THREAD… Not all are created equally! Use PTFE!

The most common boat upholstery failure, without exception, is the degradation of the sewing thread, more simply, THREAD ROT. The sun is brutal, especially so on thread and vinyl. Beautiful seats can let loose their threads far before the vinyl needs replacing. Boat manufacturers save costs by using THINNER threads made from polyester in their upholstery. Long-term, daily sun exposure to destructive UV rays and heat will quickly weaken these thin threads. The first to go is the top-stitch, then the vinyl seams separate after that. The foam becomes exposed and water soaks right into the foam. Exposed foam to sunlight quickly causes it to flake away. A big reupholstery mess…

The solution is PTFE thread, often called “Lifetime Thread.” It is almost impervious to UV rays and sun rot. They also don’t wick or stain easily. The most common brand of PTFE is Tenara / Goretex thread. Salty Tailor encourages PTFE thread upgrade and we use Tenara and Solarfix PTFE thread.

Why is PTFE thread an upgrade? Because PTFE is a very expensive thread. Standard polyester thread on a 16oz. spool costs on average $45. For an 8oz. spool of Tenara thread it cost $130. HUGE difference in cost! $16.25 per ounce for Tenara, compared to $2.81 per ounce for polyester thread. Is it worth it? YES…

Learn more about Tenara Goretex PTFE thread <HERE>.

Non-wicking -v- wicking