Fabric for awnings, canopies, boats, outdoor curtains and car covers: names and characteristics

Selecting the proper fabric is essential for outdoor applications such as boat covers, canopies, awnings, and car covers. These materials must be long-lasting, impervious to weather, and able to endure the elements over time. Whether you’re outfitting a boat, shading your backyard, or protecting a car, the fabric you choose will have a significant impact on its longevity and performance.

Various kinds of fabrics are created especially for these uses. While some are UV- or water-resistant, others have superior breathability. Every fabric has a unique set of qualities that make it appropriate for a particular outdoor application.

We’ll look at different types of fabrics used for boats, canopies, awnings, outdoor curtains, and car covers in this article. You’ll discover their names, what distinguishes them, and how to pick the ideal one for your requirements.

Important qualities of the material

The following qualities must be considered when selecting boat awning fabric in order for it to last a long time:

• resistance to weather conditions;
• does not deteriorate with mechanical damage;
• does not deform with a sharp change in temperature;
• repel water;
• resistance to chemicals.

Crucial! The awning fabric shouldn’t release any chemicals that are bad for the environment or people, even if it is composed of synthetic fibers.

There shouldn’t be any rotting of the awning. Impregnations that repel dust and dirt are additional features that raise the fabric’s value.

It’s important to know which materials are specifically made for outdoor use when selecting fabric for awnings, canopies, boats, outdoor curtains, and car covers. These materials, which include canvas, polyester, and vinyl, are perfect for withstanding severe weather conditions and offering long-lasting protection because of their durability, water resistance, and UV protection. Every cloth has distinct qualities that meet various demands, such as providing sun protection, mold resistance, or durability in harsh settings.

Varieties and their purpose

Polyester and polyamide fibres are used to make awning fabric. There are blended compositions, which combine natural and synthetic fibers. In actuality, though, these awnings won’t endure very long.

Materials made of polyester and polyamide resist tearing. Although polyamide fibers are cheap, annual UV radiation exposure can cause them to lose up to 40% of their strength. This disadvantage does not apply to polyester compounds, which do not stretch when exposed to water. high price.

There is a "PE" designation. This indicates that there is a polyethylene reinforcing layer in the fabric.

PVC

One artificially produced material with a mixed composition is polyvinyl chloride, or PVC. In France, the first samples were collected in 1835. PVC was first produced industrially in 1931.

The fabric is made of polyester and nylon (lavsan) threads that are coated in a PVC layer. Weaving sizes range from 6 by 6 to 12 by 12. Surface-applied additives known as impregnation give the material its elastic and irreversible properties. A typical service life of five to fifteen years.

Tent fabric is waterproof, oil-resistant, heat-and UV-resistant, and fireproof (it can be used at temperatures up to +70 o C). Simultaneously, it obstructs the passage of air, degrades partially, and releases toxic byproducts upon decay.

Tarpaulin

Canvas is another name for this awning material. It has been used since the turn of the century and is regarded as dependable due to its high density (mainly for sewing sails). It is created by combining flax and jute fibers and impregnating them with certain substances. Cotton, half-flax, and even synthetic materials are acceptable.

The awning fabric is hypoallergenic, hygroscopic, wear-resistant, "breathable," and ecologically friendly. It also adapts well to temperature fluctuations.

Its high density and resulting heavy weight are its main drawbacks.

Tarpaulin

It is created using a thermoplastic process with polyethylene. It melts at a temperature of only 80 o C, so it is not afraid of extreme heat. It is not afraid of chemical exposure or mechanical harm. The material is inexpensive, reusable, and devoid of rot. It also maintains its shape.

Shields from UV radiation, but with time, the sun causes it to crumble.

Oxford

This synthetic fiber is created by combining synthetic fibers such as polyester, nylon, or both. Its style of weaving sets it apart from others. It’s referred to as "basket weaving" or "rogozhka." Consequently, a shiny, smooth surface that is impervious to tearing is produced.

The awning’s color palette is determined by its intended use. Oxford with a density of 600 D is appropriate for awnings. Cheap, lightweight, durable, and simple to maintain. Nylon is a more dense and flexible material than polyester. Bleaching is not permitted.

Taffeta

The awning’s materials are nylon, polyester, and optional elastane. Threads are woven using a transverse technique. This awning’s material is stretchable and elastic. Lightweight, strong, thin, and simple to dye. Density average between 170T and 230T. The weight is unaffected by density; impregnation causes the awning to weigh more; varieties:

1. waterproof transparent (PU);
2. reflective, silver (Silver);
3. protection from chemicals, high temperatures (PVC);
4. moisture-retaining (PU milky).

Taffeta with reinforced threads, or "Rip Stop" markings, is available.

Cordura

Awning material that is blended from nylon and cotton threads and is impregnated with polyurethane and treated with DWR. Heat-resistant, virtually never fades, and able to tolerate temperatures as high as +85 o C. This awning fabric is waterproof and has a 5000 mm/s water resistance.

Does not hold up well in cold temperatures; at -25 °C, it becomes heavy and loses its ability to withstand sunlight.

Blended fabrics

The most common materials used in the production of awnings are mixed compositions. A purely natural or synthetic composition cannot fulfill all of the functions that an awning must fulfill. There’s Oxford, Cordura, and Rip Stop materials. composed of wool, cotton, and silk that have been blended with nylon or polyester. Because the reinforcing threads in awning fabric are several times stronger than the main thread, they provide increased resistance to tearing.

Popular manufacturers

Ferrari (France) is a notable producer of awning fabrics in Europe. Because the threads are taut throughout the entire PVC coating application process, the company was the first to produce fabrics using Precontraint technology.

Prominent businesses with in-demand products include:

• HeyTex (Germany);
• Dickont (France);
• Mehler (Germany).

Flexolux is a well-known brand of cast awnings with HeyTex technology in the Russian market. Products are manufactured by Papillons under the DLS trademark.

For outdoor applications such as canopies, boats, awnings, outdoor curtains, and car covers, performance and longevity depend greatly on the fabric selection. Every fabric has unique qualities designed to meet the needs of outdoor use, like UV, water, and mildew resistance.

Because of their durability and resistance to weather, materials like polyester, acrylic, and vinyl-coated fabrics are in demand. They guarantee that your outdoor coverings and structures can endure inclement weather without losing their aesthetic or functional value.

Take into account the particular requirements of your project when choosing your fabric. For example, because of the different exposure to the elements, a boat cover and an outdoor curtain require different fabrics. Making the ideal decision for your needs is made easier when you are aware of the qualities of each fabric.

In the end, choosing the correct fabric will increase the usefulness and longevity of your outdoor installations, guaranteeing their continued functionality and aesthetic appeal for many years to come.

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