Most zippers are water-resistant, if you walk into a thunderstorm wearing one like this, water will get through. Water can be kept out by rubbing silicone wax or beeswax over the zip or sealing it with waterproof tape.
Examples:
Waterproof zips with special treatment, as the name implies, are primarily used to provide defense against water/rain.
Rain jackets, down jackets, ski suits, diving suits, raincoats, waterproof shoes, fire suits, bags and luggage, outdoor jackets, fishing clothing, tents, dry bags, and outdoor backpacks are just a few examples.
How we can find the difference between a common zipper and a waterproof Zipper?
Check whether the fabric cloth and teeth are covered to tell the difference between a waterproof zipper and a regular zip. The waterproof zip teeth and fabric will be covered by the film adhered to the surface, rendering them invisible.
Method to make waterproof Zipper
- Use of wax
- Use a covering
- Replace it with purpose-made waterproof Zipper
How to use wax
One of the easiest and fastest zipper waterproofing solutions.
Such as beeswax, Silicone wax will help to seal up the zip and can repel the water.
Method:-
• To wax your zipper, apply a tiny quantity of wax to the outside of teeth and rub it in until all teeth are coated.
• Make sure you rub it in thoroughly so that it goes into the spaces between your teeth, where water can enter.
• If you use too much, it will get all over your coat, which isn’t great.
• After applying the wax move the zipper up and down to spread the wax evenly.
• Wax also helps lubricate your zip, so it should run smoothly once you apply it.
Use of zipping covering/storm flap.
• A zipped cover, often known as a storm flap, is standard on most outdoor coats.
• A fabric flap runs along with the zip. When the zipper is closed, the storm flap can be used to cover it.
• For extra protection, it includes velcro attachments.
• A combination of storm flap, zipper, and velcro gives more resistance to water.
• If your jacket doesn’t have a storm flap, you can sew one on yourself if you know how?
• Check out this tutorial on how to add a storm flap to your jacket if you want to go this route.
• Instead, you may just apply some impermeable tape, such as Flex tape, over the zipper to keep water out as a short-term remedy.
Replace The Zipper With Purpose Made Waterproof Zipper
• Waterproof zippers have the coils hidden at the back of the zipper, a rubber or PVC coating covers the front of the zip when it is closed making it completely waterproof.
• If you want to change the zip you should take the jacket to a tailor. But if you can do it yourself then follow the following steps:-First buy a waterproof zip according to the length of your coat. Do not buy too long and too short.
• Remove the original zipper. Then sew the waterproof zipper in your coat.
• Sew your waterproof zipper in. It’s a great idea to use anti-wick thread since it contains additives that assist keep water out of the seams.
Classification Of Waterproof Zips
Waterproof zips are classified as follows, based on the coating materials and unique treatments used.
• TPU waterproof zips
• Imported PU waterproof zips
• Color film waterproof zips
• PVC waterproof zips
• Silver and gold film waterproof zips.
• Reflective film waterproof zips
• Coated waterproof zips.
• Printing series waterproof zips
According to the manufacturing materials, waterproof zips can be classified into:
• Plastic waterproof zips
• Coil waterproof zips
• Invisible waterproof zips
• Metal waterproof zips
According to their functionality, waterproof zips can be classified into:
• Industrial waterproof zips
• Civil waterproof zips
• Airtight zips/watertight zip.
Buying guidelines
• Budget:
The most expensive waterproof zips are imported PU waterproof zips, followed by TPU waterproof zips. The cheapest of the three varieties are PVC waterproof zips. You can buy them easily online on Amazon.
• Application
Imported PU waterproof zips should be used for heavy-duty tests that need a lot of pulling back and forth of the zips.
Choose imported PU waterproof zips [-80°C, 200°C] or TPU waterproof zips [-40°Cto-50°C, 100°C-180°C] for excellent low/high-temperature resistance.
Reflective waterproof zips are recommended for uniforms incorporating safety signs, such as traffic police uniforms.
• Waterproof effect
The performance of waterproof zips is largely connected to the breadth of the central seam. The waterproofing effect will be harmed by an extremely wide central seam.
• Waterproof film
Regardless matter how long the film is exposed to low temperatures or how many times it is washed, it will not easily fall off or shred. A high-quality film also ensures a longer lifespan.
• Color difference
Must have minimum color difference.
• Appearance
The film surface should be flat and smooth.
• Smoothness degree
The more smooth the better it Will be.
• Environment friendly.
Passing the certificate OEKO-TEX100 standard.
How to use waterproof zips
Washing:- before washing, close the zip to give protection. Avoid washing at a hot temperature and dry it naturally.
Dry cleaning:– The dry washing of waterproof zips may differ from the dry cleaning of fabrics. Please read the washing instructions and double-check with us if you have any questions.
Ironing: Do not iron the waterproof film since it may peel off. Before ironing, place a piece of cloth on the surface. Ironing should be done at a temperature below 100 degrees Celsius.
Installation: Chemical interactions can easily occur between the waterproof zips and the surface of PVC/PU films, resulting in stains on the fabrics, particularly dazzling white fabrics. Before installing the waterproof zip place a piece of cloth between the fabric and the zip.
Packing: To prevent the color of the zips from migrating to the fabrics during shipping, place a piece of paper between the goods.
Summary
We have researched the best possible method to make your zip waterproof. Choose the method wisely. Making the waterproof zipper is the best idea for you outside in rain. I hope now you have satisfied with our suggestions. Wish you the best of luck.
