I’m going to assume You likely own, or you’re in the research phase to own a Canvas Tent in the near future? If so, I understand your questioning if it will leak, and/or if you will be able to waterproof your tent if it’s not Leak proof?
Many people on the internet are making claims that their said to be waterproof canvas tents, Are not waterproof?? Well after digging into the reasoning as to why they are making these claims I have come to one large conclusion! Many of those who have posted videos or written articles on the topic failed to take their tent through the process of “Seasoning” Their tent.
We will go over what “Seasoning” a tent does, and how it is done below.
Canvas Tents can get quite pricey. And of course, the last thing you want from a brand new tent is a leaky roof and wet gear… So I thought I’d answer some of the questions I had before purchasing my canvas tent. along with what questions others have as well. And in the process lay to rest some of these claims others have been making about their canvas tents.
If you have recently purchased, or in the researching phase of purchasing a canvas tent. Great, I hope you get some value from this! It was written for you!
Quick disclaimer: Most canvas tents are waterproof, but need to be prepared before use. Be sure to follow the manufacturers waterproofing procedures in order to properly and accurately waterproof your tent. By following the manufacturers’ instructions, you will lessen the risk of voiding any warranties the manufacturer may be providing.
Do Canvas Tents Leak?
This will depend upon the manufacturer of the tent. As well as what has been done to waterproof the tent prior to it leaving the manufacturing facility. However, most canvas tents will leak If not treated before use. In order to make a waterproof canvas tent leak proof, you will need to take the tent through the “Seasoning” process. Otherwise, known as the waterproofing process.
Once you have gone through the seasoning process with your tent it should be able to withstand heavy rain. That is if your tent is rated for that. Not all tents are made the same. Because of this. Stating whether or not your tent will or will not leak after you’ve gone through the waterproofing procedures is hard to say.
However, there is one tent I trust and truly believe it is the best of canvas tents in my opinion. That is the Kodiak Canvas Flex-Bow. This tent is the one I personally use, and I absolutely love it. Same with most other purchasers of this tent. Check out the Kodiak HERE If you’d like.
Onward we go.
Why Do Canvas Tents Leak?
In the manufacturing process of a canvas tent, The fibers and Seams of the canvas are tightly woven together. This causes little micro pin holes throughout the tent. These micro pinholes are often large enough that they allow water to seep through the fabric of the tent.
In order to plug these micro pin holes, you must make the fabric swell then shrink. To accomplish this you must get the fabric wet, then let dry. This is otherwise known as the process of “Seasoning” a tent. The process as stated above.
Most canvas tents do not come waterproof out of the box. Well, they do, but there are steps that need to be taken in order to properly waterproof your tent. These steps and procedures must be taken before the first use of the tent.
If you don’t “Season” your tent before use, you could end up with the interior of the tent wet, or even soaked…
Can You Waterproof A Canvas Tent?
Yes, It’s quite simple. There are a few different ways to waterproof a canvas tent. Depending upon the manufacturer of the tent and their waterproofing instructions. You likely will be guided to take your tent through the “seasoning” process or use a Silicone based waterproofing solutions.
Be sure to check your user manual for waterproofing procedures. it’s likely they will recommend you to “Season” The Tent. Which is the procedure listed below. But be sure to follow your manufacturers’ instructions so you don’t void any warranty you may have on the tent.
How To Waterproof A Canvas Tent?
To waterproof a canvas tent, you will simply take your tent through the “seasoning” process. This consists of soaking the canvas with water in order to get it to expand, plugging any little micro pin holes. Then simply let it dry COMPLETELY. As it dries the fibers will shrink. This will interlock the fibers and provide you with a waterproof barrier.
Before following any of the steps below, be sure to check the waterproofing instructions provided to you by the manufacturer of your tent. Different manufacturers may have different steps in place for “Seasoning” / Waterproofing your tent.
How To Season A Tent:
Typically this will be done just after you have purchased your new canvas tent. But Must be done before the first use of the tent. I’d recommend, soon after you have received your new tent you begin the process of seasoning it.
Otherwise, you may end up wet if a rainstorm blows in.
The seasoning process is much simpler then it sounds. and likely won’t cost you anything, but sometimes. If you have yet to put your tent through the seasoning process (Waterproofing process). In order to waterproof a canvas tent, you must soak the tent completely with water, and let dry completely.
Steps to Season A Canvas Tent:
- Set up your new canvas tent completely.
- Be sure your tent is square and standing up straight.
- Begin to soak the tent with water Completely!
- Once soaked completely, Let the canvas dry COMPLETELY
- Once Completely dry, the tent should be waterproofed
- Go ahead and test it. If not Repeat steps 1 – 5 once more
“Note: Do not use a pressure washer, or any forceful spraying methods when sooking your tent. Simply try to replicate rainfall. Another great way to sook the tent is by simply setting up the tent before a good rainstorm. Also, you must let your tent dry out COMPLETELY! If you put the tent away even slightly wet, you run the risk of mold growth on your new tent. Not to mention, the tent wasn’t properly waterproofed.
For those who are visual learners. Check out this video done by “The Camping Guru” He does a good job explaining the process.
What Does The “Seasoning” Process Do?
When you season a tent, the canvas fibers expand as they soak up the water. Once expanded, and left out to dry for a period of time. The fibers will begin to shrink and inner lock one another, tightening up any loose areas in the stitching.
Take a sponge for example: When you get a sponge wet it fills with water and expands. As it sits out drying, it begins to shrink down, until its about half the size it was when wet.
The same sort of concept “Kinda” but when the fibers in the tent shrink down it will tighten one another together forming a waterproof barrier in most cases. Now, if the “Seasoning” Procedure doesn’t work for certain areas of your tent. Try it once or twice more.
What to do if your tent still leaks
If after multiple “Seasoning” Procedures you are still getting leakage. Check the manufacturers’ instructions, if no other procedures are listed. Contact the manufacturer and see what they have to say.
They may replace the tent, or have you spray a silicone based waterproofing such as Kiwi Camp Dry. But Be Sure to check with your manufacturer before this procedure. you don’t want to be voiding your warranty.
Some silicone-based waterproofing solutions may not bond well with your canvas tent. Different Manufacturers use different technology when designing Their specific tent. So be sure you use a product that is okayed / Recommended by the manufacturer of your tent.
Conclusion:
Waterproofing a canvas tent is actually quite simple, and easy to do. Just make sure you set the tent up properly and let it sit out to dry completely. One big problem people have with canvas tents, and most tents, in general, is Mold…
Mold will rote and destroy your canvas tent. And in most cases will void any warranties you may have on the tent. Just make sure you do not put your tent away wet!
I hope this was helpful and answered some of the questions you may have had on the topic of leaking canvas tents. If you’d like, go ahead and leave a question, or comment below. I’d be happy to hear from you.
If you’re looking to purchase a canvas tent for yourself and your family, I definitely recommend it! The experiences I’ve had with mine and the experiences others have had are quite impressive! Just be sure to do your research like you are doing now!
Happy Camping!
