Message Forums

Quote: Originally posted by ChrisBCC on 19/7/2015

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I have been wondering whether to stick my nose into this one but I think I should.

Of course second hand tents are less likely to leak as they have been weathered, brand new ones will leak 90% of the time as they have not been. This can vary how much it does depending on the type of stitch, thread used and obviously the weather is has been in. They will not shrink/expand sealing up the canvas until it has been wet and dried out, so if it is continually wet and it is leaking it will not get better at that point in time. It may take a good soaking a drying 2-3 times before the process is completed.

Stitching leaking is very common and expected, if there is a leak through un-perforated (i.e. not stitched) canvas this is potentially a problem but it is very unlikely with a new tent.

Also to point out I have seen customer error with this, as I say the canvas needs to shrink to close up the canvas and the stitching holes. If tent has been tensioned out to its furthest point when the canvas shrinks, it will get tighter and tighter on the frame so the stitching holes are then pulled on making them bigger allowing water through.

I really wouldn't advise any seam sealer, it really shouldn't need it on canvas. Weathering yourself with a hose is fine but remember it needs to penetrate into the canvas and stitching, so 20-30min each time is a must really.

Hoping not to get burned at the stake for any of that.

Regards
Chris

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