You’re walking down the street, then out of nowhere, a torrential rainstorm greets you. You were lucky enough to bring along with you a trusty umbrella that instantly kept you dry under it. But have you ever wondered the mechanism that ensures you stay dry under your umbrella? It all comes down to one thing – the waterproof umbrella fabric that covers the canopy. So, let’s find out how waterproof umbrella fabrics come to be.
Waterproofing Process
Waterproofing is generally the treatment that prevents water from being absorbed by a fabric. This is achieved either using a special type of fabric material or through treatment that ensures it is impervious to water. Some models are water-resistant because of their tightly woven fabrics that keep moisture at bay.
The tighter the weave, the higher and better the performance of the waterproof umbrella fabric. As an example, 210T fabric, commonly used in umbrellas, has a higher resistance to water than 190T fabric. Other fabrics, such as POE, are naturally waterproof and therefore would not need any special treatment to achieve this objective.
Deconstructing the Waterproof Umbrella Fabric Variants
- Polyester: The Reliable Workhorse
A very common fabric used in making umbrellas, polyester is quite strong and also water resistance. Its synthetic nature, along with a tight weave, makes this fabric impervious to rain, hence its popularity for everyday usage in umbrellas. Not only is polyester lightweight, but it also dries out quick in case you’re in a hurry. When thinking of an easily carried umbrella that does its job, polyester is among the top choices for waterproof umbrella fabric.
- Pongee: The Elegant Protector
Pongee fabric brings both style and practicality to the table. With a high-density weave and a smooth, velvety finish, it’s extremely good at keeping one dry while looking urbane. Pongee umbrellas marry style and functionality, making them a perfect fit for any individual who aspires to make his umbrella look fashionable and functionally relevant.
- Nylon: The Resilient Guardian
It is very famous for its strength and waterproof ability like a professional. The tightly woven fibers create a rugged barrier that can withstand even the most destructive weather. Lightweight and compact, nylon umbrellas are perfect for city dwellers looking for something portable or outdoor enthusiasts in dire need of a reliable waterproof on their escapades. When one thinks of a tough, waterproof fabric to make an umbrella, nylon is simply ideal.
- Satin: The Fashion Statement
Satin is more synonymous with its lustrous, smooth feel than with waterproofing. Nevertheless, satin treated with water-resistant coatings could serve as a fabulous, luxurious material for umbrellas. Though this is not the conventional choice of material to make umbrellas, satin umbrellas do find a place in current trends, more so for fashionably designed umbrellas. The smooth glossy surface lends gladrags to it, while it offers fairly good protection against light rains.
- Oxford: The Beach Umbrella Champion
Oxford is a multi-use, versatile fabric used for many things outdoors, including umbrellas. By nature, it is not waterproof; however, it can be treated to perform better in the water. Oxford, however, is more useful on beach umbrellas because here, the purpose is to offer protection against the sun with some splash or rain. Its strength and durability make Oxford very practical outdoors.
- POE (Polyolefin Elastomer): The Eco-Friendly Innovator
For environmentally conscious consumers, POE is an excellent choice in waterproof umbrella fabrics. Being recyclable, simple in structure yet effective in repelling water without any complications in ensuring protection for nature. Sustainability would make POE a great choice for you in such cases. Although Eco-friendly, it does not lag in water resistance capability too. So, you stay dry while helping save the planet.
Waterproof Fabric Special Treatments
In addition to the natural water resistance of some fabrics, most umbrellas are treated with special coatings to enhance their performance. These treatments enhance the waterproof qualities of the umbrella fabric even more. Some common treatments include:
DWR-Durable Water Repellent: This is a process that involves application of a treatment on top of the fabric to decrease surface tension and subsequently causing water to bounce off rather than seeping through.
PU Coating: The PU coating acts as a barrier on the fabric and makes the water penetration through the fabric very tough. Therefore, it becomes more durable in wet conditions.
Teflon Coating: Teflon provides a non-stick surface that not only repels water but even prevents stains, making the umbrella easier to clean and maintain.
Understanding Waterproof Umbrella Fabric Ratings
Not all umbrellas are created equal, and neither is their waterproofing capability. Here’s a breakdown of the different performance levels you might come across when selecting waterproof umbrella fabric:
Water Resistance: The lowliest umbrellas can only offer very minimal protection to be used on light rain days or drizzle. The fabric slows the absorption of water but doesn’t block it.
Water Repellent: Improved from water resistance, these are treated umbrellas to fend off moderate rainfall much better. Water rolls off the fabric instead of soaking in.
Waterproof: These are designed for heavy rain because of advanced fabric technology and treatment that block any moisture from getting through.
Stormproof: For those who head outdoors in the worst weather, stormproof umbrellas with solid frames and super-waterproof fabrics are reinforced. These are designed to withstand high winds and heavy rain, affording maximum protection in severe conditions.
Conclusion
The right waterproof fabric for an umbrella makes all the difference when the weather suddenly takes a turn. Be it durable polyester, classy pongee, hard-wearing nylon, sleek satin, rugged Oxford, or environment-friendly POE, each one has certain advantages of its own. And with the right waterproofing treatments, your umbrella will do more than keep you dry in the rain; it will make its case against time and wear. With that knowledge, you shall have no problem standing up to whatever the weather may throw your way, knowing your waterproof umbrella fabric will keep you dry and in style.