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Seam Sealing.

I am about to purchase a new shelter for this years TGOC, and it requires seam sealing. I have never needed to do this on previous shelters/tents, which means I am a 'newby' to this procedure. I have searched the infernal net for suggestions, until I realised there would be some challengers out there that have already experienced this event. Any suggestions on how to carry out this procedure, without making too many Fox's Pus's would be gratefully accepted!

Re: Seam Sealing.

Hi Brian

My approach is to take the tube of gunky seam sealant, squeeze some into a jar then dilute with white spirit (bit more white spirit than seam sealant). I then spread the tent out on the lawn in the garden and paint on the seam sealant with a small paintbrush. This isn't possible if you don't dilute it. I let it dry for a couple of hours (make sure you pick a dry day) then hang it up overnight.

I then repeat the process the next dry day so that the seams have 2 coats. So far, I've never had any problems with leaky seams. (I redo the sealing each spring)

Ian

Re: Seam Sealing.

My guide http://sectionhiker.com/how-to-seam-seal-a-tent-or-tarp-by-martin-rye/

Re: Seam Sealing.

Thanks Martin, all information is useful.

Re: Seam Sealing.

I'm sure you have all the advice you need.
I use seam seal mixed approx 2 or 3 to 1 with white spirit.
Best done on a warm day.
I also seam seal the apex of the tent with a bit extra. Mine supports a pole here and I use a 1 to 1 mix here.
This also helps in stopping it slip.

I use an old style stiff craft brush, about a cm wide.
Brush it in well and give it time to dry.

You have 2 choices of white spirit.
Normal stuff, I uses

Or you can go to a craft shop and pay about 3 times as much for odourless stuff.

Always seam seal with the tent under normal tension, so it sinks into the stitching.

Another tip, is to use McNett zip lubricant on the zips.

Re: Seam Sealing.

Hi Andrew, thank for the info on seam sealing. It doesn't appear to be too daunting a task. Just have to wait for a warm, dry day!

kind regards,
Brian!

Re: Seam Sealing.

No probs Brian..
See you somewhere in may hopefully

Re: Seam Sealing.

Hello Ian, Thanks for the advice. I hope we get a warm, dry day before May.

kind regards,
BrianW

Re: Seam Sealing.

...I use a kitchen sponge (approx 1cm wide) rather than a brush to apply the diluted silicon because I find it gives a more consistent finish and neat straight border either side of the seam (I love orderly straight lines down my seams) :) ...