Boat cover. Am I doing something wrong?

[Redtruck12]

had my boat indoors for a major restoration for about 2 years.
recently got her to the point of testing and trials.
Had it outside running it on a flusher fitting to do some engine tuning and a rainstorm started to roll in.
decided to pull out my new never used outdoor “Carver Flex 4 poly flex” cover.

when I purchased it I was told it is the best universal fit cover available for my boat shape and size (17’ Duo Vagabond) cover is supposed to be “water resistant breathable etc”
My understanding is a tight cover supported as to no allow any pooling should repel rain.
well it doesn’t!!!!
1/2 hour of rain ( not a downpour but s steady rain) no pooling BUT LOTS of water in the boat! Water to the point that it was collecting in the elastic band along the sides of the boat. Soaking wet carpet and water in the bilge

any advice? Does it need to be treated with a repellent? Inside out maybe? I don’t get it! Did I buy junk?

 

[alldodge]

Its not designed to keep water out, its a storage cover only (keeps dust of everything). There site states not recommended for mooring or trailering

Our Flex-Fit series of boat covers is suitable for virtually any style boat. Economically priced, a Flex-Fit cover is an excellent choice for storage but is not recommended for mooring or trailering.

 

[Redtruck12]

Also says “water repellent “
i didn’t plan on mooring or trailering with it but expected it to keep rain off.
im still thinking I am installing it incorrectly. Possibly not pulled tight enough?

 

[briangcc]

I'm assuming you purchased the cover about the time the boat was? If so, it may be time to recoat the cover with water repellent even though it was unused. I've used the stuff with PTFE before and it works great.


Pretty sure this is the stuff I've used in the past:

https://www.iboats.com/shop/marikate-fabric-waterproofer-gl.html


Just get a cheapo spray bottle or two from your local discount store.

 

[Redtruck12]

I appreciate the suggestions. Cover was new last year, tried for fit and placed back in the box.
i will maybe try re- coating it

 

[Silvertip]

Hold a section of the cover to your mouth. Then attempt to blow through it. If you can it is not water "proof" and likely not even water "repellent". Ever touch the inside of a tent during a heavy rain. Chances are it will weep a little moisture in that spot.

 

[wrvond]

Assuming you are using support poles to tent the cover, the only thing left to do is spray it with a water repellent chemical such as 303 fabric guard or similar.