What Can I Use to Form a Waterproof Flexible Cover?

Depending upon the precise intended application, you can use a variety of materials to create a waterproof flexible cover. One of the least expensive is low-density polythene, a waxy, flexible plastic that typically has a life span of 3 to 5 years.

Polyethylene Bitumen

In building construction, polyethylene bitumen and pitch polymer sheets are often used to create damp-proof courses that are flexible and impervious to moisture. Joints between the sheets should be overlapped by a minimum of 4 inches and sealed with an appropriate adhesive.

Oilskin

Oilskin is cotton or linen saturated with linseed oil to make it waterproof. It was traditionally used for flexible, waterproof covering for cargo but has been largely replaced by fabrics coated with synthetic material.

Oiled Silk

Oiled silk is composed of thin, silk fabric saturated with linseed oil and heated to form a waterproof, highly pliable polymer. Coated fabrics have superseded oiled silk as a waterproof cover material.

References

• "Materials Handbook"; George Stuart Brady, George S. Brady et al.; 2002
• "The Repair and Maintenance of Houses"; Ian Alexander Melville et al.; 1997
• "Water Gardener"; Anthony Archer-Wills; 2000