Sunbrella treatment

[pzmaria]

So good to be back on the boat again. Got my Catalina 36 and sailed her to Mexico. While staying in Florida before making a passage I've heard from some people in the marina that they were waterproofing their sunbrella dodgers with mineral oil. Anyone has done that? How is it done? Any input is greatly appreciated as always.

pzmaria

[goboatingnow]

I use fabsil gold. I find it excellent

[Networker]

I’ve read the only thing Sunbrella recommends for waterproofing is “303 Fabric Guard”

[goboatingnow]

Originally Posted by Networker

I’ve read the only thing Sunbrella recommends for waterproofing is “303 Fabric Guard”

Or Tekativ brand

[SailFastTri]

Originally Posted by Networker

I’ve read the only thing Sunbrella recommends for waterproofing is “303 Fabric Guard”

Me too. Been a 303 Fabric Guard user for many years.
I’d skip the mineral oil. Never tried it, and wouldn’t, but oil would likely attract and hold dirt. I would expect it to stain also.

[tamicatana]

Glen Raven Mills, maker of Sunbrella, says:

https://cdn.glenraven.net/sb2016/pdf...rics-en-us.pdf

[Rumrace]

303 is the real deal. Canadian tire had some tent waterproofing a friend bought and sprayed his canvas. It was like glue. His hair stuck to it. Was down right funny.
His crew rebelled and he had a devil of a time scrubbing it off.
303 my friend

[boatpoker]

Originally Posted by pzmaria

So good to be back on the boat again. Got my Catalina 36 and sailed her to Mexico. While staying in Florida before making a passage I've heard from some people in the marina that they were waterproofing their sunbrella dodgers with mineral oil. Anyone has done that? How is it done? Any input is greatly appreciated as always.

pzmaria

I'm interested in your question. If we both wait long enough perhaps someone will actually respond to it ...

[rslifkin]

I agree that mineral oil seems like a bad idea. I'd expect a sticky, dirt-covered mess from it.

[michaeld]

We have been using Starbrite Waterproofing with good success on our Sunbrella. I've watched a YouTube DIY concoction made from silicone sealant diluted/thinned with mineral spirits that looks intriguing. Both end up costing about the same though. I normally apply it with a sprayer when there is no or very little wind. I essentially soak the Sunbrella. A second application is normally warranted.

[B25Matt]

Thompson desk sealer. Works great.

[Wolfe10]

From experience, can tell you that the petroleum-based sealers leave a real mess on the deck.


303 Aerospace is the recommended product.

[goboatingnow]

Fabsil gold is the best product on the market , I’ve used it in preference to many others.