There are several things you should know before you start such a vinyl webbing replacement job.

– How wide are the present webs?
– What kind of fasteners have been used?
– Are the straps single or double wrapped?
– How long do the new straps need to be?

Let’s deal with these questions…

Width

The strap is made in 1″, 1.5″, and 2″ widths. You’ll find when you measure your old straps that they’re up to 1/4″ less than these widths, because the width reduces when they are stretched over the chair frame.

Fasteners

There are two categories of attachments: metal clips and nylon rivets. Within each there are several styles and sizes of each. You will understand which fasteners you have by comparing them with images on the internet.

There are 2 more techniques used to attach the straps onto the chair frames, that do not require the use of fasteners at all. One uses little hooks that are a part of the frame, and you just hook the holes in the ends of the straps over these. The alternative strategy comprises a slot in tubelike frames, into which the ends of the straps are placed. With this strategy of attachment, the ends of the straps are shaped into a tabbed shape to help keep them in the slots. They’re also generally double wrapped. Sadly, the “tabbed” straps are no longer available. For this case, you have three choices. You can either:

– cut tabs on the ends of the straps yourself with a heavy pair of shears, or
– use metal “C-clips” presuming your frame is roughly 3/4″ to 1″ in diameter, or
– drill a hole in the center of the slot and use plastic rivets.

Single or Double Wrapped?

If you can see the head of the plastic rivet fasteners or most of the metal clip, your straps are single wrapped. Double wrapping covers the fasteners on the second wrap round the frame.

Length

Be sure not to make the mistake of measuring one of the existing straps you’ve cut off your chair frames! There is a formula you have to use to adjust for the heating and stretching process during installation. If you get the measurement wrong, you may either not be in a position to stretch the straps onto the frames without damaging them, or possibly will wind up with loose, drooping straps. The easiest way to measure vinyl straps.

Terry Potter works at Pipefine Patio Furniture, a company that has been in the patio furniture business for over 40 years, both as a manufacturer and retailer. The company also sells replacement cushions as well as vinyl strapping. This is one of a few articles on replacing vinyl strap. Full directions for correctly measuring and installing straps can be found at the company’s website.