When you set out to make a new cover for your boat you want to be sure it’s going to hold up for years to come in rain or shine and in order to do that you need to select the right fabric.
To ensure you make the right decision, it’s important to weigh-up the facts about different types of fabrics to work out what is best for your boat and your local environment.
So here are a few options to consider when choosing a fabric for your new boat cover and just why you should or shouldn’t chose them.
Cotton Canvas
Cotton canvas is usually the least expensive option, and provides good all-around protection in mild climates. Cotton is a natural fiber that is very breathable, but is not completely waterproof. Marine-grade 100% cotton, however, is specially treated to be water repellent, as well as providing protection against mildew and rot.
Although canvas is most often used for mooring and long-term storage, the addition of tie-down strap system will make them suitable for highway towing. When faced with a choice of weave, a duck canvas has a tighter weave, and is therefore more durable than standard types. A good custom-fit boat cover, made of 100% canvas, will usually have a 2-3 year warranty.
Polyester
Polyester is one of the strongest materials, providing the greatest outdoor durability of almost any other boat cover fabric. Most premium custom-made boat covers are made of 100% polyester.
Polyester covers are found in varying weights, usually between 6-10 ozs. And there are premium covers that have a special coating of acrylic or urethane to add durability and water proofing. Warranties range from 3 to 7 years.
Not only is polyester as strong and durable as fabrics twice its weight, it is extremely water repellent as well as being one of the most stain, rot, mildew, and UV resistant materials available to provide boat protection. Plus, it will not shrink or stretch like budget canvas.
Poly/Cotton Blends
This is probably the best of both worlds as it combines the strength and water repellence of polyester with the low price and breathability of canvas. A good balance is 70/30 polyester/cotton, but look for the highest percentage of polyester.
Despite the inclusion of more expensive polyester fabric, poly/cotton blends still make very economical boat covers. Yet they still hold up well under highway towing. So if you’re looking for a compromise between budget and performance, poly/cotton is your best bet. Warranties are typically 3 years.