In today’s blog post, we will answer the following question: How much does it cost to replace a canvas on a pop-up camper? We will also explain how you can fix your pop-up canvas by yourself.
How much does it cost to replace a canvas on a pop-up camper?
Replacing a canvas on a pop-up camper can cost you between $1000 to $2500 depending on several factors:
- The severity of the damage (you might need to replace a few small portions or the whole canvas).
- The type of canvas and its overall quality (a vinyl tarp is more expensive than a canvas tarp).
- Whether the replacement is done by a professional or as a DIY project (a professional costs more but offers you a guarantee).
How long will the new canvas last?
A new camper canvas can last between 10 to 15 years. Its lifespan will mainly depend on where you are storing your trailer, whether it is inside or outside. You must also clean and properly dry your trailer before any storage to ensure a long-lasting canvas.
The lifespan of your camper canvas will thus depend a lot on:
- The use you make of your camper;
- It also depends on whether your camper is canvas or vinyl. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. The vinyl makes condensation in the tent trailer because it does not breathe, the canvas lasts less. The ideal in our opinion is a canvas with the edges at the bottom in vinyl.
- If you go to parks where there are a lot of trees, the sap settles on the fabrics and it wears out the fabrics prematurely.
- If you leave it mounted in your home all summer long, the UV rays will wear out the canvas.
- When you close it after a rain you have to open it at home to dry it etc.
- There is also the roof to check, all joints should be sealed ideally every year to prevent water from entering.
For the rest, it’s regular maintenance like any vehicle (tires, brakes, wheel bearings). Everything changes and it’s relatively inexpensive. The frame as it is as well as the box of the tent trailer if there has been no water infiltration it does not really wear out.
How to replace a torn pop-up camper canvas by yourself
Over time, you may need to repair the canvas portion of your pop-up camper. Taking the time to get it right will keep the camper in good shape for years to come. Here’s how you can do it by yourself:
- Measure the length or dimensions of the tear or hole that exists in the canvas portion of the camper. Add 2.5 to 5 cm (1 to 2 inches) to the measurement to allow good coverage with the patch.
- Cut two pieces of canvas or fabric from a patch kit to match the measurements you took.
- Apply the canvas adhesive to one side of one of the patches and place that patch inside the camper canvas. If the damage is the result of mold, rot or fire, clean the area first and allow it to dry before applying the patches.
- Apply the canvas adhesive to the second patch and place it in the same position as the first patch, but on the outside of the camper. Leave the camper in its upright position and allow the patches to dry for 24 hours.
- Apply a silicone sealant spray, or waterproof wax, to the canvas stains, it works on the edges of the patch. Allow to dry according to product directions, then close the pop-up portion of your camper canvas camper.
Pop-up camper canvas simple repairs
Over time, even the best-maintained camper canvas will need a little repair. After a season of camping, take a look at it to see if it needs a little sprucing up or fixing.
- How to fix a canvas broken hoop: Most camper canvases come with a pole repair sleeve so you can get a quick fix when you are outdoors. Are you missing a roll bar repair sleeve? Cut out an aluminum can of beer or soft drink and turn it into the metal foil. Roll it as tightly as possible around the broken hoop, then secure it with duct tape, making sure to cover the sharp edges. When you get home, you can do a permanent repair.
- Slide the scabbard over the broken hoop section. You may need to tighten the hoop with pliers to allow the scabbard to cover it.
- Adjust the scabbard to roughly centre it over the break.
- Wrap the ends of the scabbard with duct tape – a must-have in a repair kit – to hold it in place.
- Keep camping, hiking, water sports, and biking before coming home for a permanent fix. See how to replace a broken hoop section below.
- How to repair canvas small tears: Repairing camper canvas tears is pretty straightforward. There are a wide variety of tapes and products on the market for you to make permanent waterproof repairs. The only thing you need to know is the material of your camper canvas (silicone coated fabrics require glue that will adhere to slippery surfaces) before choosing the right piece of adhesive, repair tape or product, and following repair instructions.
If the camper canvas has a few small tears, try this quick fix:
- Apply the base of your palm to one side of the torn canvas.
- Place your other hand on the other side of the canvas, then join your hands with the canvas in between.
- Vigorously rub the net between your hands. If the tear is not too large, this should realign the threads.
- Get a canvas repair kit if the tear is too large.
What is the best kit to fix a torn pop-up camper canvas?
Yes, there is a simple kit to fix a hole in a pop-up camper canvas. This kind of kit is easily found anywhere. After fairly long research and documentation, the easiest is Tear-Aid on Amazon. It is simple to set up, very easy and accessible. This is the kind of thing you are very happy to have on hand in case something goes wrong.
Now, if you have more space and material (scissors for example) and you don’t have a makeshift repair to do right now, you can use some type of roll kit.
Less expensive than turnkey “patches”, it requires a little more precision since you have to cut the adhesive tape. Another strong point: it is available in different colours to suit the style of your tent or folding caravan canvas to be repaired.
In any case, you can also apply the piece of duct tape to the inside of the tent canvas. Indeed, it is often the cleanest or easiest place to clean. Also, for aesthetic reasons – if your tape is not transparent, it will look nicer.
The bottom line
Fixing a hole in your pop-up camper canvas is an easy job to do. The most important thing is to act as quickly as possible. A hole in the camper canvas will cause you more issues, such as water leaks or the need to replace the whole canvas.
Do you have any questions about the content? Let us know!
FAQ on How much does it cost to replace a canvas on a pop-up camper?
How do you repair a canvas on a camper canvas camper?
It is possible to repair canvas on a camper canvas camper, as long as the damage is not too big to interrupt your trip. With the right materials and a little guidance, the canvas can be detached and holes can be patched and grommets replaced. The fixed canvas can be placed back on the camper canvas camper. You will then be able to be back on the road for the camping trip in virtually no time.
How to repair an awning canvas?
To repair an awning canvas, gently rub the small area around the tear using VERY fine sandpaper (minimum 1000 grit) around the tear in the awning for better adhesion. You just need to rub to get a rough surface without weighing so as not to damage the canvas in depth.
How to clean and maintain a camper awning?
Here’s how to clean and maintain a camper awning:
- Always use mild soap.
- Water should be cold to lukewarm. Never over 38 ° c / 100 ° F.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
- Let it air dry only.
How to fix a hole in a canvas?
Here’s how to fix a hole in a canvas:
- You must first take care of the REAR PART of the tear.
- Clean the surfaces to be glued by removing dust.
- Using a brush, paste the contours of the tear on a surface equal to the strip you are going to position.
- Lay the fabric strip to cover the tear.
Other FAQs about Pop up campers that you may be interested in.
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What should you look for when buying a used pop-up camper?
