How To Make Fabric Waterproof for Outdoor Use? [Step By Step]
Any untreated fabric can absorb moisture and damage the fibers when it’s subject to rain. To make any fabric suitable for outdoor use, you need to follow waterproofing methods.
Also, you can protect the fabric from mold and mildew by treating the fabric with effective waterproofing products.
While choosing the waterproofing methods, consider the technique that provides resistance against UV rays and various temperatures. Outdoor fabrics used in cushions, curtains, and several types of furniture need to be waterproofed.
Instead of opting for waterproofed fabrics, you can perform cost-effective waterproofing methods on your fabric to make them more durable.
To know more, read this article about the cost-effective methods that provide ideal waterproofing results for your outdoor fabric.
How To Make Fabric Waterproof for Outdoor Use?
Fabrics can be treated with proper waterproofing products to make them ideal for outdoor use.
I have listed out the four efficient waterproofing methods for the outdoor fabric so you can follow any of the feasible methods.
- Thompson waterseal spray method
- Scotchgard spray method
- Silicone caulk method
- Vinyl method
Let’s learn each waterproofing method in detail below.
1. How to Make Fabric Waterproof for Outdoor Use Using Thompson Waterseal Spray?
If you are looking for an easy and effective method to waterproof any fabric for outdoor use, follow the Thompson fabric seal method.
Thompson fabric seal provides complete waterproof protection for the fabric. This spray also provides UV protection caused by the sun.
This spray resists color fading and protects the fabric against moisture damage. With the help of this spray, you do not want to worry about spills and stains on the fabric.
Thompson fabric water seal method helps you to achieve the moisture-resistant properties of the fabric by maintaining breathability.
This fabric seal spray can be applied on pillows, canopies, cushions and other outdoor fabrics.
Required Items
- Thompson seal fabric seal spray
- Sheets/cardboard
Procedure [Step by Step]
1. Clean and dry the fabric
Before you begin waterproofing any cloth, make sure it is completely cleaned.
You can use a mild fabric cleaner if the cloth is extremely dirty or cannot be laundered.
Ensure that the fabric is dry after cleaning, as waterproof sprays and sealers will not adhere to the wet fabric.
2. Apply Thompson waterseal spray
To apply the spray to the cloth, hold the spray can 6 to 8 inches away from the surface and apply a thin layer to the fabric.
To get the ultimate waterproofed result, cover the entire fabric without leaving an inch exposed.
3. Dry it
Allow up to 4 hours for the spray to dry thoroughly on the fabric.
4. Apply second coat
Now, apply the Thompson waterseal on the fabric as a second layer to make it extra waterproof on the seams.
5. Dry it again
Let the fabric gets dry for another 4 hours. The waterproofed fabric is ready for use now.
Precautions
Because these spray-on sealers are humidity-sensitive, it’s best to waterproof your cloth on a dry/windless day.
In addition, if it is windy outside, your fabric may settle with dust.
When working with spray-on sealers, wear the appropriate safety equipment, such as safety goggles and gloves.
Time
The preparation and the application process take a minimum time of 20 minutes, and it also depends on the size of the fabric. And the overall drying process takes up to 8 hours.
The total processing time is around 9 hours.
Cost
Approximate cost for the required items:
- Thompson fabric seal spray – $ 23
The overall cost for this method will be around $23.
| Photo | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
 | Thompson's Waterseal No Scent Fabric Protector 11.5 oz. Spray6 | Check Price On Amazon |
2. How to Make Fabric Waterproof for Outdoors Using Scotchgard Fabric Spray?
If you are looking for impeccable waterproofing results for your outdoor fabric, prefer this method since the Scotchgard fabric spray works well on all types of fabrics.
Silicone, petroleum, and propane are among the chemical constituents in the spray, which can be used on tents, canvas, outerwear, patio furniture, and boats.
Scotchgard is an environmentally friendly spray since it does not include chlorofluorocarbons, which are known to deplete the ozone layer. It can also be used on everyday clothes and shoes.
This fabric protector spray can prevent moisture, grime, and spills from soaking into the fabric.
Because it keeps moisture from the setting, the spray can give your outdoor fabric a new look. It also protects your fabric from water and oil-based stains, as well as mold and mildew.
This Scotchgard fabric spray method will help to extend the life of your fabric by protecting against wear and tear.
Required Items
- Scotchgard fabric protector spray
- Sheets/paper
Procedure [Step by Step]
1. Prepare the workspace
Prepare the workstation by laying sheets on the floor. Make sure the fabric is free of dirt and dust at all times.
Do a patch test on the fabric because certain fabrics may change color after being sprayed.
2. Apply Scotchgard fabric spray
Spray the entire outdoor fabric with Scotchgard fabric protector.
While waterproofing, keep the spray 6 inches away from the fabric and do not go excessive with the coating.
Allow the fabric to dry for 16-20 minutes. After that, apply a second coat of fabric protector spray to the fabric.
3. Dry it
Let the outdoor fabric gets dry for 1-2 hours.
Once it is completely dry, the spray turns out odorless, and you can do a waterproof test on your fancy fabric.
Precautions
Always prefer outdoor space to perform this waterproofing method since the fabric spray has a strong odor.
Although the fabric spray is nontoxic, keep the spray out of children’s reach.
Take necessary precautions such as wearing masks, gloves while performing waterproofing methods.
Time
While the application process takes a minimum time of 15-20 minutes, the overall drying process can take up to 2 hours.
The total processing time is around 3 hours.
Cost
Approximate cost for the required material:
The overall cost for this method will be around $10.
| Photo | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
 | Scotchgard Fabric Water Shield, 13.5 Ounces, Repels Water, Ideal for Couches, Pillows, Furniture, Shoes and More, Long Lasting Protection | Check Price On Amazon |
3. Silicone Caulk Method to Waterproof Fabric for Outdoor Use
Silicone sealant is an excellent adhesive that provides resistance against chemicals, moisture and harsh weather. It can also withstand elasticity and stability in high and low temperatures.
Silicone sealant can seal the surface by completely blocking the moisture from the exterior, and it also provides mold and mildew resistance.
Also, silicone applied on fabric does not cause the color to bleed or fade. It also provides a smooth finish on the fabric without any distortion and peels on it.
If you are looking for a cost-effective method to waterproof your outdoor fabric, this is the ideal technique you should follow.
Required Items
Procedure [Step by Step]
1. Clean the fabric
To begin, remove the dirt, dust and old caulk if there is any present on the fabric.
You can use rubbing alcohol to clean the dirt from the fabric, and the surface should be smooth enough to proceed with coating.
2. Mask using tapes
Use strips of tape to mask the surface to seal the edges; so the caulk does not pass through the fabric.
3. Apply silicone caulk
Then apply the caulk all over the fabric without leaving an inch.
Take a damp cloth and smooth the fabric surface to bind the silicone caulk to the outdoor fabric.
4. Remove tapes
Now, remove the tape carefully and allow the caulk to dry completely.
Allow the fabric to dry for 25-30 minutes.
Time
While the application process takes a minimum time of 15-20 minutes, the overall drying process can take up to 30 minutes.
The total processing time is around 60 minutes.
Cost
Below is the approximate cost for the required material.
- Silicone caulk – $55
- Rubbing alcohol – $2
- Blue painter’s tape – $8
The overall cost for this method will be around $65.
4. How to Make Fabric Waterproof for Outdoor Use Using Vinyl?
If you are looking for a time-efficient method to waterproof your fabric, this method is for you.
Vinyl withstands extended water exposure and vapor and acts as an excellent waterproofing product. You can expose the vinyl to water for days without causing any damage.
Vinyl is tough, durable and acts as outstanding water resistance. Also, it seals the surface and forms an extra protection layer against water.
Also, vinyl provides wear and tear resistance for your outdoor fabric. The vinyl applied to the fabric does not change its appearance.
Required Items
Procedure [Step by Step]
1. Clean and dry the fabric
Before you begin waterproofing any cloth, make sure it is completely cleaned.
You can use a mild fabric cleaner if the cloth is extremely dirty or cannot be laundered.
Ensure that the fabric is dry after cleaning, as waterproof sprays and sealers will not adhere to the wet fabric.
2. Prepare the vinyl
Check to see if the fabric is clean and free of wrinkles.
3. Cut the Vinyl
Cut the vinyl using a scissor to fit your chosen pattern. Remove the vinyl’s paper backing by peeling it away.
It has both a sticky side and a smooth side to the vinyl. You can place the sticky side of the fabric.
4. Iron the fabric
Remove the paper backing from the vinyl and place the shiny side of the paper on top of it. While ironing the vinyl onto the fabric, the backing paper protects it.
To get the vinyl to stick, iron on the backing paper. Set the iron to a medium setting and run over the fabric. Do not leave the iron in one place for too long to get a smooth finish.
5. Remove the paper
Remove the paper and now the vinyl has melted onto the fabric due to the heat of the iron.
Vinyl-coated perfect waterproofed fabric is now ready for use.
Precautions
Do not leave the iron on the same spot for a long period and do not use the steam option to achieve the seamless waterproofed fabric.
Time
The entire waterproofing process takes up to a minimum time of 30-45 minutes.
The total processing time is around 45 minutes.
Cost
Below is the approximate cost for the required material.
- Vinyl paper – $15
- Iron – $50
The overall cost for this method will be around $65.
Final Words:
By treating your fabrics with any of the above waterproofing methods, you can make them suitable for all outdoor purposes.
The above-mentioned waterproofing methods can work on any fabric irrespective of the material, so you can choose the feasible technique to achieve the desired result.
Waterproofing the fabric is essential to maintain its fabric and extend its life. Also, you do not want to worry about spills and stains anymore.
The maintenance of the waterproofed fabric is effortless, and you will enjoy the final result by spending a few bucks on waterproofing products.
