The Life Of Canvas

[Kelly]

I'm guessing this varies a bit by the manufacturer ~

 anybody have some educated guesses on the average life span of PU canvas?

I know when you buy a used one you should really inspect the canvas.  At what point would you expect to see a lot of wear and tear?

(As with lots of things ~ I know a lot depends on how well the PU was maintained.  I'm just thinking of averages here ...)[/FONT]

[debbiedee1957]

Mine is going on 15 years and is in great condition.

[cyclone]

11 years on mine, and still looks fine.

[chasd60]

SOme of it depends on what the fabric actually is...canvas?.....Sunbrella?....and there are quite a few others

[SkipP]

Too many variables to fit a pattern!

Age, type, use, location, exposure..... they all play a part in longevity. Chas mentions Sunbrella... a synthetic used by Coleman. It won't ever rot, per se, but UV light will sure take it's toll over time.... after the inhibitors are gone. Canvas, real canvas, can rot and break down in the right conditions (moisture) in a short amount of time. With a little care, it'll last as long as the camper. Knowing that replacement canvas can easily make a bargain camper a poor (and costly) choice, look closely at the fabric. If it looks sound (no mildew, no powdery surface), most likely it is.
 
No real answer here... good luck!

[Kelly]

Too many variables to fit a pattern!

Age, type, use, location, exposure..... they all play a part in longevity. Chas mentions Sunbrella... a synthetic used by Coleman. It won't ever rot, per se, but UV light will sure take it's toll over time.... after the inhibitors are gone. Canvas, real canvas, can rot and break down in the right conditions (moisture) in a short amount of time. With a little care, it'll last as long as the camper. Knowing that replacement canvas can easily make a bargain camper a poor (and costly) choice, look closely at the fabric. If it looks sound (no mildew, no powdery surface), most likely it is.
 
No real answer here... good luck!

Darn, Skip.  I was afraid this was the case.

ah me ~ guess I just have to follow your advice and look closely!

[dee106]

our first PU was a 72 and we changed it in 99, because the old owner didn't watch his corners and it ripped. but the canvas would of lasted longer with a bit of TLC.