Waterproofing a gazebo canopy is easy when you have a waterproof spray. Clean the canopy before spraying treatment at a 45°angle. Spray two coats to get better results. Use the Gear Aid sealer to protect the seams. Let both treatments dry before putting the canopy back on the gazebo frame.
Has your gazebo canopy started to leak? Thinking about buying a new and better soft-top gazebo?
You don’t have to! Follow my step-by-step tutorials on how to waterproof gazebo canopy, and you are guaranteed to stay dry this season! See for yourself!
Lately, I’ve been really conscious about reducing waste and putting effort into repairing things on my own. I have learned that a little bit of creativity and effort goes a long way.
This prompted me to write a complete guide to waterproofing a gazebo canopy. You can now give your old but gold gazebo a new lease on life. Take a look!
Contents
Complete Guide: How To Waterproof Gazebo Canopy
Years have gone by, and your once water-resistant canopy is now leaking from the top and seams.
What to do? Here are your options:
- Use a waterproof spray on the gazebo fabric
- Seal the seams of the canopy with silicone
You can find in-depth tutorials for each method below. If none of the methods work for your situation, you can find the right replacement canopy by clicking here.
Waterproof Gazebo Fabric With Spray
What You Need
- Waterproof spray bottle
- Ladder
- Tarp
- Broom
- Garden hose or power washer
Steps
Here are the steps on how to waterproof your gazebo canopy with a waterproof spray:
- Pick A Sunny Day
Pick a sunny day for this job. You will have to wash off the canopy with a hose and let it dry in the sun. The waterproof spray will also dry quicker in warm weather conditions.
Make sure you are not working on a windy day, either. The wind will blow away the waterproof spray, which will result in an uneven application. - Take Off The Canopy
With the help of a ladder, undo the Velcro straps or snaps to remove the canopy from the gazebo frame.
If the canvas is covering the posts of the gazebo, unhook it first before proceeding to the top. The sides can be waterproofed, as well, to achieve full protection.
Take a look at the video tutorial below. - Clean The Canopy
Lay the tarp on the ground and spread the gazebo canopy on top of it. The tarp will protect the gazebo fabric from dirt and sharp stones.
Wash down the whole canopy using a hose or a power washer. Use a broom to scrub off any stubborn stains and wring out excess water from the canopy when you are done.
Flip the canopy to the other side and repeat the whole process again. - Leave The Canopy To Dry
Leave the canopy to dry in the sun for as many hours as needed. Flip the canvas halfway through the process to dry the other side, as well.
This is why it is important to work on a sunny day. If it is sunny enough, the canvas will dry within a couple of hours. No overnight drying! - Treat Any Rust (Optional)
While you are waiting for the canopy to dry, you can inspect the metal gazebo frame for rust.
If you notice any rust, sand it down with sandpaper and apply a light coat of the BlackShell rust inhibitor paint on the affected area. Let the inhibitor dry before putting the canopy back on the frame. - Apply The Waterproof Spray
First, protect yourself with a face mask and restrict children and pets from the work area.
Spray the gazebo fabric with the waterproof spray following the instructions provided on the spray can.
Shake the can, and start spraying at a 45°angle. Work in sections, starting from one corner and going to the other. Move constantly, so the treatment is spread lightly and evenly. Once you have covered the whole surface, you can start applying the second coat.
Let the treated side dry completely before working on the bottom side.
You can buy a waterproof spray on Amazon or at your local hardware store. - Put The Canopy Back On The Gazebo Frame
Once the canopy is completely dry, you can reattach it to the gazebo frame. Get your family members to help you out. Use a ladder to gain better access to the gazebo roof.
Congratulations! You have successfully waterproofed your gazebo canopy.
How To Install A Canopy Video Guide
Here’s a quick video tutorial on how to install a canopy:
Waterproof Gazebo Canopy Seams
What You Will Need
- Odorless mineral spirits
- Mixing container
- Brush
- Popsicle stick
- 100% clear silicone caulk
Steps
Meanwhile, here is how you can waterproof the gazebo canopy seams:
- Make You Own Seam Sealer
In a glass mixing container, add equal parts of 100% clear silicone caulk and odorless mineral spirits. Use a wooden Popsicle stick to mix both ingredients into a homogenous paste.
Or, you can also buy a pre-made seam sealer on Amazon.
- Apply Seam Sealer
With a small, hard bristle paintbrush, apply the seam sealer on the seams of the gazebo canopy. Do it as neatly as you can, so you won’t have to wipe up any drips. Leave the sealer to dry for a couple of hours, and you are done!
FAQ: Answered
Can Gazebos Be Used In Rain?
Only waterproof and water-resistant gazebos can be used in the rain. If the gazebo fabric doesn’t have a density of 190+ grams per square meter, it won’t handle heavier downpours, only light drizzles, and showers. Gazebo canopies that are made of lined polyester or are PU-treated are the best for rainy days.
Is Polyester Gazebo Waterproof?
Polyester gazebos are not necessarily waterproof. Gazebo canopies that are made of thin polyester absorb small amounts of water if they’re not lined with an extra PVC layer or treated with waterproofing chemicals. PU (polyurethane) treated polyester has amazing waterproofing qualities to it.
Does Waterproof Spray Smell?
Yes, most waterproofing sprays have an unpleasant smell of silicone and chemicals. This is why it is important to waterproof your shoes, clothes, and backpacks outdoors, away from children and pets. Wear a face mask to minimize the odor. The smell should vanish after the spray has completely dried on the fabric.
How Many Coats Of The Spray Should I Use?
Apply at least two coats of waterproofing spray on the fabric to get the best results. Follow the instructions provided on the spray bottle, just to be sure. Let the treated fabric dry for 24 hours or more in a well-ventilated area to minimize the odor.
How To Waterproof Gazebo Canopy: Final Thoughts
Repairing items that have sentimental value gives us a sense of accomplishment and joy.
This is the main reason why I have decided to write a complete guide on how to waterproof gazebo canopy on your own – to help you and others continue making great memories under one canopy roof.
Did you find this article useful? Let me know in the comments below and share this tutorial on your social media. Your friends might be looking for the same waterproofing solutions as you are.
Featured Image Credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/stpeterscommunitynews/
Great info, I’m buying a new gazebo and going to spray the waterproof spray on it as soon as we get it sk it’ll be protected for years