Is your fabric WATERPROOF or WEATHERPROOF?

Posted August 8, 2013 in Did you know?? News/Tips

Outdoor fabrics are water-resistant, and some are waterproof.  Either can beg the question…what’s the difference between the two?  To help shed some light on the issue

WATERPROOF:  In a nutshell, “waterproof” means no water in, no water out. To be entirely waterproof, the surface must be completely impervious to water, and provide a high level of sustained water protection during the harshest conditions.

WEATHERPROOF (aka water-resistant or water-repellent): A weatherproof fabric is coated with a finish that is resistant but not impervious to penetration by water. Water-resistant fabrics will often bead up rainwater, forming drops on the surface.  Water-resistant fabrics will provide protection from limited precipitation, but may not stand up to, huge heavy downpours.  Though water can saturate the fabric with harsh exposure, a water-resistant treatment will prevent moisture from seeping through the fabric.