The Care & Maintenance of Canvas Canopies

Canvas is indisputably the best material for your trailer canopy and other protective camping coverings. Unlike cheaper substitutes, it's long-lasting, naturally waterproof and doesn't degrade--but it does need a little TLC if you want it to stay in tip-top condition.

This is true of all canvas, of course, but it's particularly true for a canvas trailer canopy. Unlike tents and awnings, most trailer canopies will be sat out in your drive exposed to the elements 24/7, all year round. So what can you do to help yours keep everything inside your trailer safe and dry?

Sweep down the top once a week or so

Nobody expects you to do any serious maintenance on a weekly basis, but it's a good idea to give the top of your trailer a bit of a brush about that often, especially in the autumn. If you don't let fallen leaves, rainwater and other debris sit for long, they won't cause any issues you'll have more trouble fixing!

Keep on top of mould and mildew

While you're doing that, have a quick look to see if you can spot any mould or mildew anywhere on the canopy. If you do, it's important to deal with it right away! Make a solution from water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and spritz it liberally all over the affected area. Scrub the mould and mildew away with a sponge or washcloth and then rinse well with clean water before drying thoroughly using an old towel.

Deal with holes and splits ASAP

You need your canopy to remain as watertight and weatherproof as possible, but there's always a chance that you'll get a hole or rip a seam. If you spot that something like that has occurred, the good news is that it's easy to fix! All you need is a roll of taffeta tent repair tape, a tube of canvas seam sealer, a pair of scissors and about 20 minutes. Tape the rip or hole together (you might want to put a few stitches in it first to hold it in place, but this isn't essential) and seal the edges of the tape with seam sealer--and you're done!

With a little care, a good canvas canopy will outlast your trailer--so accept no substitutions! Canvas isn't difficult to care for, and its benefits far outweigh its few drawbacks. Speak with your local outdoor shop today and ask them what they have in stock.


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