Outdoor Basecamp: How to Patch a Hole in Your Tent

How to Patch a Hole in Your Tent
================================================================================
jason on 21/02/2010 08:55:00
 
One of the worst things an outdoor enthusiast can find when setting up the tent
for the first time of the season, is a tear or hole. The only thing less
desirable is to discover the hole after a long, cold, rainy night spent tossing
and turning in the woods. Wet bedding and clothing can make for a miserable
camping experience, so campers should be prepared when setting out for a weekend
submersed in the elements.
The truth of the matter, is that it happens to even the most experienced
outdoorsmen (and women). The difference between the experienced and the
unexperienced, is who comes prepared. The best way to be prepared is by creating
a repair kit to store with the camping gear, keeping it stocked at all times.
While it may take a little bit of preparation and shopping, it will pay off in
the event of an unforseen rip in the side of a tent.
When purchasing a tent, buyers should tackle the repair kit right away. Most
likely, all of the needed supplies can be found at the same store at which the
tent was purchased. Consumers should talk to a knowledgeable sales specialist to
examine the type of tent being purchased, and what items should be included in
the hole repair kit. Having the wrong materials certainly won't help in a sticky
situation. Canvas tents will require different patch material than nylon tents,
so shoppers should take special care in ensuring that they are purchasing the
correct repair tape and sealer. When camping, the repair items can be stored in
a water proof container to ensure they stay protected from the elements.
Even if a hole or tear is discovered post purchase, happy campers can remain so
by making a trip to their local outdoor supply store, and often even a hardware
store, to purchase everything needed to repair the offending tent.
The following should be included in any tent repair kit:
Sharp scissors
Sturdy sewing tool such as an awl, but a needle will work as well
Thread
Seam sealer and repair tape, both designed for the material needing repair
(nylon or canvas)
Paper towel or any absorbant towel to dry the area prior to applying the repair
tape and sealer
The repair tape should be cut to extend at least an inch or two beyond the
boundary of the rip, and then coated with the seam sealer. For extra hold, savvy
campers should apply the repair tape on both sides of the material to create a
stronger bond. Using the awl, or even a needle and thread, the repair tape can
be sewn into place. Taking a little extra time with the sewing part of the
repair will pay off in the long run. Stitches should be relatively close and
tight to really strengthen the hold.
If hunters or campers are caught in the rain when a hole is discovered, it
would be wise to at minimum, move the tent to some tree cover. If none is
available, a tarp can be used to block the rain. The patching materials as well
as the tent should be kept dry before a repair is attempted. Tip: In a pinch,
duct tape would do relatively the same job as the formal patch, but only on a
temporary basis.
Tents should be coated with water proofing spray once completely patched, clean
and dry, to keep leaks to a minimum.
With a little imagination, repair tape can be used to provide a quick solution
to rips in screens and zipper lining, as well as tarps. While these may not be
the most attractive fixes, they can keep campers and hunters dry until a more
permanent solution can be applied. Paper towel, or another absorbant material,
should be kept in the kit to make preparation of a dry repair site a little
easier.
The number one rule for anyone who will be spending time in the wilderness, be
it hunting or camping, is to create a checklist of essentials and always go
through the camping gear prior to heading out into the woods. A prepared camper
will make for a happy camper, no matter what mother nature decides to throw
their way.