How to Waterproof the Canvas in a Canvasback Kayak

Canvas is a heavy-duty fabric used in making tents, sails and other items where high strength is required. A canvasback kayak is a sturdy, lightweight, one-man boat made of wood and canvas. The canvas must be waterproof to keep the kayak afloat. There are several methods to waterproof canvas, but the one best-suited to a kayak is a chemical spray application.

Things You'll Need

  • Two saw horses
  • 2-gallon garden sprayer
  • Waterproofing liquid chemical
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Instructions

    • 1

      Spread the saw horses approximately 6 feet apart. Place the kayak, top-side down, on the saw horses. Ensure the area is well-ventilated.

    • 2

      Pour the liquid waterproofing chemical into the 2-gallon sprayer, and secure the top lid. Using the pump on the garden sprayer, pump air into the sprayer until it's difficult to push down. Secure the pump.

    • 3

      Spray the chemical on the bottom of the kayak in smooth streaks. Ensure the spray nozzle is producing an even spray. Repeat until the entire bottom of the kayak is coated. Allow to dry for 24 hours.

    • 4

      Turn the kayak over, so the bottom rests on the saw horses. Spray the chemical on the top and sides of the kayak, in smooth streaks. Ensure the spray nozzle is producing an even spray. Repeat until the entire top and sides of the kayak are coated. Allow to dry for 24 hours.