Where Lake Champlain meets the Adirondack Mountains

	INFLATABLE REPAIRS Fabric types from Westport Marina on Lake Champlain
Models-Years	Hull ID plates	Zodiac Valves	Sales/Service	Metal IC Valves	Oarlocks	Avon Valves

Fabric Differences in Inflatable Boats

The basic difference between boat manufacturer's fabrics is the chemical composition of the materials used.

Repair instructions

In supported fabric boats (those with threads in the material), the fabric strength is measured by the weight of the thread used. Denier or Decitex(metric) is the unit of measure, not a type of fabric.
1000 Denier = 1100 Decitex

The type of thread varies from Dacron to Nylon as does the tightness of the weave. Many heavy duty backpacks are listed at being made of 1000 denier thread. Most foul weather gear is 220 or 440 denier. Zodiac boats are made of 1000 denier and up fabric (the HD's are as high as 1600). Some other companies vary the weight of the fabric with the weight of the boat. Some "lite" duty boats are 200 denier.

The tightness of the weave is another measure. You may have a 9x9 weave (threads/square centimeter) or a 3x3. The weight of the thread is important when considering weave density. You can put many pieces of thread in a square centimeter, but a 2x2 weave of 1/8" line will be stronger. Density must make sense with fabric weight.

The coatings and the process of applying the coatings separate the products as well. Zodiac uses a synthetic material which is continually evolving. Using long-chain plastomers ("polymers"), many compounds are formed. Nylon and Polyester are 2 examples. The alternative is to use natural rubber compounds. These are commonly Hypalon and Neoprene in the boating industry.

Synthetic materials allow compounds to be formulated for the specific application. The external coating can be designed for UV and abrasion resistance, while the inner coating can be focused on air integrity. With natural compounds, this becomes more difficult.

Natural fabrics have to be glued to assemble the boat. Zodiac uses a thermo-bonding technique, similar to electronic welding. The welds become stronger than the fabric itself. The welding process also allows a reduction in labor costs and more precise production as it is all automated.

From a reality point of view, both are excellent materials. Each has its weaknesses. The most noticeable difference is that the natural rubber compounds will chalk in the sun. This means you'll get a red butt when going ashore in your dress whites.

Neither fabric should be treated with a petroleum or silicone based product. An example of such a product would be ArmorAll®. The product won't hurt the fabric, but it will prevent glue from adhering to the it, and will seep into the seams and dissolve glue. You boat will begin to come apart at the seams. Very little that can be done once this happens. Repairs are difficult at best.

For all inflatables, we highly recommend 303 Protectant, available here or at automotive stores and the mass merchandisers. It is a water based polymer that inhibits the destructive forces of Ultra Violet rays and it seals the boat against the penetration of dirt. We found that 303 made our boats easier to clean at boat shows and in the display room. 303 can be used on fiberglass, plastic, dash boards, tires, etc. A major benefit is that is does not trap the UV rays inside the coating. This prevents heat build-up, which can be a problem with some other silicone based products. Order 303 Protectant