Axis Wake Research A20 Owner's Manual page 105

below the dew point the water vapor in that air will condense onto all surfaces inside the boat. In
the morning it will take longer to heat the air and surfaces under the cover as it affords protection
thereby lengthening the time it takes to have the condensation evaporate. It's very possible if
weather conditions change that the condensation may not return to vapor for quite some time.
This condition is often misunderstood as the cover "leaking" water through the fabric, but because of
the fabric's high hydrostatic water resistance (160 cm) this is not possible. It's understandable to think that
having the cover wet underneath is somehow due to it allowing water through, but it is just condensation
forming on its surface. It's like camping in a synthetic tent; if you've ever done it you'll remember water
beads form on the tent surface and bumping the tent would cause them to "rain" on you!
Pooling Water: Water can pool on a cover for various reasons. However, the Axis cover is designed to
combat this by having the overall features and characteristics work in concert to maximize its resistance.
The fabric choice requires it to be lightweight, high-strength, coated, water-repellent treated and
"dimensionally" stable. This minimizes the fabric adding weight, and its strength and stability allows for
the necessary tight fit.
The "face" surface is treated with a water repellency, lowering the surface tension so water beads
up and runs off. The "back" surface is urethane-coated, providing additional defense against water
penetrating the cover. The new water repellent lowered the surface tension further over traditional
treatments where the water beads move sooner joining with others making them run off the cover sooner
& faster (very visible). It also increased hydrostatic water resistance (the ability of fabric to resist water
penetration) from about 100 cm to 170 cm.
All "face" water repellent treatments wear off and the "water beading" will lessen eventually, allowing
water to be absorbed by the fabric fibers, but the "back side" urethane coating will provide the second
defense of penetration.
A traditional "face" treatment lasts about six (6) to nine (9) months, and tests on the enhanced
treatment (BW+) show it will last three to four times longer.
In all cases durability of the treatment is very dependent on the environment and use the cover
experiences. Providing the enhanced water repellent as a re-apply alternative isn't possible because
it requires a controlled bonding process to properly attach it to the fabric surface. There are various
aftermarket repellents available, but because they are mechanically attached they usually only last about
one month or so–like waxing your car!
Maintaining Zippers and Hardware:
• Lubricate zippers periodically using a clear silicone spray. Spray silicone on to
the zipper and work the zipper back and forth.
• Lubricate fasteners periodically using a clear silicone spray to keep corrosion
to a minimum. Replace any missing fasteners or fasteners that show signs of
corrosion.
• Do not use petroleum-based products; i.e. petroleum jelly.
Maintenance Tips: The real key to canvas longevity is like all things in life:
maintenance. Keep the canvas clean of dust, dirt and environmental residue on a
regular basis.
• Top fabrics should be cleaned of any dirt buildup at regular intervals.
• We recommend applying a mild, lukewarm soap solution, such as a liquid
dishwashing soap, with a soft brush or sponge. Water temperature is not to exceed
100 F. DO NOT allow the soap to dry. The fabric must then be carefully rinsed with
o
clear water in order to remove any remaining soap residue. Allow canvas to dry thoroughly. DO NOT USE
DETERGENTS!
• The use of abrasive detergents and/or substrates containing solvents or gasoline will damage the
fabric. If using high-pressure or steam-cleaning devices, use caution as improper use could damage the
vinyl coating and/or fabric.
• Using harsh chemicals could void the fabric warranty on your top if not recommended by the
manufacturer.
• DO NOT PUT MARINE CANVAS IN YOUR HOUSEHOLD DRYER. DO NOT DRY CLEAN BOAT CANVAS.
2016 Axis Wake Research Owner's Manual . . . Page 4-4