Spuncrylic Vs. Sunbrella: Which Outdoor Fabric Is Better?

Outdoor fabrics like Spuncrylic and Sunbrella are popular choices for patio furniture, boat covers, and outdoor shade structures. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which fabric is right for your needs?

This comprehensive guide compares Spuncrylic and Sunbrella head-to-head, looking at performance, durability, maintenance, cost, and more.

A Brief Comparison Table

Feature	Spuncrylic	Sunbrella
Material	Acrylic	Acrylic
UV Resistance	Good	Excellent
Mold/Mildew Resistance	Moderate	Excellent
Stain Resistance	Moderate	Excellent
Water Resistance	Good	Excellent
Breathability	Moderate	Good
Durability	3-5 years	5-7+ years
Care	Spot clean, air dry	Spot clean, air dry
Price	$$	$$$
Warranty	1-2 years	5-10 years

Overview of Spuncrylic

Spuncrylic is a budget-friendly outdoor fabric made from 100% acrylic fibers. It offers the following features and benefits:

• Good UV resistance: Spuncrylic is solution-dyed, meaning UV inhibitors are added during production to reduce fading. It has a typical UV resistance of 500 hours.
• Water repellant: The fabric’s acrylic composition gives it good water resistance. Spuncrylic will repel light rain and moisture.
• Mold and mildew resistant: Spuncrylic has inherent properties that make it naturally resistant to mold and mildew growth. However, it’s not as effective as Sunbrella.
• Soft hand feel: Spuncrylic has a soft, cotton-like feel compared to other outdoor acrylic fabrics. This makes it comfortable for cushions and clothing.
• Variety of colors: It’s available in a wide range of solid colors and patterns. However, colors may fade faster than Sunbrella.
• Affordable price point: Spuncrylic is very competitively priced against solution-dyed acrylics. It provides decent performance at a budget-friendly cost.
• Easy to clean: Spuncrylic can be spot cleaned with mild soap and water. It should be air dried to avoid shrinking.

Overall, Spuncrylic is a good option if you want an inexpensive outdoor fabric with basic water and UV resistance. Just expect that it won’t last as long or look as vibrant over time as a premium acrylic like Sunbrella.

Overview of Sunbrella

Sunbrella is considered the gold standard for outdoor performance fabrics. Here are its notable qualities:

• Superior UV resistance: Sunbrella fabric is guaranteed to retain its color and strength for 5+ years. Some colors offer a 10 year warranty against fading.
• Repels water, stains, and mildew: Sunbrella is highly water repellant and quick drying. It’s also resistant to oil- and water-based stains, along with mold and mildew growth.
• High strength and durability: Sunbrella is woven tight and designed to withstand sun, wind, and rain exposure over long periods. It can last 5-7+ years with proper care.
• Breathable: Sunbrella allows air flow through the fabric weave while still providing weather resistance. This prevents condensation buildup.
• Easy to clean: Sunbrella can be cleaned at home with mild soap and water using a soft brush. It doesn’t require chemical treatments.
• Wide range of styles and colors: Sunbrella offers hundreds of solid colors, patterns, textures, and canvas-like styles. There are many choices for outdoor furniture and décor.
• Long warranty: Sunbrella stands behind their fabric with an industry-leading 5-10 year limited warranty. This gives peace of mind that it will retain its beauty season after season.

While Sunbrella costs more upfront, its unmatched durability and performance make it worthwhile for those who want the very best outdoor fabric.

Also Read: Comaparison Between KÜHL and fjallraven

Key Differences Between Spuncrylic and Sunbrella

Spuncrylic and Sunbrella share some similarities, but also have important differences:

• UV Resistance:

Spuncrylic offers decent UV resistance, with the ability to withstand approximately 500 hours of direct sunlight exposure. However, it’s important to note that colors may eventually fade and the fabric can degrade when subjected to prolonged sunlight.

Sunbrella, on the other hand, provides superior fade resistance. This is backed by a robust 5+ year warranty, and certain colors even come with a 10-year warranty against excessive fading. If you plan to use your outdoor fabrics in a sunny location, Sunbrella’s UV resistance is a significant advantage.

• Water and Stain Resistance:

Spuncrylic has some water repellency but can absorb moisture over time, especially in heavy rain or high humidity. Additionally, it is susceptible to oil- and water-based stains, which may set into the fabric and be challenging to remove.

Sunbrella excels in water resistance. It is highly water-repellent, quick-drying, and resistant to both oil- and water-based stains. When liquids come into contact with Sunbrella fabric, they tend to bead up, making it easier to blot them away. This characteristic is particularly valuable for outdoor applications where exposure to moisture is common.

• Mold and Mildew Resistance:

While Spuncrylic has some inherent resistance to mold and mildew, it is not entirely immune. In humid climates or if not adequately maintained, Spuncrylic fabrics may still develop discoloration and show signs of degradation over time.

Sunbrella is engineered to inhibit the growth of mold and mildew, even in hot and humid conditions. This feature is especially important for outdoor fabrics, as it helps prevent the unsightly development of black spots, ensuring that your furnishings remain fresh and clean.

• Durability:

With proper care, Spuncrylic can last for approximately 3 to 5 years outdoors before showing signs of wear and deterioration. While it offers reasonable durability, it may not be the best choice for long-term outdoor applications.

Sunbrella is renowned for its durability. Its tighter weave and robust construction are designed to withstand years of exposure to sun, wind, and rain. With the right maintenance, Sunbrella fabrics can easily last 5 to 7+ years, making them a top choice for outdoor settings where longevity is crucial.

Also Read: Comaparison Between Quince and Parachute

• Warranty:

Typically, Spuncrylic fabrics come with a 1 to 2-year limited warranty against defects in workmanship. While this provides some level of assurance, it doesn’t match the extended warranty offered by Sunbrella.

Sunbrella stands out with its industry-leading 5 to 10-year limited warranty. This warranty demonstrates the manufacturer’s confidence in the fabric’s longevity and performance. It’s a significant advantage for those seeking long-lasting outdoor fabric solutions.

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• Price:

One of the most attractive aspects of Spuncrylic is its affordability. On average, Spuncrylic fabrics cost between $10 and $20 per yard, making them a budget-friendly option for outdoor projects.

Superior performance often comes with a higher price tag. Sunbrella fabrics typically start at around $25 to $40 per yard. While they may be more expensive upfront, their durability and longevity can make them a cost-effective choice in the long run.

• Breathability:

Spuncrylic allows some airflow, but it can also trap moisture against the fabric, especially in humid conditions. This trapped moisture can create an environment conducive to mildew growth, which is something to consider in particularly damp climates.

Sunbrella is engineered with an open-weave structure that maximizes breathability and air circulation. This design helps prevent the accumulation of moisture, reducing the risk of mildew formation. It’s an important feature for outdoor fabrics, as it contributes to their overall comfort and maintenance.

Sunbrella outperforms Spuncrylic across the board when it comes to durability, weather resistance, breathability and warranty protection. But Spuncrylic offers decent performance at a budget-friendly price point.

Also Read: Comparison Between Portland Leather And Madewell.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Also Read: Comparison Between Bed Threads and Parachute

Final Thoughts

When choosing between Spuncrylic and Sunbrella, consider your budget, timeframe, and performance needs. For short-term decorative outdoor projects, Spuncrylic offers good value.

But for furniture, shade structures, and applications requiring durability over many years, Sunbrella is worth the additional investment. Pay a little more now, and you’ll be rewarded with outstanding, vibrant performance season after season.