is sunbrella fabric waterproof
Is Sunbrella fabric waterproof? The short answer is no. Most Sunbrella fabric is water resistant, not fully waterproof. That difference matters when you're choosing material for cushions, awnings, or boat covers.
Water Resistant vs. Waterproof
Standard Sunbrella upholstery and canvas fabrics are woven from solution-dyed acrylic and finished with a water-repellent treatment. Light rain beads up and rolls off. The weave also stays breathable, so moisture can evaporate instead of getting trapped. Under steady downpours or standing water, though, water can eventually soak through.
When You Need More Protection
For projects that must keep water out completely, look for a coated or laminated outdoor fabric, or add a waterproof liner beneath your main fabric. This approach works well for:
- Bimini tops and boat enclosures
- Covers for grills and furniture
- Cushions that stay outside year-round
Choosing the Right Outdoor Fabric
Weigh breathability, fade resistance, and how much rain your project will face. For seating, quick-dry foam paired with water-resistant fabric is a popular combination. For shade and cover projects, a coated, marine-grade option is often the better fit.
Ready to start? Browse our water-resistant and outdoor fabrics below and pick the right match for your project.
