To duct tape or not to duct tape...

October 22, 2008 2:30 PM

I have this tent. The rainfly according to the box is polyester and the plastic window for the solar panel is PVC and the seams where the two materials join are 'taped'. (They are also stitched, whatever.) This seal between the two materials is leaking. Given the type of materials how do I patch this leak? (I have sprayed all interior seams with Silicone tent spray as instructed).
posted by who else to Sports, Hobbies, & Recreation (8 answers total)

When all else fails, break out the duct tape...
posted by foodgeek at 2:37 PM on October 22, 2008

Best answer: Get some seam sealer. It's kida like glue but it just goes on the seams to, well, seal them. Like this.
posted by GuyZero at 2:50 PM on October 22, 2008 [1 favorite]

Also, don't use spray. Use the goopy stuff. Since you linked to Canadian Tire, you should be able to buy this stuff at MEC.
posted by GuyZero at 2:51 PM on October 22, 2008

After searching, Canadian Tire has seam sealer too.
posted by GuyZero at 2:52 PM on October 22, 2008

Response by poster: Apparently there is seam seal tape as well as liquid. It seems like the tape might be better as I could be more sure that the seal worked, but if it started to peel with time and I wanted to take it off to apply fresh tape I don't know if that would tear the rainfly...
posted by who else at 4:24 PM on October 22, 2008

No, the liquid is much better in terms of the quality of the seal. It's a lot more work than spray or tape, which is why people use those. But if you want a waterproof seam, the liquid gets into the needle holes and penetrates the fabric. And it cures to something that bonds much, much better than any tape out there.
posted by GuyZero at 5:12 PM on October 22, 2008

GuyZero is right, the goo works a lot better than the tape. It will also never come off your clothes, and is difficult to get off your hands. Use it, but wear old clothes that you don't care about and have somebody ready with some naptha or other recommended cleaners (read the package) before you start. It's really hard to open the door to go inside and then unscrew the cap of the cleaner, if you've already got goo all over your hands, which you probably will. Good luck!
posted by vytae at 5:43 PM on October 22, 2008

I can personally vouch for the Seam Grip GuyZero linked to. I've used it to patch/seal a tent, my backpack, and stuff sacks. It's much, much better than the spray. Dab some on the seam and use a small brush (or your finger) to spread out a light coat. I apply it liberally. It looks messy, but it absolutely works.
posted by spikeleemajortomdickandharryconnickjrmints at 5:50 PM on October 22, 2008