Frequently Asked Questions
Can I purchase Outdura® directly from Shuford Mills?Your marina, outdoor furniture retailer or designer is your source for Outdura fabrics. These experts can show you the full array of colors, textures and designs. And they can advise you on the best choice for your needs and applications. Shuford Mills will be glad to provide you with the names of dealers who can assist you in your selection and purchase. Please call 866-OUTDURA or email to info@outdura.com for the dealer nearest you.
Is Outdura® waterproof?
Outdura® is not waterproof, but it is water-repellent. Over time, normal wear, usage and cleaning will reduce the effectiveness of the water-repellent finish that we apply during manufacture. So, if water-repellency becomes an issue after repeated normal use and cleaning, a specialty product may be used to retreat your Outdura fabric. Water-repellency treatments are available for purchase at most awning- and marine-supply stores. If you need a waterproof fabric, you might want to consider our Outdura Trio®, which is both waterproof and breathable.
Does Shuford Mills make a fabric that is waterproof?
Yes, our Outdura Trio® is waterproof, and it has all the positive attributes of our other Outdura® fabrics. In fact, Trio is the only outdoor fabric that is both waterproof and breathable.
Does Outdura® provide me with UPF-rated sun protection?
Yes, with Outdura® you are protected in excess of UPF 50. This means you can stay outside in the sun 50 times longer without burning than if you had no protection at all. The UV Protection Factor (UPF) for Outdura is 50+, which is as high as the rating goes and more than three times as high as the minimum recommended by cancer groups.
Will Outdura® fabrics mildew?
If kept clean, Outdura® fabrics will not mildew. Unlike natural fibers, the characteristics of acrylic fibers will not support the growth of mildew. However, mildew can and will grow on any surface that is dirty, so we recommend keeping your Outdura® fabric clean.
How often should Outdura® fabric be cleaned?
Outdura® fabric should be cleaned regularly to prevent excessive dirt from accumulating. Simply brush off any loose dirt and rinse with lukewarm water. To clean, use a solution of lukewarm water (not exceeding 100°F) and a mild natural soap such as Lux™ or Ivory™. Rinse thoroughly to remove excess soap.
Do you sell boat covers, Bimini tops, awnings, cushions and umbrellas? How about outdoor or indoor furniture?
No, we do not, but we can provide you with sources that do use Outdura® in the manufacture of these products and that have access to our fabrics as well. As there are many manufacturers of these types of products, neither Outdura or Shuford Mills recommends one over the other, and we do not warrant the work of any of these providers.
Why does Outdura® not fade in the bright sun?
We use a special yarn made from solution-dyed acrylic in which the pigment is added while the fiber still is in solution. With this method, the color permeates the fiber so it can't rub off or wash away. Stabilizers are also added in the same way to minimize the effects of the sun, to help the fabric maintain strength over time, and to inhibit rot.
How can Outdura® have such a soft, luxurious feel and still be a high-performance, UV-resistant, stain-resistant fabric?
We use ring-spun, two-ply yarns in the weaving of Outdura. This is the same method of spinning yarn that is used in fine apparel and high-quality home and bedding products. The solution-dyed acrylic provides the performance while our high-quality manufacturing practices provide the feel.
Can I become a distributor of Outdura®?
Yes. We still have a few areas of the country where local distribution is available. Please write to us on your company letterhead, sending the letter to Jeff Jimison, Shuford Mills LLC, 447 Main Street, Hudson, N.C. 28638. Provide us with your company name, your Web site and your specific interest in our product line.
Don't all solution-dyed fabrics do what Outdura® does?
Absolutely not, so make sure you purchase 100 percent solution-dyed Outdura® acrylic fabrics. There are other fabrics on the market today that are made from synthetic, solution-dyed fibers that have different names and make similar claims. If they are not solution-dyed acrylic, they will not perform, last or retain color as well as a solution-dyed acrylic. Quality manufacturers and retailers of outdoor furniture and marine products know the difference. Ask them.
Is Outdura® made in the United States?
Absolutely. We weave Outdura® in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. Here, manufacturing and the craftsman's attitude toward what is made and sold have a strong tradition and history that continues in our people today.
