what is headliner fabric made of
If your car's roof lining is sagging or stained, you've probably wondered: what is headliner fabric made of, and why can't you just glue up any fabric? Automotive headliner material is a layered textile built to stay light, flexible and quiet while clinging to a curved roof board. Knowing those layers helps you choose the right replacement.
The Three Layers of Headliner Fabric
Face Fabric
The visible side is usually a soft polyester or nylon knit, though some styles use a suede-like microfiber or a vinyl finish. Knits stretch slightly, which helps the fabric wrap around contours without wrinkling.
Foam Backing
Most car roof liner fabric is bonded to a thin layer of polyurethane foam. The foam adds cushion, helps dampen road noise and hides minor imperfections in the headliner board. Over time, old foam breaks down, which is the main cause of sagging.
Scrim
Many foam backed headliner fabrics add a lightweight mesh scrim behind the foam. It gives the adhesive a stable surface to grip and keeps the foam from tearing during installation.
What to Look For
- A color and texture that match your interior
- Foam backing suited to your adhesive and board
- Enough yardage to cover the board in one piece
Ready to start your headliner replacement? Browse the headliner fabrics below to find the right fit.
