Fabric waterproofing treatment is essential to any fabric that protects it from water damage and moisture-related issues. Fabric, a pivotal material for different commercial purposes, is porous and will absorb water, waterborne contaminants, and chemicals, which can cause significant and expensive structural damage over time. It can also lead to severe mould growth and other health risks to those who work or live near such fabric.

Waterproof fabrics come in various finishes and textures while possessing different practical qualities. With their durable properties and the variety of colours and styles we stock, waterproof materials are perfect for protecting against extreme weather conditions. They will maintain their protective qualities after use. While watching from water is the primary use for waterproof fabrics, we stock an extensive range of them, making them perfect for several projects.

Waterproof materials are generally obtained using chemical waterproofing treatments for fabric.

There are two processes used:

Coating technology, where the polymer is applied by direct layering and impregnation. The polymer is now usually in the form of a paste or a high-viscosity liquid. Such coatings are fragile – in the range of 10-100μm.

Laminating technology involves the formation of a laminating layer on the surfaces of the textile material. The membrane is fragile, so the final thickness of the layer remains in the range of 10-100μm.

Types of waterproof fabrics

There are several different waterproof fabric types. Waterproof materials are currently used in the three major textile areas (clothing, home and outdoor products and technical textiles). There are many possible applications, from rain garments to medical and military equipment. Regardless of the applications for which waterproofness is the determinant function, the complexity of the conditions during use requires the multicriterial design of the fabric structure and its testing to ensure a high number of functional characteristics such as vapour permeability, tensile strength, abrasion resistance, flexural strength (repeated cycles), resistance to low and high temperatures, resistance to light, chemical resistance and more. Waterproofness is measured as the hydrostatic pressure needed to penetrate the waterproof fabrics.

Waterproof fabrics also come in a wide range of weights and densities, including lightweight materials that are incredibly comfortable to wear and heavyweight fabrics with several protective uses. Such fabrics are used in agriculture, architecture and construction, medicine and healthcare, and various industries. Wheelchair cushions, bed stretchers, surgical garments, multilayer wound dressings, tree shelters, textile membranes for roofs, car covers, and protective clothing are just a small part of all the diverse applications of waterproof and water-repellent fabrics.

The properties of waterproof fabrics are very diverse. Some of our heavier-weight materials retain their shape exceptionally well due to their weight and thickness. At the same time, our lighter-weight range is breathable to wear while keeping the effects of the elements at bay. The vast range of finishes also means waterproof fabrics can feel soft and comfortable on the skin. Many of our waterproof materials are also fire retardant, which is practical and safe for many items.

Application and uses of Waterproof fabrics

Due to the variety of available waterproof fabrics, our range is suitable for several uses. Often ideal for use on bags and luggage due to its strength, it is also suitable for long-lasting and durable sportswear, work clothes and equestrian products. Waterproof fabric, cotton canvas, and other lightweight materials are perfect for outdoor furnishings, tents, tarpaulins, and outdoor garments due to their lightweight and breathable qualities. Suppose you need something thicker and more heavyweight. In that case, some of our higher-density waterproof fabrics, such as PVC and leatherette, are versatile and perfect for making indoor and outdoor products, including furniture and high-quality and aesthetically pleasing upholstery. PVC is also suitable for practical and visually pleasing clothing, including outdoor jackets for wet and windy conditions and long-lasting fashion items and costumes. Pet products are also prevalent for our waterproof fabrics due to their high strength.

When browsing our waterproof fabric range, you are bound to find something perfect for any project. The vast amount of textures and densities, along with the practical properties that waterproof fabrics have, give them an abundance of uses. With various styles, colours, weights and textures available, the list of possibilities for our waterproof materials is endless.