for durability and weather resistance, but regular maintenance ensures they continue to perform at their best. Our brochure provides essential tips for cleaning, stain removal, and long-term protection, helping you maximise the lifespan of your boat covers, sprayhoods, and biminis.
What you’ll learn:
Follow our expert care guide to ensure your Sunbrella marine canvas remains vibrant and protective for years to come.
Contact us for more information.
Maintain the performance and appearance of your Sunbrella marine canvas with Tecsew’s recommended cleaning products. Sunbrella fabrics are built to withstand the elements, but proper care ensures they stay looking fresh and performing at their best for years. Our selection of specialist cleaning solutions is designed to remove dirt, stains, and mildew while protecting the fabric’s water repellency and UV resistance.
Recommended Cleaning Products:
Why Use Tecsew’s Recommended Products?
✔ Safe for Sunbrella fabrics
✔ Effective against common stains and mildew
✔ Helps maintain water repellency and UV resistance
✔ Extends the lifespan of your marine canvas
Keep your Sunbrella fabric in peak condition with the right care.
Contact us to order your Sunbrella cleaning products today.
Extend the life of your boat cover with Tecsew’s professional wash and reproof service. Over time, marine canvas can accumulate dirt, salt, and mildew, impacting its performance and appearance. Our expert cleaning and reproofing process restores water repellency and protects against UV damage, helping your cover look and function at its best for years to come.
Why choose Tecsew’s wash and reproof service?
Maintain your boat’s protection with a trusted and effective reproofing solution.
Contact us today to schedule your professional wash and reproof service.
