Weather is one of the most unpredictable characteristics of nature. This is the biggest enemy of every group in doing an outdoor activity, it can start as a sunny and warm camp and end up into a miserable and rainy affair. To solve this issue, one of the top features of tents is protecting you from the sun and keeping the rain out.
Even the topnotch quality camping tents will deteriorate over time and slowly lose their ability to keep water out. It is also important to remember that new tents may need to be tested for their ability to keep rain and moisture away. Some tents may not be 100% waterproof when you get them, so it will be up to you to make sure that it’s ready for camping before you bring them out.
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Why Do You Need to Waterproof a Tent?
Tents are supposed to be watertight when you purchase them. But others may be of poor quality and only claim to be water-resistant. Most of the time, these low-grade tents are not waterproofed and air moisture will quickly seep in. They certainly cannot provide enough protection when the rain starts pouring. Consider using various methods to waterproof your tent. Just one method or treatment will not a hundred percent make it a waterproof shelter, but it will upgrade its water-resistance.
Showing your tents a little love and care will be worth the time and energy.
Avoid Sun damage
Destructive UV rays can damage your skin and it can also cause permanent harm to tent materials that endure long exposure to the sun. It can ruin your tent’s flysheet in a couple of weeks during a summer camp, diminishing its effectiveness to hold up to heavy rainfall. The best way to increase your tent’s life is to protect it from sun damage.
Wear and Tear
Materials that are continually damaged by the elements, blanketed in dust and dirt, can start to dry out because of the sun. The dirt and climate cause rainwater to be absorbed into the fabric, making it less efficient against wind and rain. Using tent waterproofing methods can help extend the life of tent materials and keeps water from leaking through the fabric material.
Prevent Seams from Damage
Time and repeated use will also affect the durability of the tent seams. Some tents come with sealed joints when you first purchase them. However, the seals or ties can crumble down over some time, creating cracks or holes at the seams. Attaching a suture sealant will resolve the problem.
How to Waterproof a Tent
There are camp enthusiasts who routinely waterproof their tents after every use. Others start tent waterproofing once they experience a leak; and that is a bad idea. It is recommended to do these before the camping season begins.
Three ways to waterproof your tent:
Sealing the Tent Seams
Water enters through the tent seams. It is the area where two materials are stitched together to keep water from seeping into the tent. When choosing a sealant, you need to consider the materials in your tent. Is it made of fabric? Is it made of polyester or canvas? After this, remove the seal sections that are peeling off, clean it with a damp cloth and rubbing alcohol. Leave it until it is completely dry.
Once dry, seal the seams by using a seam sealer. Make sure that you apply tapes on all areas including the reverse side to hold the seams together. This can help you keep the moisture from seeping through.
Refreshing the Urethane Coating
The largest portion of your tent is the fabric. It should always be clean and secure for you during your outdoor activities. If you notice that the fabric is flaking off, you need to apply urethane coating. Use rubbing alcohol and a sponge to peel off the flaking coating. Make sure you follow the directions on the sealant bottle to achieve the desired results. Remember to focus on applying a thin coating of sealant on the whole tent floor. You need to let it dry for 24 hours or more.
Additionally, avoid exposing your tent to flame retardant chemicals to lessen the possibility of harm and damage.
Refreshing the DWR on a Tent
Durable water repellent is also known as DWR. The coating refreshes and restores your rainfly. You only need to set up your tent and spray clean water; you do not need to wait for it to dry. You can directly and evenly apply the waterproof spray to the exterior of your rainfly. Wait for several minutes and then use a damp cloth to remove the excess coating. This process prohibits water from seeping inside the tent. The coating helps the rainfly repel water and ensures that you are safe and dry inside your tent at all times.
Things to Remember
- The majority of camping tents come in different forms. Because of its unique quality, you need to consider the structure, the design, and the zips. Being proactive and thinking ahead before going on a camping trip is one of the great characteristics of a camper. Being prepared regardless of the weather is a big advantage.
- It’s good to keep the waterproofing materials or products handy. Once you have found your preferred brand, keep them in stock so you always have something to use in case you need a quick touch-up. As always, being prepared for any eventuality will work to your advantage.
- Maintenance is essential to your tent. Cleaning your tent after you come home not only extends its life and durability, but also its ability to keep water out. Wipe down your tent and fold it properly after use instead of just shoving it inside the bag. This will keep the seams intact and minimize the chances of tears and holes.
- You also need to consider the place you store your tent, you should not put it in front of a heat source, it can cause fire and serious damage. Make sure that you dry it and air out your tent to minimize the foul smell and prevent molds from forming.
Waterproofing your tent may seem like an arduous task, but it will prolong your tent’s life by many years. You also need to take into account the detergents and cleaners that you are going to use. One wrong decision can cause irreparable damage. This is why it’s worth doing the above-mentioned processes. Your efforts will conserve your precious cents and keep you from chucking your tent in the bin earlier than necessary.
Hopefully, these tips about tent waterproofing will make you excited about your next camping adventure. This can also help you become a more eco-friendly camper in the future.