Camper Trailer Australia - April 2018

LETS TALK WATER PROOFING
If your canvas does start to develop leaks after
it’s been seasoned correctly, you can apply a
water proofing solution to the material as part
of your ongoing maintenance regime. There is a
whole array of products specifically formulated
to form a waterproof barrier. Before you get
stuck right into it, test out the product on a little
patch of canvas in an inconspicuous location to
ensure it doesn’t discolour the canvas. Then, use
a paint brush or roller to apply a nice and even
layer to the fabric, and let it completely dry.
To finish the job off, use a seam sealant like a
wax candle or spray-on formula to seal up the
stitching on the seams and zippers. How often
should you do this? Let’s say once a year. It costs
bugger-all and sure beats a leaking tent in the
middle of a down-pour!

THE ANNUAL WASH

Once every year or so, it’s a good idea to hose

the canvas down to remove any dirt or dust

before it lodges into the fabric permanently.

Think of it as the spring cleaning session!

While you’re at it, keep a close eye out for any

aggressive stains, which will eventually begin to

break down the canvas fibres and cause long

term damage if left untreated. Acidic substances

like bird droppings and organic matter like

eucalyptus leaves/nuts will stick to canvas like

chewing gum in chest hair, so it’s absolutely

essential to remove these contaminants before

they make themselves at home. A soft brush

with a bit of water will get the job done for the

looser stuff, and for the hardier stains you can

use a tooth brush with a bit of warm water to

gently scrub away at it. To avoid damaging the

fabric or the waterproofing agent applied from

factory, don’t be tempted to use soap, detergent

or solvents, or you’ll have to re-apply water-

proofer to the whole lot!

Before applying any chemical to your canvas, test it

in an inconspicuous location to check for reactions or

staining

Never let organic matter like soil, seeds of

bird droppings settle into the canvas

It’s usually the stitching around the seams that requires water

proofing, and a wax stick is the perfect tool for the job

If your tent is starting to leak, it may be time to re-season the canvas

and apply a water proofing solution