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Post by hikerjer on Nov 25, 2016 21:23:36 GMT -8
A number of my waterproof pieces of gear, gore-tex and otherwise, are starting to wet out and not repel moisture very well. What products do use and notwithstanding product directions, how do you apply it? Any helpful hints or tricks would be appreciated. Finally, does it actually work in restoring waterproofness?
Thanks.
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tigger
Trail Wise!
Posts: 2,547 
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Post by tigger on Nov 25, 2016 23:05:40 GMT -8
I'm sure you are probably aware as I've said it a gazillion times over the years but I'll throw it out there because it works - I use Kiwi Campdry heavyduty. I wash my clothing in mild detergent and then apply the DWR. I put it in the dryer. I was told it penetrates better. It does seem to work very well. I will often put a second light spray on the surface also because I believe in overkill. It has worked spectacular for me. I've had some layers last close to 20 years so far and still repel like new still after treatment.
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Deleted
Deleted Member
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Post by Deleted on Nov 26, 2016 8:08:28 GMT -8
On a recent backpack, I noticed my tent's rainfly was wetting out, and the seam leaking through in a couple places.
After I got back, I used Nikwax Tent and Gear Solarproof Waterproofing Spray on my two old tents; one about 15 years old (a Sierra Designs Clip Flashlight), the other about 30 years old (a North Face Westwind). I washed the rain flies off, spread them out on my driveway, applied the spray, wiped it into the fabric with a rag, and hung them over my porch railing to dry. This is essentially the steps that the directions called for.
I also applied Gear Aid Seam Grip to both of them. The newer tent's rainfly had taped seams, but the tape was separating from the seams in a few spots. I used the seam grip compound to reattach the tape to the body of the fly. The 30 year old one had actually never had sealed seams. I had a small amount of the compound left in the tube, which I used on the seam in the hood of an old rain poncho.
The verdict is still out on how well this treatment worked; I haven't been on a trip since applying this treatment. I'm very interested in the replies to your thread myself, as much of my backpacking clothing and gear is 20-30 years old.
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tigger
Trail Wise!
Posts: 2,547
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Post by tigger on Nov 26, 2016 8:35:28 GMT -8
The newer tent's rainfly had taped seams, but the tape was separating from the seams in a few spots. I used the seam grip compound to reattach the tape to the body of the fly. The 30 year old one had actually never had sealed seams. On one of my older tents, I had similar issues. I started to reattach the seamtape with seamgrip, but decided to just pull it all off as cleanly as I could and applied fresh seamtape. It's going on year three since then and performing admirably. |
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Post by zipposdad on Nov 26, 2016 11:54:31 GMT -8
hikerjer. Go to goretex site. They have / had a great explanation of their product and how to care for it. Things like using a hot dryer and keeping the fabric clean as to not clog pores. Lots of great info...
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Post by hikerjer on Nov 26, 2016 12:51:31 GMT -8
hikerjer. Go to goretex site. I will. Thanks |
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Post by dayhiker on Nov 26, 2016 14:42:56 GMT -8
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Post by stefanw on Nov 27, 2016 15:07:40 GMT -8
I'm going to have to start doing some of this, as my jacket is almost completely NOT waterproof anymore. Washing has completely destroyed any waterproofing. I guess that's what happens when you buy something cheap.
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Post by hikerjer on Nov 27, 2016 20:15:17 GMT -8
I guess that's what happens when you buy something cheap. Even top of the line gear eventually will lose most of its water proofness through time and use. Thus the suggested remedies. |
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