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Care and Maintenance Guide Seam Leakage & Condensation

No matter the type or quality of marine fabric, every cover still has to be stitched together. At Amtrim, we use the best UV-resistant, marine-grade threads and the smallest possible needles to create strong, double-stitched seams. This helps minimise water ingress, but no stitched seam can ever be 100% waterproof.

Understanding Seam Leakage

Wherever a seam is sewn, tiny holes are made by the needle. While our anti-wick polyester thread is designed to swell when wet and seal these holes, some water penetration can still occur, especially when your cover is new. This is not a manufacturing fault; it’s a natural characteristic of all stitched marine covers.

How to Reduce Seam Leakage

  1. Initial Wetting – (Optional) – Once your new cover is fitted, hose it down thoroughly, allow it to dry, and repeat 5–6 times. This helps the thread swell and settle into place.
  2. Natural Sealing – A few rainfalls will usually complete the thread-swelling process.
  3. Hands Off When Wet – Avoid touching the fabric when it’s wet, as this can disturb the fibres and increase the chance of leaks.
  4. Extra Protection – If leakage persists after 5–6 rainfalls, apply a couple of light coats of Ultramar Canvas Protector to the seams.
  5. Frame Position – Always ensure the framework tubes are aligned on the correct side of the seams.

Good to Know

  • Do not seal seams on a brand new cover,  this can interfere with the natural thread-swelling process.
  • Avoid prolonged contact between the cover and sharp or abrasive objects, which can damage waterproofing.
  • Never overstretch your cover, excessive tension can cause seams to open or tear.

Condensation – What to Expect

In certain conditions, such as cold weather combined with high humidity, you may notice moisture forming on the inside of your canopy or enclosure. This is condensation , caused by trapped water vapour from sources like body heat, damp clothing, or wet carpets. It is not leakage through the fabric.

Reducing Condensation

  • Increase ventilation by opening windows, doors, or panels where possible.
  • Allow air to circulate to remove moisture from inside the enclosure.
  • Avoid touching the fabric walls when condensation is present, as this can transfer moisture.

Some condensation is normal with marine fabrics and should not be considered a defect.

Summary

  • Initial seam leakage is a natural occurrence in all stitched marine covers — it will seal over time.
  • Condensation is caused by trapped moisture, not fabric failure.
  • Following these care steps will help extend the life and performance of your cover.