Leaking Canvass

Hamdog

Well not actually the canvass and not really the zippers but where the zippers are attached to the boat. Any clues on how to stop this?

Black_Diamond

Is it leaking from the track (the u channel on the arch)?  Or through the fabric that has the zipper on it?

Hamdog

I think the U channel on the arch.

Hamdog

But could be the fabric where the zipper is attached. I know it is not the actual canvass.

Lifes Good

On top of bimini the canvas should have a flap with a pull code to tighten down the flap over the zipper. Check to be sure the flap is covering zipper. If so, then its the track. You may need to pull the track clean old caulking and reset with 5400.

Had to do that to mine several years back.

LaRea

For leaking seams and zippers, I've had good luck with Starbrite spray waterproofing treatment. If it's the channel, you can try running a bead of sealer (temporary at best), but you might need to remove and reseal as Life's Good mentioned.  

Hamdog

Thanks for the tips. I will see what I can do next weekend.

Capt Ron

Waterproofing doesn't always stop seams from leaking. I use tent seam sealer to do the job. Just Google it.

Hamdog

I really believe it is leaking from the U channel on the arch. Capt Ron suggests a tent seam sealer. I googled it. Lots of different kinds. Would you suggest a spray on application or a tube application?

Thanks.

Black_Diamond

Tube.  Apply where needed. 

Michael T

Tube, fills the needle holes from manufacture which widen over time. MT

tkrfxr

I used this when I replaced the zippers...from Sailrite.com

http://www.sailrite.com/Iosso-Seam-Sealer-4oz

tkrfxr

The U-channel can have leaks in the seal which may need to be re-selaed...for this job I used outdoor silicone...I found two spots where the sealant had disappeared, and needed touch-up....the leaks are gone...

Thell

Do you have to take the U-channel off or do you add sealant on top of the U-channel and arc?

Black_Diamond

Don't take off the u channel, just caulk the seam. [edit]  Pulling the channel off is a pita and you can pull the arch paint off too, been there.  Let alone the trouble of getting the screws out and back in again as the holes can strip out easy.  I had to redrill several.  just clean the joint on the arch/uchannel well to remove any wax and caulk.

Thell

Ok, Thank you. :-)