How To Reproof A Tent

Most modern tent flysheets are made with a Polyurethane (PU) coating to make the fabric waterproof while a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish on the face fabric encourages water to bead and roll off.

Things like abrasion, exposure to UV, wind and rain will cause this DWR finish to deteriorate eventually and the flysheet fabric will begin to retain moisture.

Once the flysheet becomes saturated it drastically reduces the breathability of the tent causing moisture to build up on the inside of the flysheet as well as the inner tent. In addition to this, the moisture from the flysheet will transfer to the inner tent when the two come into contact through a process called capillary action.

By reproofing your tent you are replenishing the Durable Water Repellent finish on the flysheet so that water can bead and roll-off again.

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You Will Need:

• Reproofing agent such as Grangers Fabsil
• Clean paintbrush
• Clean cloth
• Clean tent

Step 1: Ensure your flysheet is clean

Pitch your tent and ensure your flysheet is clean. See our How To Clean A Tent guide if you are at all unsure. 

Step 2: Prepare your reproofing solution

Decant the reproofing agent into a clean plastic container that you can easily dip your brush into. Do take the time to read the information provided on the bottle.

Step 3: Apply the solution

Using a paintbrush, apply the solution to the fabric evenly. Work methodically, painting each section of the tent at a time to ensure total coverage of the flysheet. 

Step 4: Rub treated fabric

Once the solution is applied rub the treated fabric with a clean cloth and wipe away any drips or pools of excess fluid.

Step 5: Leave to dry

Allow the tent to dry completely before packing away.

Cleaning and reproofing your tent is something that should be done fairly regularly to help prolong the life and performance of your tent.

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