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Ten Most Common Boat Cover Issues and Solutions

Author : John Cooper | Published On : 15 Aug 2026

It may be hard to overestimate the importance of getting a reliable boat cover since it will help you keep your boat safe from all the elements, including the sun, rain, dust, and anything else. However, even if you have an extremely durable boat cover, it still may face some troubles sooner or later.

Nevertheless, there are ways of dealing with the most common boat cover issues and saving on repairs and replacements. The list below provides the top 10 most common boat cover issues and solutions.

1. Tears and Rips

The Problem

Tears and rips are among the most common boat cover issues. They may appear as a result of strong winds, hardware, branches of trees, and anything else.

The Solution

It is possible to fix small tears immediately with the help of special marine grade tape or patches. Large tears can be fixed through sewing them up and adding UV resistant threads.

Proper inspections will allow you to notice any damages at their early stages. You can read more about fixing your boat covers here.

 

2. Water Collection in the Cover

Problem

The accumulation of water in the cover can be stressful to the fabric and stitching and lead to ideal conditions for the formation of mold and mildew.

Solution

Fix support poles or make use of the cover support system to attain the right water drainage. The cover should be tight enough to ensure that water does not collect in particular places.

Drain water from the cover once the storm is over.

3. Mold and Mildew Formation

Problem

Water accumulated beneath the cover forms an excellent environment for the growth of mold and mildew.

Solution

Cover cleaning using recommended marine products and ventilation when the boat is being stored are essential. The cover should be dry before storage.

4. Fabric Degradation due to UV Rays Exposure

The Problem

Frequent exposure of fabric to sunlight leads to its fading, degradation, and deterioration.

The Solution

Protect your fabric by applying marine fabric protectant that features UV rays protection. Also, try to keep your boat covered when not in use.

Consistent usage of fabric protection from UV rays will play an important role in prolonging its lifespan.

5. Zipper Deterioration or Corrosion

The Problem

The problem with marine canvas zippers is their exposure to moisture, salt water, dust, and even UV rays causing corrosion of the zippers.

The Solution

Ensure that zippers are cleaned and lubricated regularly using marine products. Replace damaged zippers or zipper sliders in order not to exert more pressure on the fabric.

In case of zipper problems, you might want to consider our marine zippers, made specifically for marine canvas.

Additionally, EZ-Xtend replacement zippers are used by many boat owners for boat canvas.

6. Loose/Damaged Snaps

The Problem

Snaps should hold the cover together; nevertheless, the snaps could be either loose or damaged/corroded away from the fabric.

The Solution

It will make sense to check and repair loose or damaged snaps in order not to strain your fabric.

For additional information on how to solve this problem, please see our guide on how to repair the snaps of your boat cover.

7. Wearing out of the Seams

The Problem

Even though your fabric might be in perfect condition, it is possible that the stitches are worn out due to sun and bad weather conditions.

The Solution

The seams need to be checked regularly and re-stitched with UV-resistant marine thread.

8. Shrinkage

Problem

There may be some fabrics that are prone to shrinkage due to heat exposure, improper cleaning methods and age.

Solution

Adhere to the recommended cleaning methods and do not expose the cover to excessive heat during storage.

Minor shrinkages can be sorted through adjusting the attachments; in case of extreme shrinkage the cover will have to be either repaired or even replaced.

9. Wind Damage

Problem

Flapping, tearing and wear and tear can be experienced on the cover if it is not adequately secured.

Solution

Make sure that all straps, tie downs, snaps and other fasteners are in place before you leave your boat unattended.

Also check the attachments periodically for worn out ones.

10. Problems with Acquiring the Repair Parts

Problem

It is common for many boat owners to find it hard to acquire the required repair parts including zippers, sliders and fasteners.

Solution

Having spare parts will simplify the repair process.

Below are some zipper answers and marine zippers questions that will guide you on the proper repair parts to purchase.

Maintenance Guidelines

It is easy to avoid problems related to your boat cover through proper maintenance.

What you should do:

  • Check your cover at least once per each season.

  • Drain any standing water after storms.

  • Clean your cover.

  • Lubricate your zippers and moving parts.

  • Repair any tears.

  • Keep your cover dry during storage.

  • Do not allow your cover to get exposed to UV light.

All of the procedures take no more than a few minutes to make sure that your cover will be good for many more years to come.

Conclusion

Boat covers are very important items which you use to keep your investment safe, but still, they need maintenance to be able to work properly. If you address all the main issues, such as torn covers, damaged zippers, standing water, mold, and broken snaps, you will not spend as much time and money in the future.

If you have problems with your boat cover, including repairs of zippers and replacement of hardware, you need to use appropriate maintenance methods and high-quality replacements.