Thread: Is it worth it or possible to waterproof a nylon tent?

yes

Originally Posted by p38arover

See My propensity for buying faulty goods continues.

Is it worth trying to waterproof this tent or should I just turf it and buy another?

No, turf it and don't buy another one (of those).

I'd thought you'd learned from your many experiences by now Ron.

My 30 second Oztent is now at least 15 years old and as good as new. My walking tent is 35 years old and last year was used on a long walk in Tassie.

Buying cheap (I hope it was) and nasty is very bad for your wallet, your comfort and the environment.

Worth trying a spray on water proofing product first, e.g.

Nikwax Tent & Gear SolarProof 500ml UV Blocker Spray For Synthetic Waterproofing | eBay

It's hard to know if it's worth trying a commercial product. They are very expensive considering the quantity supplied. I saw a thread on another forum of using Selleys window silicone sealer (non-acetic cure) thinned with turps and brushed or sprayed on. That is relatively inexpensive to make for a large quantity.

Originally Posted by p38arover

It's hard to know if it's worth trying a commercial product. They are very expensive considering the quantity supplied. I saw a thread on another forum of using Selleys window silicone sealer (non-acetic cure) thinned with turps and brushed or sprayed on. That is relatively inexpensive to make for a large quantity.

I'm pretty sure turps will not thin silicon. If you're really keen, try a sample first.
This stuff will fix your tent. It's not cheap, but it is very good. I've done jackets, jumpers, goretex boots and tents with it.
Don.

Originally Posted by Don 130

I'm pretty sure turps will not thin silicon.

This thread says otherwise: Bushwalk Australia • View topic - REPROOFING A TENT (FLY )

This item suggests mineral spirits (whatever that is): Easy Waterproof Clothing, and About Anything Else in Your World.

EDIT: it seems mineral spirits (USA) is mineral turps (AUS) but I'm not sure. The UN numbers are different as is the CAS.

Originally Posted by wikipedia

White spirit (UK) or mineral spirits (US, Canada), also known as mineral turpentine (AU/NZ), turpentine substitute, petroleum spirits, solvent naphtha (petroleum), Varsol, Stoddard solvent, or, generically, "paint thinner", is a petroleum-derived clear liquid used as a common organic solvent in painting and decorating.

The way water got into the tent, I need to waterproof the fly (large!) and the tent sidewalls. I'm not sure a single Nikwax will do it.

I saw another item saying Thompsons Water Seal will also work and it's relatively cheap as it's for sealing timber and masonry.