Are canopies waterproof? Do you want to know?

The question of whether canopies are waterproof cannot be answered with a simple "yes" or "no." In reality, it mainly depends on the materials they are made of and how they are manufactured.

We can understand this from the following aspects:

⇨ Material is Key

Different canopies use vastly different fabrics, which directly determine their water resistance:
Plastic or Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) types: This material itself is like plastic sheeting; water cannot penetrate it. If your canopies have this thick, plastic texture, they are usually very waterproof and can withstand heavy rain.
Polyester or Nylon types (with coating): This type of fabric is most common outdoors. Their surface is usually coated with a thin layer of "waterproof glue." As long as this coating is intact, water droplets will bead up and roll off, performing very well.
Canvas or Cotton types: Traditional canvas, without special treatment, will actually leak water. However, modern canvas canopies often undergo special water-repellent treatment to prevent water from seeping into the fibers.

⇨ Seams are the "Weak Point"

Even if the fabric itself is waterproof, canopies have an easily overlooked area: the stitching:
During heavy rain, water may drip through the needle holes where the fabric is sewn together.
Higher-quality canopies will have a layer of "seam sealing tape" applied to the seams to seal the needle holes. Without this treatment, even if the fabric is waterproof, you may still feel water dripping from above.

⇨ Shape and Installation are also Crucial

Whether it's rainproof also depends on whether the water can drain away smoothly:
If the canopies are installed too loosely, or the slope of the top is insufficient, "water pockets" (accumulated water) will form during rain.
Once the accumulated water becomes heavy, the water pressure will force water through the fabric seams, and may even cause the entire frame to collapse. Therefore, a tight and sloped installation is essential for ensuring waterproof performance.

⇨ Wear and Tear

Waterproof performance is not permanent:
Canopies exposed to the sun for extended periods will gradually have their waterproof coating peel off or crack.
Frequent folding and friction will also thin the waterproof layer. This is also why the awning, which had been used for several years without any problems, has now started to leak.