When it comes to waterproofing your tent, we recommend to do this at the end of the camping season.

So, when you get your tent out the next year, its ready to protect you from unwanted showers! Nobody likes camping in the rain, especially when you get wet, follow our handy tips below on how to waterproof your tent!

 

Waterproofing Products 

We stock a number of proofing options; Fenwix, Nikwax, Fabsil and Kampa. We recommend Fabsil, we love it here at Attwoolls and it gets the job done perfectly! It’s brilliant for all types of tents, and not only does it work wonders for waterproofing your tent, you can also use it for tent maintenance. 

You can purchase our recommended waterproofing solution from the camping superstore., find out more here. 

 

 

 

 

How to Waterproof your Tent

What you will need:

  • Your Tent
  • Your chosen waterproofing solution
  • Large brush
  • Tin or Bucket
  • Cloth if applicable 
  • Spray bottle if applicable 
  • Gloves to protect your hands

Step 1

Firstly, make sure you have the tent erected, so that everything is in place and sitting where it will sit to allow the treatment process to dry in place. Its best to do this on a dry day, so your tent fabric has time to proof. 

 

There are two methods to waterproofing fabric:

Method One - Paint the solution on with a brush, this will take longer but mains you can focus on seams and areas of issue

Method Two - Decant solution into a spray bottle and spray your tent all over then wipe the surface with a cloth

 

Step 2

Once you have chosen your waterproofing method, you will simply need to brush or spray onto the fabric ensuring you reach all areas of the fabric. Pay close attention to any seems, where leaking is likely. 

Waterproofing Tips

If your tent is polyester then the waterproofing solution will create a film onto of the fabric, whereas with canvas tents it will take longer to work into the fabric and you may need to do the process twice. 

 

How to Waterproof your Tent Seams

When proofing the seams of your tent, we recommend to purchase a seam sealer. You can do this process internally and externally. Its best to use a spray when applying it internally. Seam sealer has a glue consistently, so make sure you use gloves!

Apply the seam sealer directly over the top of the seam with a brush, until it has a smooth, clear finish. Ensure there is good ventilation and you take breaks as the smell can be quite poignant!

When not to Waterproof your Tent

If your tent fabric is starting to feel thin, stitching is coming apart and the tape sealing is coming off, then its time to invest in a new tent. Over waterproofing can do more damage than good, so at the end of the camping season, check your tent and decide whether it will last your for a few more trips or you need a new one!