How To Waterproof Duck Canvas? [Process, Time & Cost]
Do you want to waterproof your duck canvas? Then read this post to know the simple and effective methods to waterproof your duck canvas on your own.
Though the duck canvas is durable and water-resistant, the untreated canvas will not be completely waterproof. So you should always ensure your duck canvas is treated through any of the proper waterproofing techniques.
Also, failing to waterproof your duck canvas can cause mildew on your fabric. By following the waterproofing methods, you can not only save time but also increase the durability of your duck canvas.
What Happens When Duck Canvas Gets Wet?
Duck canvas, also known as duck cloth, is made of plain-woven cotton fabric. It is usually woven with two yarns together in the warp and the single yarn in the weft.
Duck canvas is a durable material usually softer than regular canvas and densely woven to act as waterproof.
If your duck canvas gets wet, it causes the cotton to bulge and closes the weave thread that helps block the moisture from getting through it. If your duck canvas is subjected to more precipitation, it makes the material heavy and forms mold in your fabric.
But not to worry, I have three simple techniques which require minimal effort and are also cost-effective.
- Traditional wax Method
- Quick wax method
- Silicone & Mineral spirits Method
How To Waterproof Duck Canvas Using Traditional Wax?
Waterproofing your duck canvas using the wax method is one of the easiest methods to achieve the desired result. Since wax is extremely water-resistant, this method will work like a charm for your duck canvas.
If you treat your duck canvas with a good wax coating, it repels the water efficiently. So this method is preferred for military rucksacks, tents, outdoor gear and sails.
Also, Linseed oil extracted from the flax plants helps blend the wax in your duck canvas by giving the custom finish look to your fabric.
In addition, the waxed canvas can make your cleaning process a lot easier. You can wash your duck canvas using mild soap in cold water. But avoid using harsh detergents since that will scrape away the wax coatings by destroying the water-repelling characteristics.
Required Material:
- Wax (you can use either beeswax or paraffin wax)
- Pots
- Water
- Turpentine
- Linseed oil
- Containers (for storage)
- Hairdryer
Procedure:
For this method, you need to use 2:1:1 ratio for the beeswax, linseed oil, and turpentine.
- Step 1: Cut the beeswax into chunks.
- Step 2: Add water to the pot and bring the water to a boil on high heat.
- Step 3: Now, put the wax chunks in the second pot and keep it over the first pot using the double boiler method.
- Step 4: Stir the wax gently until the wax starts melting.
- Step 5: Once the wax gets entirely melted, reduce the heat to low.
- Step 6: Now, add the linseed oil and mix it well.
- Step 7: Turn off the heat and add an equal amount of turpentine into the melted wax.
- Step 8: Before it gets solidified, pour the mixture into the containers. Let it cool down overnight to become firm.
- Step 9: Once the wax becomes rigid, you can take a brush and rub the wax; spread it all over your duck canvas.
- Step 10: Make sure you brush over all the nooks and corners of the canvas to get the perfect waterproofed fabric.
- Step 11: Using a hairdryer, you can blend the wax in the fabric quickly.
- Step 12: Set it to dry for 8-10 hours, then your waterproofed canvas is ready to use.
Precautions:
I suggest you do this method in open spaces in lawns or gardens, not in closed rooms. Choose a ventilated place because this process involves flammable substances. Also, not to mention, keep the raw materials out of children’s reach.
Time:
The whole melting process can take up to 30 minutes. It also depends on the quantity of wax you are using. And the setting to dry process takes up to 8-10 hours.
Total processing time: 10-12 hours
Cost:
You can find the approximate cost for the required material here, and you can also buy them online through Amazon.
- Line seed oil cost: $15
- 8-ounce Turpentine oil cost: $24
- 1 lb beeswax cost: $24
The overall cost for this method will be around $63.
How To Waterproof Duck Canvas Using Quick Wax?
If you are the person who wants to swiftly waterproof your duck canvas without rushing to stores to buy the list of ingredients, I have a quick wax method for you.
This technique is a real time saver and requires only one ingredient, Otter Wax – a heavy fabric wax composed of high-quality beeswax and natural oils.
If you are concerned about paraffin wax and petroleum-based ingredients, then this method is for you. Because otter wax contains only natural products.
This method is an excellent way to waterproof the untreated fabrics and is used in hats, tents, bags and jackets. Otter wax can penetrate the fabric by rubbing against hot duck canvas and creating a flawless wax look.
Since this wax is made up of all-natural ingredients, it blends easily with natural fibers (cotton).
Required Material:
Procedure:
- Step 1: Place the duck canvas on the wood or the bench lined with sheets. You can get the otter wax which comes in a bar.
- Step 2: Blow hot air on your duck canvas fabric using a hairdryer.
- Step 3: Now, thoroughly rub the otter wax on your fabric.
- Step 4: Once you are done with the rubbing, set the fabric to dry for a couple of days.
- Step 5: You can also use regular wax for the first coating on the fabric and apply the otter wax as the second layer to get a nice finished look.
Precautions:
Follow this method in open space to avoid the waxy smell indoors. Also, you can set the fabric to dry in your garage to get rid of strong odor.
Time:
The preparation and application process can take up to 1 hour, and it also depends on the size of the duck canvas. And the drying process will take 24-72 hours before use.
Total processing time: 3 days
Cost:
Otter wax bar costs around $14
The overall cost for this method will be around $14.
How To Waterproof Duck Canvas Using Silicone & Mineral Spirits?
Apart from the wax method, I have a simple DIY way; to waterproof your duck canvas using silicone and mineral spirits.
This method is hassle-free, especially if you are new to waterproofing. Since silicone has a strong adhesive bond, it is used in various waterproofing processes. Silicone provides more durability by staying waterproof for long years up to decades.
Also, durability depends on several factors- such as temperature and exposure to the sun.
Besides that silicone, has a distinct nature of retaining porousness and breathable qualities of the fabric even though it is waterproofed. Also, it provides flexibility and is resistant to weather conditions and chemical substances with a low toxicity ratio.
By mixing with mineral spirits, the silicone gets thinned and helps in quick blending. Thus make this method with proven results.
Required Material:
- 100% silicone
- Mineral spirits
- Paint Brush or roller
- Container
| Photo | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
 | GE Advanced Silicone Window & Door Sealant Clear, 10.1 oz, 1, Cartridge | Check Price On Amazon |
 | Sunnyside Paint Thinner, Cleaner and Degreaser, Quart, 70132 | Check Price On Amazon |
Procedure:
For 1 quart of mineral spirits, you need half a tube of 100 % silicon tube.
- Step 1: Add the mineral spirits and 100 % silicone (follow 1:1 ratio) to the container.
- Step 2: Close the container lid and shake it well until it gets mixed. You can see the mixture gets a little runny.
- Step 3: Once the mixture is ready, evenly coat the duck canvas with the spirit mixture using the paintbrush or roller.
- Step 4: Make sure you cover the entire duck canvas with the prepared silicon mixture without leaving an inch.
- Step 5: Once your duck canvas is fully coated, leave it to dry for a few days.
- Step 6: You will get a super coated waterproof duck canvas ready for use in a couple of days.
Precautions:
It’s always better to choose an open space for any waterproofing technique. Even though the raw materials are not highly flammable in this method, you don’t want to mess up your place with chemical ingredients.
Time:
While the waterproofing method needs 1 hour, the drying process takes up to 2 days.
Total processing time: 2 days
Cost:
You can find the approximate cost for the required material here, and you can also buy them online through Amazon.
- Mineral Spirits costs around $15
- 100% Silicone tube costs around $12
The overall cost for this method will be around $30.
Final Words
The products we use in day to day life including, shoes, handbags, aprons, sneakers, backpacks and much more, are made of canvas. Duck canvas is preferred for workwear due to its wind-blocking nature and is not easily prone to tearing and snagging.
Also, waterproofing helps in making the fabric extra durable. And you can achieve the desired result by following the ideal waterproofing methods.
