How do I waterproof material for a tent

K

Kevin the grey

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Aug 26, 2005
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I can get parachute material at a good price . Is there an inexpensive way to waterproof it ? I want to make a Tipi style tent and canvas or its equivalent is way too expensive .
 
You don't want a waterproof tent because if the water can't get in, then air and vapor can't circulate. Like an umbrella, it's supposed to guide the rain away from the sleeping area without actually sealing you off from air. If you need total water exclusion, you can try stringing up a waterproof tarp over the tent. Canopy material is, in my opinion, too light to keep out water the way that well made tent material would, so your best bet is to find some other use for the material and buy a tent. Even the pricey ones can be bought for a little money if you can wait around for a good sale.
 
I would Scotch Guard it. They are making some good stuff that is also mildew resistant. Scotch Guard also won't add any significant weight to the material.
 
Well I have two answers . Parachute material I am told would be unsuitable .
Are there any differing opinions ? The only thing I can say about its being too thin is that I could double it up . It would be well supported in a Tipi style structure . I wouldn,t want it billowing in the wind . As for not wanting it waterproof . I must still have some kind of water resistance ? Is there another material available better suited that would be cheaper than canvas ?
 
Kevin,
it's not unsuitable, it's less than suitable.
I would do so if I'm in a survival situation and canopy material was all I had, but if you're gonna pack the tent around, a purpose made tent is much cheaper and must more suitable.

Make the tent before you waterproof it, and see if it is suitable for you. Remember to let it stand while you get some average wind and weather conditions. If you're satisfied, then waterproof it with scotchguard.

Keep us posted... I think we would all be interested in the results.
 
This is a long term project especially in hunting season and old man winter coming on . A tipi is not a simple tent to make or one to pack around . It is for a semi-permanent camp . A dozen or so 15 foot poles will fill anyones pack ! ! L:O:L

I have buddies with tipis , mongolian yurts and assorted prospectors tents . The yurt is absolutely fantastic . Its no lightweight either .

The tipi is an interesting affair and because of its design, moisture is less of a real issue . I used to camp at a center for traditional and primitive skills and you could rent one for six bucks a night .

I,m working on a lighter weight design including the poles . They are customarily made from lodgepole pine . I have a source for them but I have an idea for a lighter weight alternative .

As I will be modifying a design that has been around for centuries if not millenia I must take care not to overstep bounds that aboriginals have learned the hard way to accept out of necessity .

Necessity is the Mother of invention in all senses of the word .
 
One of the best products for waterproofing tents is Nikwax Gear and Tent waterproffing. I comes as a pump spray, but is kinda expensive, especially if you have lots of material. A cheaper alternative, which I have found to be pretty good is made by Escort. It comes in a paint can and is applied with a paint brush. You can buy it at Canadian Tire. In my experience, Scotchguard isn't that great for heavy duty waterproofing.

Will
 
Go to the local paint store and get fabric drop cloths for cheap. Good material for Tipi's. There are several products that can be painted on to waterproof. Thompsons makes a fabric treatment I think. THere are also tent treatments that you fill a bucket and soak the fabric in. But If you are talking longterm tent then Parachute material would be too thin to hold up for long.

Badge54
 
Badge 54 that sounds like a good idea . I have buddies who paint for a living so finding good quality ones shouldn,t be a problem . You think they will make a durable tipi ?
 
My wife and I used to compete in Traditional archery, BK (Before Kids). at that time we were camping several weekends a month. I was researching building a Tipi. I ruled out the Tipi for the number of poles it takes to put up and move and was going to build a single pole tent similar to a Tipi. Most guys suggested the use of the painters drop cloths. I have seen several made of the this material and they looked good.

take a look at Pyramid tents
Badge54
 
Thanks Badge54 , I checked out the site and it was interesting . Youv,e given me some good ideas . You,ve actually changed my idea from theoretical to feasible .Thanks to you and the other guys . I,ll be getting my supplies together and trying this come spring . I guess I can do sewing in the house so maybe I can do some work this winter .
 
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