Homemade waterproofing spray for a tent , 3 Simple Methods

You devote a great deal of your free time to making your camping trip the best it can be. However, what if you woke up “soaked in the water” because your tent was not waterproof after a rainstorm the night before? It’d be nothing short of a nightmare. When it comes to homemade waterproofing spray for a tent, we’ll go through the specifics with you right here in this post.

So, how can you waterproof your tent? DWR Sprays or Silicone water repellent sprays can be used to waterproof your tent. Wax coating can be applied on top if desired. Traditional methods of waterproofing a tent include using a rainfly, tarps, or PU coated sheets. However, you can use homemade waterproofing spray for a tent.

Table of Contents

What parts of my tent need to be protected from the elements?

The base fabric, seams, and zippers of tents are the most vulnerable to water infiltration. They may work for the flaps and walls, but they don’t work for zippers and seams.You can use homemade waterproofing spray for a tent to combat this problem.

Sealants for seams

As the pores between each thread connect two tent panels, seams are more vulnerable to water leakage. To make a tent waterproof, the seams must be completely sealed with a homemade waterproofing spray for a tent.

Waterproofing your tent’s most vulnerable spots has never been easier than using silicone-based seam sealants. They’re long-lasting, simple to use, and will keep your tent dry for a longer time.

Zipper

When it comes to wet weather, the worst zippers are those that are of poor quality. In addition to getting stuck, these zippers can let water leak inside the tent. If you’re buying a tent, it’s a good idea to inspect the zippers.

Polyurethane Coated Zippers: The VIVOSUN zipper is the most popular and recommended PU coated zipper. Zippers are protected against corrosion and degeneration by a polyurethane coating.

How come homemade waterproofing spray for a tent is so popular?

When you don’t have the time to travel to the local store and buy waterproofing spray or other treatments, you may choose to use a homemade waterproofing spray for a tent. If you’re stuck in the middle of nowhere, you may have to make do with the supplies you have at home.

The best waterproofing options might be quite pricey. Also, they’re dangerous. As long as you don’t mind spending money to protect your camping gear, you can use one of the three methods outlined in this tutorial.

Homemade waterproofing solutions: What are the best ones?

It is possible to waterproof just about every tent with homemade waterproofing spray for a tent consisting of mineral spirits and clear silicon. For natural fibres, you can use wax or a liquid solution of beeswax and rosin to protect them from the elements.

Method1: Homemade silicone waterproofing

What you need:

A container containing mineral elements
A lidded container of plastic
Clear Silicone caulk
A painting brush

Procedure

You’ll need a bottle of mineral spirits for this one (also known as white spirit or mineral turpentine). The transparent liquid you use as a solvent when the painting is this liquid solution. If your paint, lacquer, or varnish is excessively thick and difficult to apply, this liquid can help.
After that, you’ll need a plastic container with a lid. Using a small plastic bucket or something similar, you may mix all of the components if you don’t already have one. Fill your plastic container halfway with paint thinner.
Clear silicone caulking is the final component. Take a small number of mineral spirits and mix in the silicone. Keep swirling until the silicone is entirely dissolved in the two components.
Shake the solution vigorously for about 10 minutes if you have a container with a lid. The solution must be perfectly blended.
Apply your homemade waterproofing solution with an ordinary paintbrush to the items you want to keep dry. A little waterproofing solution should be applied.
Allow your goods to dry overnight. After applying the mineral spirits and silicone coat, you should wait anywhere from 24 to 48 hours before applying another layer.

Method 2: Using Candle wax

Alternative homemade waterproofing methods include utilising candle wax and paraffin. It is possible to waterproof natural fibres such as cotton with this procedure as opposed to method 1.

What you’ll need is:

A candle
A hairdryer

Procedure

Using a hairdryer to gently warm the wax from a candle, rub the wax all over any items you want to waterproof. The wax can also be applied by heating the surface of the object first and then rubbing the wax on. The wax will be easier to apply once it has been warmed up. Make sure the edges are well-coated.

As soon as the wax coat has been applied, use a hairdryer to dry it for at least 10 minutes. After allowing the wax to dry for 5 to 7 hours, you’re ready to use your new tool.

NOTES OF IMPORTANCE

Don’t overlap the wax strokes. You can even it out with your fingertips. Reheat the wax if it becomes too cold or sticky to apply.

The colour of the fabric may change over time as a result of this procedure. Waxing can cause a change in the colour of the skin.

Method 3: Use linseed oil

Another natural waterproofing approach is included in this guide’s third way, much like solution number two.

What you’ll need is:

Oil extracted from linseed
Beeswax
Rosin

Procedure:

You must use equal amounts of beeswax and rosin in your project. In this case, 2 cups of linseed oil, 2 oz. of beeswax (60 ml), and 2 oz. of rosin would be added to the mixture (60 ml). When using 4 cups of linseed oil, be sure to also use 4 oz of beeswax and 4 oz of rosin in addition to the previously mentioned amounts.

You’ll need to melt the beeswax and rosin together in a double boiler to make this combination. Check to see that the two compounds are thoroughly combined. To combine the beeswax and rosin, either heat them in an oven set to 250 degrees (for best results) or do so directly over a gas stove. There is a lot more stirring involved if you use the second method.

Separately, heat the linseed oil. 5 minutes of vigorous stirring after combining the two solutions. The initial coat of waterproofing can be applied to the items when the solution has cooled. Apply two or three coats for the finest results.

On a Camping Trip, How Do You Handle a Leaking Tent?

Earlier, we discussed techniques to make homemade waterproofing spray for a tent. What if our tent begins to leak while we’re already in route to the campsite? Let’s talk about ways to avoid making the journey.

Use any nylon sheet (tarp, for example).

If your tent doesn’t have a rain fly, you’ll need to bring your own. Use an A-shaped tarp or nylon sheet to cover your tent and secure it in place.

Hydrophobic: Nylon isn’t water-resistant, yet it can withstand water to some level despite its hydrophobic properties As the water rolls down, you’ll finally get a dry tent out of the A-shape.

The day will be saved by Gorilla tape

This may sound like a joke, yet it works like a charm. From the inside, just use some gorilla or duct tape to cover up the holes. Gorilla tape can also be used to cover seams and zippers to keep water out.

Don’t allow water to accumulate on top.

When it rains, flat surfaces are your worst enemy. Leakage might occur if water builds up in one spot. There will be a lot of dripping once the water pressure builds up. Make sure your tent and the group sheet are elevated so that water may flow out of the tent when it falls from the top.

How to prepare homemade waterproofing for clothes?

Instruments and supplies

Saucepan
In a metal mixing bowl
The wax is 4 oz.
4 ounces of beeswax pellets
A spoon for stirring
Paintbrushes, single-use, 1″

Step 1:

By filling a pot with water and putting it on the heat, you’ll be creating a double boiler that may be used to melt the waxes. Ideally, the metal bowl should be small enough to fit inside the pan, but large enough so that its bottom doesn’t contact the water. The wax in the bowl will melt faster if the pan and bowl space are separated.

Step 2:

To begin, fill the metal bowl with 4 ounces of beeswax pellets (found in the candle-making area of an arts and crafts store). To melt the chunks, combine the pellets with the 4-ounce bar of paraffin wax and stir until combined. The item you want to waterproof should be placed in a dryer (if possible) while the waxes are liquefied. An easier application process will be a result of this.

Step 3:

Apply a thick layer of molten wax to the fabric using a one-inch paint brush after stirring until all lumps of wax have melted. (The best results can be achieved with a cheap brush with firm bristles.) Once you’ve covered the full space, move on to the next little section.

Step 4:

To melt the wax into the cloth, use a hairdryer on high or a heat gun on low to melt the wax into the fabric. Let it cool for a little.

The wax-coated piece can be placed in an old pillowcase and dried for 15 minutes if the item is smaller, such as a pair of canvas shoes or a square of the chair seat fabric. This, too, will aid in the melting of the wax.

Step 5:

When the object has had time to cool, look for any blemishes. Reheat the cloth after applying a second coat, if necessary.

Step 6:

It’s recommended that you wait at least 24 hours before using the item. A strong scent from the wax can be alleviated by allowing the item to air out over the next few days, or by placing it in the freezer overnight for speedier effects. The material should be odourless, waterproof, and ready for use when you recover it.

How to perform Homemade canvas waterproofing?

Simple to prepare, this canvas waterproofing formula keeps for years when stored in an airtight container. It’s up to you how you want to apply your canvas waterproofing mixture: warm and paint-like or more like a paste.

Materials

8 ounces of Turpentine (200ml)
Boiled linseed, 8 oz each (200ml)
Beeswax, half-pound (250g)
Canvas: To protect your clothing or other items from the rain

Tools

Using a repurposed pot or cup of coffee can
A much larger container
A stirring implement
A paintbrush (it will get ruined)

Instructions

Place the beeswax bits in your old pot.
Place the larger pot of water over a medium heat source.
The coffee can or old pot/bowl should float in the water, so add it to the container. Add the container. Beeswax will melt as the water boils, reducing the risk of it catching fire.
Slowly add the linseed oil to the melted beeswax and reheat until the wax melts again.
Stir in the turps thoroughly.
Stack several layers of newspaper on top of your canvas kitchen apron.
Use the brush to massage the liquid mixture into the fabric once it has been painted on.
You may just reheat the mixture if it begins to stiffen.
Allow at least 24 hours for the odour to evaporate after hanging the garment in a well-ventilated area.

Can you waterproof a non-waterproof jacket?

Now you know how you can make homemade waterproofing spray for a tent. You can learn about waterproofing a jacket.

Wash and Waterproof

Water is drawn to the surface of a well-worn jacket or coat by dirt and oils that accumulate over time. Your jacket may “wet out” if the DWR treatment is broken down by this. Pre-washing and cleaning jackets with a gentle, specialist detergent are essential before applying a waterproof coating. To waterproof your clothes, simply choose the most convenient solution and method for you to use once they have been cleaned.

Spray-On

Wait for the clothing to dry before applying Nikwax Direct Spray-On Waterproofing. Spray repels water, oil, and dirt for the longest with this formula. Use it on GORE-TEX, nylon, and down outerwear and gloves, and it’ll do the trick.

Use a cleaner to clean the jacket as directed in the above section on how to wash it.
Shake the can of spray well.
In a well-ventilated environment, spray 5″-10″ from the jacket.
The shoulders and cuffs, in particular, benefit further om liberal application.
Before putting your clothes in the dryer, be sure to read the care instructions that came with your machine. For best results, dry on medium heat for 30 minutes.

Can the interior of a tent be made waterproof?

Panel by panel, work your way around the tent with your reproofer to get complete coverage. Using a spray, brush, or sponge, evenly distribute the tent proofing product or waterproofing spray on the tent fabric. As you work, be sure to wipe away any excess product with a wet towel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is the best way to keep wood dry in a rainy climate?

Answer: Waterproofing your wood can be done in a variety of ways. When it comes to applying a protective hand-rubbed finish, linseed or Tung oil are excellent choices.

Polyurethane, varnish, or lacquer are good options for protecting wood. Using a stain-sealant combination, you can protect wood while also providing a finish.

Question: Is waterproofing necessary for modern tents?

Answer: Even though most of today’s modern tents are well-equipped for providing a waterproof shelter, you must maintain the waterproofing if you want your tent to remain effective. Waterproofing your tent every few years is a good rule of thumb.

Question: Is Seam tape helpful in preventing water from penetrating my tent?

Answer: Sealing the seams of your tent might help prevent water from getting in. Sealers are applied to tent seams to prevent moisture from penetrating and weakening them.

However, seam tape is not a long-term solution. It can decompose over time. Keep an eye on the condition of your tent and replace any areas where this has been applied. It’s important to remember that heat will speed up the breakdown of seam tape and lead it to become brittle more quickly.

Question: What’s the Difference Between Waterproofing and Water Repellency?

Answer: Tents that claim to be water-repellent are in fact, porous and vulnerable to water droplets, so water will eventually find its way into the fabric.

A tent’s natural weaving and pores are blocked by chemical coatings on waterproof fabric, which makes it difficult for water to seep in. Tents made of waterproof material are impervious to water and air.

Conclusion about homemade waterproofing spray for a tent

Homemade waterproofing spray for a tent and other waterproofing solutions are available. Make your silicone-based waterproofing solution by combining mineral spirits and silicone caulk. Candle wax or linseed oil can be used if you choose a less hazardous approach to waterproof your camping tent.