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Weatherproofing Fabrics with Impregnation

Impregnation is applied to fabrics exposed to weather conditions. Tents, clothing, shoes, awnings, truck tarpaulins, and convertible vehicle tops are all treated with impregnation to protect against moisture and mold.

Fabrics Should Be Well Protected in the Outdoor Area

It is necessary to use fabrics in the outdoor area from time to time. However, they are quite susceptible to moisture, which can destroy them and lead to mold formation. Impregnation makes the fabrics highly resistant to these issues by creating a layer that seals the pores, preventing moisture from penetrating. It also protects against mold. Applying impregnating agents is simple; they are typically supplied in pressure or spray bottles and only need to be sprayed on. For optimal protection, this procedure should be repeated at least once a year.

Protecting Materials Should Always Be Tailored to Their Purpose

ASMC offers impregnations such as those from Nikwax, tailored to specific uses. Different outdoor fabrics have varying requirements that must be met. There are special protective layers available for leather as well. It is particularly useful on light-colored leather types, preventing them from attracting dirt quickly. The bottles are usually compact, making them easy to store in outdoor gear.

What Should You Consider When Impregnating Shoes?

The type of shoe determines the application method and intensity of impregnation. In some cases, it may even be better to forego impregnation entirely. For instance, if hiking only occurs in sunny weather, the shoe's breathability may take precedence over liquid protection. Generally, impregnation should precede any other maintenance steps to allow it to fully penetrate. Applying care substances after a drying period ensures an ideal combination. However, multiple layers of protection and care can restrict shoe breathability, especially for leather shoes, requiring them to be alternated daily to allow them to dry and release absorbed moisture back into the environment. Leather fat is especially useful for protecting this type of shoe material.

Other types of shoes should be treated as indicated in the instructions of the respective impregnation product to make them water-resistant. Further useful shoe care tips can also be found at the German Shoe Institute.

Frequently Asked Questions: Impregnation

What can be impregnated?

Not only fabrics like clothing, hiking boots, or tents can be impregnated to protect them from rain and moisture. Tiles on the terrace, for example, can also benefit from impregnation, especially the grouting, which otherwise quickly absorbs dirt due to its rough surface. Of course, this also applies to bathrooms and showers, where daily exposure to water and lime can occur. Everyday items such as couches can also be treated with such surface protection.

What are synonyms for impregnation and where does the word come from?

Hydrophobization, which means making something water-repellent, is still occasionally used. Otherwise, the word originates from Latin and originally means "to saturate". The metaphorical sense probably arises from saturating the fabric with a protective substance. Nano-sealing offers additional protection by penetrating the smallest pores.

What technical methods are available for applying a protective layer?

In addition to classic methods like spraying with a spray at home, various industrial processes are available:
- Padding
- Dipping
- Spraying
- Pressure impregnation
- Pflatschen (Kiss-Roll)

Are there safety, health, or environmental concerns?

Unfortunately, yes. Perfluorinated surfactants from impregnation agents, mainly used in breathable textiles, can enter the environment through wastewater and accumulate due to their non-biodegradable composition.

Can impregnated textiles or fabrics be washed and dried in a dryer?

Generally, it is advised against both, especially using a dryer. However, you should always rely on the washing and care instructions provided by the manufacturer.

How long does impregnation typically last?

This depends on the product used and the material it is applied to. Since the information varies and cannot be generalized due to different usage patterns, it is advisable to consult the instructions of the product or finished item.