Roof treatment

[Idleness]

On previous soft top cars once a year I treat it with Algae Zapper if needed, leave for a few days then wash the roof and leave it to dry thoroughly then treat it with Fabsil
Is there any reason that I shouldn't continue with this regime or is there better waterproofing available?

 

[t-tony]

Treating to get rid of Algae is a good idea if it’s needed although Milton babies bottle steriliser is very good. The roof material doesn‘t need water proofing at all. The water proof layer is underneath the top layer and not visible. Gentle washing is all that is needed and hoovering when it’s dry.

Tony.

 

[Idleness]

Sounds good one less thing to do.
The boat canopy is similar with an inbuilt waterproof layer but I still do that as it causes the water to bead on the surface rather than sink in to the layer below.

 

[DrWong]

I just lightly wipe with the suds and then rinse. Roof doesn't seem to mind and looks fine. Agree with Tony on sterilising fluid for algae, was very effective the one time I used it (and cheep!)

 

[t-tony]

The lower layer is butyl rubber so doesn't absorb any water. Treating it, as you say can make the water bead well and run off but isn't necessary.

Tony.

 

[andyglym]

Sounds good one less thing to do.
The boat canopy is similar with an inbuilt waterproof layer but I still do that as it causes the water to bead on the surface rather than sink in to the layer below.

By "waterproofing" you prevent the rain from getting to the waterproof layer, this dries it out and leads to cracking and leaks. Convertible roof companies love Convertible roof waterproofing products as it keeps them in business. Just a good clean is all it needs.

 

[ZEDonist UK]

I’m glad I read this post! Just spent £20 on roof treatments. Doh!
My roof has started leaking so has a half cover on it now as a temporary “fix”

 

[137699]

Fabric roofs are designed to absorb/wick water away - not repel it.
Treatments (despite what they say on the packet) cause the fabric to dry out which damages the fibres & the roof shrinks as a result.

You should never treat a roof - only clean it. Seeing water beading and running off the roof, contrary to popular belief is actually a "bad" thing.

 

[Stevo7682]

For what I had read about our roofs is the outer material is designed to initially absorb water and as thefibres get wet they expand to repell the water from in the inner layer allows the roof to be breathable.
Stephen.

 

[Idleness]

You have all talked me out of doing anything
Not collecting car until Wednesday week, but not overly bothered as the weather is rubbish

 

[DrWong]

For what I had read about our roofs is the outer material is designed to initially absorb water and asthenia fibres get wet they expand to repell the water from in the inner layer allows the roof to be breathable.
Stephen.

I've also read this in a few places, that the fibres expand and fill any gaps that moisture might sneak through