How to waterproof your fabric convertible roof (properly)

September 19, 2025

If your convertible top beads like a fresh raincoat, you’ve done it right. If it soaks up water like yesterday’s sponge… it’s time to re-proof. The good news? Weatherproofing your roof is simple, and with the right products, you can do it at home in a weekend.

Here’s the quick, expert guide to waterproofing a soft top the Renovo way — clean, simple, and proven.

📋 Note: This guide is for fabric tops. If you have vinyl, use our Vinyl Soft Top Protector. (Never mix them up — different materials, different chemistry.)

Before you start

Before you even think about waterproofing, your fabric roof needs a proper clean. Any old waterproofer or grime left in the fibres will stop the new formula from penetrating — and worse still, it can lock in dirt, mould, and algae.

That’s why we recommend starting with Renovo Fabric Soft Top Cleaner. It’s designed to lift dirt and remove previous protectants without damaging the delicate fabric. Use a soft brush, rinse well, and let the roof dry completely before moving on.

⚠️ Important: your soft top isn’t a patio — never attack it with a pressure washer! Gentle, hand-wash methods protect fibres and stitching, and are recommended by the OEM fabric manufacturer.

Optional but smart: Revive colour if needed

If your roof is faded or patchy, now is the time to restore it. Proofing on top of tired fabric just seals in the problem.

Our Renovo Fabric Soft Top Reviver comes in five shades to bring back a deep, even colour. Apply evenly, allow to dry, and you’ll restore that “just-detailed” look before you lock it all in with proofer.

How to weatherproof your convertible roof (step-by-step)

Now for the main event: waterproofing. Our Renovo Fabric Soft Top Protector doesn’t just keep the rain out — it adds UV protection and resists mould growth, keeping your fabric stronger for longer.

1. Dry prep

Brush off loose dust and debris. Work in shade on a cool, dry roof. Test an inconspicuous area for colourfastness.

2. Decant & stir (don’t shake)

Pour protector into a clean container and stir well. Shaking can introduce bubbles and uneven application.

3. Apply with a 5 cm / 2″ brush

Start in the centre, work quickly towards the edges. Aim to wet the fabric thoroughly and evenly. Keep a damp cloth handy to wipe any drips from paint, trim or glass as you go.

4. Let it dry

Typical drying is around 3 hours (ambient conditions apply). Don’t take the car out — or let it get rained on — until completely dry.

5. Second coat?

Apply additional coats only when the previous coat is fully dry. Ensure you have enough product to complete each full coat once you start.

How often should you waterproof?

We recommend re-applying every 6–12 months, depending on how you store and use your car. Daily driver left outdoors? Aim for every six months. Weekend classic kept under cover? Once a year should do.

Final thoughts

Waterproofing your convertible soft top isn’t just about keeping rain out. Done properly, it prevents mould, resists UV fading, and extends the life of the fabric. It’s a simple, satisfying job—and with the right products, you’ll see professional results every time.