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How-to Resources & FAQ is library of articles and videos complied to help our customers complete their DIY leather and vinyl restoration projects.
Can I restore or recolor boat upholstery?
Rub ‘n Restore® is an anti-UV finish that conditions, recolors and protects marine vinyl and boat upholstery. It’s easily applied with a sponge and can conceal mold, mildew, leaf and chemical stains. This video review from a customer demonstrates:
Mold and mildew must be pre-treated with alcohol. Our finishes will also conceal pinking if Pinkaway Solution does not remove it.
Rub ‘n Restore® Colors are water-based acrylic finishes. Cure time varies with temperature and humidity. Even if the finish has not had sufficient time to cure, most folks are pleased with its performance. Minimize water or liquids from pooling on any surface for prolonged periods of time. The worst that may occur is slight discoloration of the finish. This often ‘dries down’. If it doesn’t, simply touch-up and allow more time to cure before exposure to liquids.
Marine vinyls may need to be touched up more often because of their frequent contact with harsh chemical sunscreens (which are capable of stripping commercially waxed floors). For this reason, consider a urethane or aerosol coating like SEM to change the color of marine vinyl.
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The Knowledge Hub is a library of articles and videos complied to help our customers complete their DIY leather and vinyl restoration projects.
Judy says
I have a 100-year old leather suitcase that is beginning to rub off and disintegrate. How might I restore it or at least preserve what is left? Thanks.
lesandre says
Sounds like filler and a new finish would do a lot, but it may be too far gone. Please submit photos and request an evaluation for our professional assessment and tailored instructions.
Jason says
Hi I have a pontoon boat that has tan seats that have faded over the years. Does this product work for this application?
lesandre says
Absolutely, but I would work with a close-matching color. If our Camel or Honey aren’t good matches, I would send a sample for a Custom Color. You can learn more about this service or order swatches of our Camel and Honey here.
Christi says
Is there an instructional video or instructions on how to apply the products to repair marine vinyl boat upholstery damage like you show in the photo?
lesandre says
We don’t have a video specific to boats, but the process and logic are the same as with other applications. Clean the surface, tape test, and apply with a damp sponge. On desiccated, blistered areas, dilute the color with up to equal parts Clear Prep+Finish for the first base coat, and then use pure color to get coverage and sunscreen. Less is always more.
Tony says
Can I buy this in Australia
lesandre says
Unfortunately we’re not distributed internationally, but we do ship directly. More info about shipping and a coupon code for international buyers are here.