Important Jargon:

These are terms, that may arise throughout the blog.

Polyurethane Coating (PU)

All tents usually have a PU coating to make the tent waterproof.

Durable Water Repellant (DWR)

As well as the PU coating, there is also a DWR finish applied to the tent fabric, which makes the water bubble on the surface of the tent, and also, allows the water to run off the tent fabric. You also see this DWR on a waterproof jacket.

Reproofing a Tent or Awning:

There will come a time with any tent, where it may need to be reproofed, to increase or top up the waterproof layer on the tent, to prevent water leaking into the tent. It is important to understand each type of tent fabric needs treating differently. This blog more relevant to re-coating a polyester tent. Check out our related article if you own a cotton or polycotton tent - as treatment advice differs for each fabric.

• How to weatherproof a polycotton tent

When too Reproof a Polyester Tent?

After some time using your tent, you may notice, the water no longer bubbles or runs off the fabric, but sinks into the fabric itself. This is usually a sign, that DWR coating is beginning to fail, may need to be re-applied. The perfect time to reproof a tent is in Spring, at the start of the camping season.

• Ideally a tent should be reproofed every 12-24 months, depending on the amount of usage the product gets. If it is used up to three weeks per year, every 24 months should suffice.

How to Waterproof a Tent?

Recommended Product:

• Fabsil Gold Waterproofing
• Outwell Seam Sealant
• Plastic Bowl
• Paint Brush

1. Purchase a waterproofing agent, and some seam sealant.
2. Wait for a clear, dry warm day. 
3. Pitch the tent in an outdoor setting so there is plenty of ventilation.
4. Spray or paint the waterproofing agent to the outside of the tent. (Use Fabsil Gold or Nikwax Tent Proofer - to reproof the outside of the tent.)
5. Use a clean cloth to ensure any drips or excess waterproofing is wiped away.
6. Allow to dry.

How to Apply Seam Sealant

1. Tent must be dry.
2. Apply any seam sealant to the internal seams, if any require it.
3. Pack tent away once dry.

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