Fabric Roof

A fabric roof or hood usually consists of fabric stretched over a retractable metal frame. 

Modern hoods are made of synthetic textiles which are not prone to rot, are UV stable and generally more hard wearing than natural textiles or blends. The outer layer is cosmetic, and the roof does not rely on it to waterproof the car.  Under the outer sheet, there will be a waterproof membrane, sound deadening layers, and a cosmetic headlining.

It is important to know that the outer layer is synthetic and not the waterproof layer for two reasons. The first is that while we 'weather proof' the hood to help protect it with a hydrophobic coating, we are doing this to ensure it dries quickly and doesn't stay soggy, not to prevent water ingress.

Secondly, because the fabric is synthetic, and stain-proof, it cannot be re-dyed. Therefore, any products for recolouring are paints rather than dyes. 

Older vintage and classic cars might have a fabric hood, consisting of a layer of fabric treated with latex on the inside to provide waterproofing. 

 

What it means

A fabric roof is the textile soft top fitted to many convertibles and cabriolets. Instead of a solid metal panel, the car has a folding frame covered with a woven material such as canvas or mohair-style fabric. The roof usually includes the outer skin, stitched seams, a glass or plastic rear window, inner lining and a network of seals and gutters that keep the weather out when the roof is closed and allow open-air driving when it is folded away.

Why it matters

• Needs different care to paint: Fabric roofs cannot be treated like metal panels. They need specialist cleaners and proofers rather than strong TFRs, polishes or dressings meant for paint and plastics.
• Prone to algae and staining: Because the material is textured and holds moisture, it easily develops green algae, mould and general grime if not cleaned and protected regularly.
• Can leak if neglected: Dirt, moss and worn stitching or seals can allow water to creep through the fabric, seams and gutters, leading to damp interiors and water leaks.
• Big impact on how the car looks: On many convertibles the roof is a large, highly visible area. A faded, green or patchy fabric roof can make an otherwise tidy car look tired and unloved.

Where you’ll see it

You will see the term fabric roof in sales listings, inspection reports and detailing menus. Common notes include fabric roof needs clean and reproof, fabric roof green with algae or fabric roof stitching worn. Specialists may distinguish between fabric roofs and vinyl roofs, as the products and methods used to clean and protect them are different.

Context

Fabric roofs are one of the main convertible roof types, alongside vinyl soft tops and folding metal roofs. A typical fabric roof has multiple layers - an outer woven face, backing layers and often an inner lining - plus a series of stitched seams and bonded areas. Over time, UV, weather and abrasion can fade the colour, flatten the pile and weaken waterproofing. Proper care usually involves vacuuming, gentle but thorough cleaning to remove algae and traffic film, then applying a dedicated proofing product that restores water repellency and helps resist future soiling. Fabric roofs are also closely linked to water leak diagnosis, as blocked drains and tired seals around the soft top are common leak points.

Common mistakes

• Washing a fabric roof with strong TFR, household cleaners or stiff brushes, which can damage fibres, stitching and previous waterproofing treatments.
• Trying to dress a fabric roof with silicone or tyre shine products, leaving it shiny, patchy and more likely to attract dirt.
• Ignoring early signs of green algae, bird stains or water absorption until the roof is badly stained or starts leaking into the car.
• Running a powered fabric roof when it is frozen, soaking wet or obviously obstructed, risking damage to the roof material, frame or mechanism.

Written by Danny Argent. Last updated 01/12/2025 15:32