Canvas Cover FAQs

What You Need to Know

Common Questions About Marine Canvas, Repairs & Custom Work

At Joe Burke and Son Canvas Shop, we understand that investing in canvas products or repairs comes with a lot of questions. Below, we’ve answered some of the most frequent inquiries we get from boat owners, contractors, and homeowners alike. If you don’t see your question here, feel free to contact us directly.

What materials do you use for your covers and upholstery?

We use trusted marine-grade fabrics like Sunbrella, Seaquest, Ship 2 Shore, and Softside. These are designed to resist water, sun, mildew, and tearing over time. For repairs, we use YKK zippers and other durable fasteners.

Can I get a custom boat cover even if I'm out of state?

Yes. Many of our customers are located outside of Maine. We can work with your measurements or arrange for you to ship your existing canvas to us for duplication or repair.

How long does a typical custom cover or tarp take to complete?

Turnaround times vary based on the season and the complexity of the project. Most custom jobs take 1–2 weeks, while repairs can often be done in just a few days. We’ll give you a clear timeline before we start.

Do you offer repairs for zippers, snaps, or seams?

Absolutely. We specialize in repairing damaged zippers, broken snaps, worn seams, and other common canvas issues. It's often a faster and more cost-effective alternative to replacement.

Can you match colors or materials for replacements?

Yes, we carry a range of color and texture options. We can also match or replace outdated materials with modern equivalents that perform better and look cleaner.

Do you warranty your work?

We stand behind the quality of our craftsmanship. If any issue arises due to a defect in our workmanship or materials, we’ll make it right.

Do you only work with marine clients?

No. While marine canvas is our specialty, we also serve residential, industrial, and commercial clients needing tarps, sunroom canvas, insulated curtains, and more.

Still have a question?

Reach out to speak with one of our canvas experts.