Having a patio or backyard space can provide wonderful opportunities for relaxation and fun times outdoors. However, it takes some work to keep these spaces looking great. One of the keys is covering and protecting your outdoor furniture when not in use. Using covers and treating them with waterproofing sprays is a smart strategy. But with so many products on the market, how do you determine what is truly the best waterproof spray for outdoor furniture covers?
Page Contents
- 1 Why Do You Need a Waterproof Spray for Outdoor Furniture Covers?
- 2 How Do Waterproof Sprays Work?
- 3 How to Choose the Best Waterproof Spray
- 4 6 Best Waterproofing Sprays for Outdoor Furniture Covers
- 5 How to Apply Waterproof Spray
- 6 Frequently Asked Questions
- 6.1 How often should I apply waterproof spray to outdoor furniture covers?
- 6.2 How do I get the best coverage when spraying?
- 6.3 Can I use a waterproofing spray on cushions and pillows? Most are not suitable for direct application to soft cushioning materials. Instead, use them to treat cushion covers only. Should I reapply after washing covers?
- 6.4 Can I get waterproof sprays in different scents?
- 7 Conclusion
Why Do You Need a Waterproof Spray for Outdoor Furniture Covers?
Outdoor furniture covers provide a barrier against dirt, debris, sun exposure, and other elements. But without waterproofing, rain and snow can still soak through the fabric and cause damage. A good waterproofing spray adds an extra layer of protection.
When water seeps through a cover onto the furniture, it can lead to:
- Corrosion and rust on metal frames
- Warping, rotting, cracking, or swelling of wood
- Mold and mildew buildup
- Fading and premature wear of cushions and fabrics
A waterproofing spray prevents this by causing water to bead up and run off the cover, rather than soaking through. This keeps your outdoor furniture in better condition for longer.
How Do Waterproof Sprays Work?
Waterproofing sprays use chemicals that bond to the fibers in fabric. This chemically alters the surface tension so that when water lands on the fabric, it balls up and rolls off instead of being absorbed.
Most waterproofing sprays for outdoor furniture contain some type of fluoropolymer as the active water-repelling ingredient. Two common chemicals used are:
- Fluorocarbons – Repel water by forming a protective film on the surface of the fabric. They chemically bond to the fibers for durable effects.
- Silicones – Cause water to bead up and roll off the fabric while allowing air flow. However, they do not bond as tenaciously to fabric fibers.
The formulation also includes a propellant to dispense the product as a fine mist, plus binding agents and solvents.
How to Choose the Best Waterproof Spray
With all the products on the market, how can you determine which is the best waterproofing spray for your outdoor furniture covers? Here are key factors to consider:
1. Level of Water Repellency
Look for a spray that offers maximum beading of water. The higher the level of water repellency, the better the product will perform. Terms to look for are “extreme”, “ultimate”, or “advanced” water repellency.
2. Durability of Protection
Some waterproofing chemicals bond longer to fabric fibers while others wear off over time. Seek out sprays that provide durable, long-lasting protection. This means you don’t have to reapply as often.
3. Breathability
The spray should repel water but still allow air flow in and out of the fabric. This breathable quality prevents condensation and moisture buildup inside the cover.
4. UV Resistance
Sprays with UV blockers help prevent sun damage to fabric. This extends the life of your furniture covers.
5. Eco-Friendliness
Read the label to see if the product uses green chemistry with safer ingredients. Some waterproofers contain Perfluorinated Compounds (PFCs) that can be toxic and harmful if released into the environment. Look for “non-PFC” sprays.
6. Ease of Application
See if the product sprays on easily and dries fast without leaving behind a greasy residue. A water-based formula is best. Test first on an inconspicuous area.
7. Coverage
Check that the can holds enough liquid to adequately coat all your covers. A little goes a long way but you want to make sure the can is a suitable size for your needs.
8. Effectiveness on Specific Fabrics
Make sure the spray is designed to work well on the type of fabric your outdoor furniture covers are made from – whether polyester, vinyl, cotton, canvas, acrylic, or other materials.
9. Protection Against Mold and Mildew
Some sprays have added ingredients to prevent mold, mildew, and bacterial growth. This provides an extra level of protection for your covers.
10. Price and Value
Compare prices to find the best product that meets your needs at the most economical cost per use. A more expensive but longer-lasting spray may be the better value in the long run.
6 Best Waterproofing Sprays for Outdoor Furniture Covers
Here is a list of top-rated, recommended products to consider:
| Brand | Product | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Scotchgard | Heavy Duty Water Shield | – Fluoropolymer formula repels water – Lasts up to 5 washings – Contains UV blockers – Applies easily with no oily residue |
| 303 Products | Fabric Guard | – Repels oil and water – Provides UV protection – Helps prevent mold and mildew – Safe for polyester, canvas, cotton |
| Star brite | Premium Waterproofing | – Silicone-based spray – Allows breathability – Protects against UV rays – Repels liquid spills |
| Hydrobead | Water Repellent Spray | – Uses “Dry-Touch” chemistry – Allows fabric breathability – Provides durable water resistance – Easy push-button can |
| Pecard | Leather Water Shield | – Specifically designed for leather – Provides UV ray protection – Helps prevent growth of mildew – Keeps leather flexible and conditioned |
| Behr Premium | Waterproofing Sealer | – Acrylic-based formula – Suitable for canvas, cotton, polyester – Dries to transparent, non-sticky finish – Interior/exterior usage |
Scotchgard Heavy Duty Water Shield
Scotchgard Heavy Duty Water Shield is one of the top-performing and most trusted brands. It uses a fluoropolymer formula to deliver best-in-class repellency against rain, snow, sprinklers, and spills. Just one application provides 5 washings of protection. The spray dries clear without sticky residue and allows breathability. It blocks out the sun’s UV rays to prevent fading and damage. Overall, it provides maximum heavy duty water protection for your outdoor furniture covers.
303 Fabric Guard
303 Fabric Guard is a versatile all-surface protectant that repels both oil and water. The UV blockers help prevent sun damage. It’s designed to protect against mold and mildew growth. The formula is safe for use on outdoor fabrics like polyester, canvas, cotton, and more. It sprays on easily and driesfast.
Star Brite Premium Waterproofing
Star Brite Premium Waterproofing uses a silicone-based formula that causes water to bead up and roll off fabric while maintaining breathability. The UV inhibitors help protect against sun damage to prevent premature aging. It creates an invisible barrier that also repels food and liquid spills. Overall, this is a great value waterproofing spray for patio furniture covers and other outdoor fabrics.
Hydrobead Water Repellent Spray
Hydrobead Water Repellent Spray provides a high level of water resistance using an advanced “Dry-Touch” non-silicone formula. It allows fabric to remain breathable while causing water to bead up and roll off. Just a light application protects against rain, mist, dew, sprinklers, and more. The easy push-button can makes application a breeze. It won’t change the look or feel of fabrics and protects against UV rays as well.
Pecard Leather Water Shield
Pecard Leather Water Shield is specifically designed for waterproofing leather furniture covers. The UV inhibitors help prevent sun damage. It protects against growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria. This spray keeps leather conditioned, soft, and flexible while providing a high level of water repellency. It’s great for both finished and unfinished leathers.
Behr Premium Waterproofing Sealer
Behr Premium Waterproofing Sealer provides transparent, non-sticky protection using an acrylic-based formula. It works on cotton, polyester, canvas and more. This sealer is suitable for interior and exterior use on items like patio furniture covers, tarps, canopies, and textile home products. It dries quickly and provides long-term water resistance against the elements.
How to Apply Waterproof Spray
Proper application technique is key to getting the best performance from your waterproofing spray:
- Prep the surface – Clean cover with mild soap and water and let fully dry. Spot test on hidden area first.
- Find a well-ventilated outdoor location like a driveway or patio. Lay cover flat.
- Mask surrounding areas to protect from overspray.
- Shake can vigorously for 60 seconds before and during use.
- Hold can 10-12 inches above cover. Apply light, even coats using sweeping motions.
- Mist across entire surface of cover. Don’t oversaturate.
- Allow 30 minutes to dry between coats. Reapply a second coat for best protection.
- Allow to fully cure for 24-48 hours before handling and putting cover on furniture.
- Reapply as needed on high wear areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I apply waterproof spray to outdoor furniture covers?
Frequency depends on the durability of the product. Some heavy duty sprays last 2-3 months while others protect for up to a year with one application. Check the product description. Reapply whenever water no longer beads and rolls off the cover.
How do I get the best coverage when spraying?
Hold the can at the proper distance from the surface. Use smooth back-and-forth sweeping motions and spray light, even coats. Make sure to cover every square inch and don’t oversaturate any sections.