What is a waterproof material and why is it ideal for your outdoor furniture?

Being outdoors, garden furniture is exposed to inclement weather, including rain, so it’s important that before you buy outdoor furniture you make sure it is waterproof or water repellent. That’s why it’s important that before you buy outdoor furniture you make sure that it is waterproof or water-repellent. But do you know what is waterproof and which materials are waterproof?

Before we get into the subject, it should be noted that when waterproof materials are not used for garden furniture, they can become damaged over time. Depending on the type of material, the furniture is susceptible to rust, swelling, loss of properties and mould.

On the other hand, when we have, for example, waterproof outdoor mats, we can enjoy them for a long time without them losing their durability, quality and aesthetics.

Therefore, it is important to be clear about what a waterproof material is, so that you can take it into account when buying your outdoor furniture. In this post, we clarify this concept and talk about which are the most used waterproof materials.

What is a waterproof material?

First of all, let’s look at what waterproof means. A waterproof material is a material that completely prevents water or any other liquid from passing through its structure. This means that waterproof materials and fabrics do not allow liquids to pass through or seep through.

In fact, waterproof materials create a protective barrier to prevent water seepage, whatever the amount, making them ideal for environments that are exposed to prolonged exposure to rain.

Examples of waterproof materials used for furniture are plastics such as PVC or polyethylene, glass or ceramics, among others.

And what is a water-repellent material?

We already know what waterproofing is, but there is another concept that is often confused with it and that does not mean exactly the same thing: water-repellent material.

But what is water-repellent? It is a material that repels water on the surface, without being completely waterproof. A hydrophobic material does not completely block the passage of water, but is designed so that the liquid forms droplets and runs off, preventing it from being absorbed. This is usually achieved by special treatments or coatings that alter the surface of the material, creating a water-resistant barrier.

In this way, a water-repellent material or fabric is not suitable for permanent exposure to water, but is perfectly suitable for use in outdoor furniture, as it can withstand occasional rainfall without any problem.

Examples of water-repellent materials are coated polyester fabrics, treated wood or synthetic rattan, among others.

Let’s talk about textiles, what is a waterproof outdoor fabric?

When we refer to the fabrics used in outdoor furniture, most of the time we talk about waterproof fabrics, but in reality they are usually water repellent fabrics.

In fact, a water-repellent fabric is more suitable for garden furniture than a completely waterproof one. This is because, to be completely waterproof, the fabrics would have to block the passage of water completely, preventing breathability and making the fabric more uncomfortable.

As a result, most outdoor fabric is actually water repellent and not fully waterproof, although these terms are often used interchangeably in the trade.

All in all, water repellent outdoor fabrics are perfect for keeping your outdoor furniture in good condition. In the event that you do find a fully waterproof fabric, it is nowadays common for it to use some kind of advanced technology that strikes a balance between waterproofing and breathability.

What determines that a water repellent outdoor fabric is water repellent?

Water repellent fabrics are generally water repellent due to a combination of factors in their design and manufacture, including the following:

• Base material: Synthetic fibres such as polyester and nylon are common in outdoor decking fabrics because they are less absorbent than natural fibres such as cotton.
• Fabric: The denser the fabric, the smaller the space between its threads and therefore the more difficult it is for water to pass through. Denser fabrics, e.g. taffeta, help to keep water on the surface without it seeping through.
• Water-repellent treatment: Another of the most important factors in waterproof fabrics for terraces is the water-repellent treatment applied to them. Thanks to this treatment, a water-repellent surface is created on the fabric, preserving its breathability.

Benefits of using waterproof outdoor fabrics

Using a waterproof or water repellent outdoor fabric for your outdoor furniture will bring you numerous benefits, such as:

• Protection against moisture and water: Water repellent outdoor fabrics keep furniture protected from water absorption, preventing it from being damaged by rain or humidity and preventing the formation of mould and mildew.
• Durability and resistance: Similarly, waterproof outdoor fabrics are designed to withstand outdoor conditions without wearing out, which increases their lifespan.
• Easy maintenance: These fabrics prevent water and stains from penetrating inside, making it easier to clean outdoor cushions, sun loungers, cushions and any other furniture made of these materials.
• Increased comfort: Waterproof fabric for outdoor cushions allows them to dry quickly after getting wet, preventing water from accumulating inside and preventing you from sitting on a wet surface.
• UV resistance: Many of the waterproof decking fabrics also have UV resistant treatments, preventing them from fading.
• Long-term savings: Due to its greater strength and durability, an outdoor waterproof fabric is less expensive in the long run, as it will last for years and you won’t have to change it as often.

Most commonly used waterproof outdoor fabrics

Finally, let’s take a look at what types of waterproof or water-repellent outdoor fabrics are most commonly used for outdoor furniture.

Is polyester waterproof?

Polyester itself is not waterproof, but it is naturally water-repellent compared to natural fibres such as cotton. In addition, when coated with PVC it becomes a very water resistant material, capable of protecting the furniture from rain and environmental wear and tear.

Is nylon waterproof?

Like polyester, nylon in its natural state is not completely waterproof, although it does repel water due to its synthetic structure, which is less absorbent than natural fibres. However, it is also coated with PVC or other materials to make it more waterproof.

Other waterproof outdoor fabrics

• Textilene: This damp-proof fabric is made from a combination of polyester fibres coated with PVC, resulting in a waterproof and highly durable material that is very popular for garden furniture.
• PVC: This material is a waterproof option that is mainly used in furniture covers or fabric coverings, as well as in areas that require complete and intense protection.
• Polypropylene: This is a water-resistant material that can be made waterproof with the right treatment. Even without additional treatment, it works well on outdoor furniture that is not permanently exposed to water.

Do you have doubts about which type of waterproof or water-repellent material you should choose for your garden furniture? Don’t worry, we at Home Zentrum are here to help you. Contact us and we will advise you on what you need.