Unless you are a hardcore Survivorman outdoor enthusiast, some form of shelter is essential in remote areas. Camping in the rain (or snow, hail, or swarms of locusts) is never fun, which is why having the best waterproof tent is essential for anyone planning to spend serious time outdoors. However, although most tents are highly waterproof, the truth is that no tent is absolutely waterproof. However, by taking a few simple steps to better waterproof your tent, you can greatly increase the odds. That's it.
Seams (where two pieces of fabric are stitched together) are where moisture is most likely to invade your tent or rain flies. Fortunately, most modern tents, especially the best camping tents, have already sealed seams. However, this sealant will wear out over time, especially for cheap tents, it may not be the best quality sealant in the factory. The solution is to use an aftermarket joint sealant. Fortunately, they are cheap and can be purchased from any major outdoor retailer.
Be sure to start with the sealant that fits your tent. The most common type of tent fabric is polyurethane coating, which requires a sealant, while silicone fabric uses another. In either case, the process of applying or reapplying the joint sealant is the same. First find a bright, open work area to unfold your tent and check every seam. For used tents, clean the joints with rubbing alcohol and a rag. Then spray or brush the joint sealant evenly on each joint of the tent and umbrella. Let the sealant cure overnight and your tent should become more waterproof before the next camping.
Most tents are coated with a protective coating to waterproof and increase durability. Over time and repeated use, this coating will decompose. It is easy to know when the coating needs to be renewed because you will notice areas peeling off the tent or rainproof material. Refreshing it is as simple as resealing the seams of the tent. First spread the injured fabric part in a well-lit open area in the house or garage. Use an abrasive sponge and rubbing alcohol to wipe off the peeled material from the fabric. Apply a thin, even layer of fresh tent sealant to the newly scrubbed area. If the tent has been used for more than a few years, please consider painting and hanging the entire tent floor. Let it dry for at least 24 hours before the next adventure.
Rain flies are usually your first line of defense in wet weather. Properly coated flies force the water to bead on the surface and slide off like mercury. If this is not the case with your tent, it may be time to update the DWR (durable water repellent) coating on your umbrella. The process is very simple. Set up a tent and tie up rain flies. Wash the flies gently (if you have just cleaned the tent, even better). When it is still damp, spray the entire rain fly with a new bottle of DWR coating. Wipe off the excess with a cloth or sponge. The best sprays provide UV and water resistance, which can easily double the life of the tent fabric. Bonus: Spray is usually also suitable for hiking backpacks and hiking boots.
Of course, having the right tent is one thing. The more important thing is to know how to set up a tent at night.
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