Keep Your Marine Canvas Looking Like New

Tips and tricks to maintain your boat’s top and enclosures

Published: Friday, May 14, 2021

The real key to canvas longevity is, like all things in life: maintenance. Environmental residue will hold moisture on the surface, which will eventually cause mildew, a boater’s worst nightmare. Taking a few extra minutes to care for your boat’s canvas, fasteners, and vinyl windows each time you come back to the dock will pay off in the long run by keeping your enclosure mildew-free and easy to use for years to come.

Canvas

Keep your canvas clean of dust, dirt, and environmental residue on a regular basis. Top fabrics should also be cleaned of any dirt buildup at regular intervals.

Apply a mild, lukewarm soap solution, such as a liquid dishwashing soap, with a soft brush or sponge.
As tempting as it may seem, don’t put your canvas in the washing machine or take it to a dry cleaner.

Zippers and Fasteners

Lubricate zippers using a clear silicone spray. To coat, spray silicone onto the zipper and work the zipper back and forth.
Lubricate fasteners periodically using a clear silicone spray to keep corrosion to a minimum.
Replace any fasteners that are missing or show signs of corrosion.

Vinyl Window Materials

Start the cleaning process by first rinsing glass with clear water to remove any dust or dirt particles. This should be done on a frequent basis to keep environmental agents off your glass or saltwater, if you travel beyond the Lakes.
Then, using a soft, non-abrasive cloth, wash curtains inside and out with a mild soap and water mixture.
Avoid using detergents or other chemicals on vinyl glass as they will break down the protectors in the vinyl.
Rinse completely with cool water.
Polish glass inside and out with a manufacturer-recommended product.
You can remove some scratches from your glass by using a product such as Novus® Plastic Polish.
After thoroughly cleaning your vinyl windows, make sure they’re completely dry before storing them flat with paper or cloth between the panels.
When storing vinyl panels, avoid folding them!

If you have additional questions about marine canvas maintenance or would like to replace your boat’s top, canvas, cover, or enclosure, visit www.greatlakesboattop.com or call 877-867-7861 today!