Tyvek for groundsheet

G

grant4353

Joined
Aug 15, 2003
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Anyone here use tyvek for a groundcloth? I think I might get one but I read they aren't water proof, so maybe not. BTW I just got in the mail my rucksack I ordered frome major surplus, the swiss waterproof one, it is very sturdy I just need to get some pads for the straps.
Jonathan
 
Tyvek is highly water repellant but not waterproof. However, under a tent with a waterproof bottom, it provides good mechanical protection.
 
Frogg Toggs makes backpacking rain gear out of tyvek. They probably add a treatment to it. Try spraying it or washing it with DWR and give it some tests.

Phil
 
Tyvek feels like and has the slickness of those cheap poly tarps - the blue ones. It would make pretty noisy garments, and I can't imagine any water repellant sticking to it. On the other paw, the holes are said to be so small that it is highly water repellant as is. Put it under you, and the pressure of your body forces the water through the holes - not waterproof.
 
They do a sort of stone washing (or similar) to soften up the fibers. Seems almost like a super thin denim. They're a bit quieter IMHO, than standard nylon rain gear.

Phil
 
Tyvek in the form like you find on the siding of houses being built, they are stiff, however you can throw it in a front load washer and that will soften it. I have not tried top loader washer but this is highly discouraged by many people, I blieve it will get tangled into center colomn, better to take to the coin laundromat.
Martin
 
I've used Tyvek for a few years without problems. It's held up well for rain (at least 3 rainstorms while camping that I can remember), is nice and tough, and light and compact. I bought it from someone on eBay who sells by the foot and will pre-wash it (as others have mentioned here to soften it up a bit) for a little extra.
 
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