If you’re in a rush, go for the Gear Aid Seam Grip Seam Sealer. In my opinion, it’s one of the best tent seam sealer obtainable at the moment.
Getting a brand new tent is at all times a enjoyable expertise, however all it takes is 1 leaky seam in your tenting expertise to go downhill quick.
That’s whenever you want a tent seam sealant. These magical tubes will stop any moisture from getting in, like a burly bouncer at a membership.
Of course, selecting the correct one is less complicated stated than executed. However, at the moment I’ll present you the ropes on how to decide on the best tent seam sealer for you.
Let’s get proper into it. Here are one of the best tent seam sealers that we advocate:
Best Tent Seam Sealer: Our Top Recommendations
Gear Aid – Seam Grip Seam Sealer
Cure Time: 8 hrs | Size: 1 oz | Coverage: 12 ft | Primary Use: All Natural or Synthetic Tents & Gear
First up is without doubt one of the finest seam sealers that you’ll find.
First of all, it’s made by Gear Aid, in order that’s already an enormous plus. All of their merchandise (from boot cleaner to reflective tape) are top-notch.
What I actually like about this specific adhesive is the extent of versatility that it brings to the desk. It can bond completely to all kinds of materials, together with vinyl, canvas, polyester, and nylon.
Over the years, I’ve used it to restore numerous tenting paraphernalia. This consists of my prized Lightspeed air mattress, amongst different issues.
I’ve additionally used it to patch up numerous tents, awnings, and even tarps. Whether you’re attempting to seal a seam or simply restore a gap, it’s undoubtedly up for the job.
It dries in a single day after which types a everlasting, waterproof rubber seal that may flex together with your tent material relatively than peeling or cracking.
It’s additionally fairly cost-effective. A single tube of this adhesive will seal as much as 12 toes of seams.
Overall, it’s robust to beat this waterproof masterpiece from Gear Aid, and I’d extremely advocate you attempt it out for your self.
Pros:
- Can restore nearly any tenting merchandise
- Dries in a single day
- Comes with two applicator brushes
- Doesn’t peel or crack
- 12 toes of seam sealing per tube
- Manufactured by Gear Aid, a severely respected model
Cons:
- It is perhaps tough to use – be sure you learn the directions first, so that you don’t waste any valuable sealant
Best for: campers who need top-of-the-line waterproofing that’s appropriate for numerous supplies.
Gear Aid – Seam Grip Plus Silicone
Cure Time: 6 hrs | Size: 1.5 oz | Coverage: 24 ft | Primary Use: Silicon Tents
This sealer is one other stellar product from Gear Aid.
This silicone sealant is a little more reasonably priced than different Gear Aid sealants, despite the fact that it’s bigger in quantity. This makes it a wise choice for many who must seal a number of seams on a good funds.
This seam seal has a silicone factor added to it. This means it not solely gives a water-proof seal, but it surely’ll additionally permit your gear to stay versatile, because of its superior elasticity. And, seeing because it’s made by Gear Aid, you’ll be able to make sure that it received’t peel.
The essential distinction between this silicone sealant and different Gear Aid sealants is that this one is a bit lighter. So, it is perhaps higher for ultralight backpackers who need to avoid wasting ounces.
This silicone sealer is good to make use of on backpacks, rainwear, tarps, tents, or any shelters which are silicone-treated. I’ve used this specific seam seal on fairly a number of items of substances. I can undoubtedly affirm that it’s extremely efficient at conserving water out, even in stormy circumstances.
On high of that, this sealant will endure even the most popular warmth or the chilliest chilly.
That being stated, if you have to take away it, you are able to do so utilizing mineral spirits (extra generally known as paint thinner). This lets you take away your seam sealer so as to re-apply a contemporary coat.
Pros:
- Elastic construction
- Ideal for sealing silicone-treated objects
- Endures excessive climate
- Easily eliminated with paint thinner
- Doesn’t peel or crack
Cons:
- It solely comes with one tube, so that you may need to choose up one other one for backup
Best for: campers attempting to seal silicone-treated objects or those that desire a light-weight seal.
Coleman – Seam Sealer
Cure Time: 4 hrs | Size: 2 oz | Coverage: Unspecified | Primary Use: Tents & Gear
If you’re not a fan of utilizing chemical substances, then you definately’ll love this sealer from Coleman. It has a water-based method that makes it extra environmentally pleasant.
Coleman has a status of providing extra for much less, and that status is upheld by this seam sealer. This product gives twice as a lot sealer as most others for a similar low value.
One of one of the best issues about this Coleman seam sealer is the truth that it dries in simply 1 hour. That being stated, it is going to nonetheless be a bit sticky after an hour, so it’s finest to go away it out for one more 4 to eight hours for good measure.
I like to recommend doing all your seam sealing the night time earlier than, then leaving your tent out (open, within the storage) to dry correctly.
The draw back to this product is that it’s not ideally suited for repairing gear. It’s significantly better at waterproofing, relatively than patching up holes. You can’t actually complain, although, because you’re in search of a seam sealer, not a restore equipment.
Another tip – you should definitely learn the guide of your tent earlier than making use of the sealer, to find out whether or not you need to apply it to the surface or within the tent. Getting this data earlier than making use of the product is important, so that you don’t waste any of it.
Which jogs my memory, right here’s a listing of Coleman tents that may exceed your expectations.
Pros:
- Comes with a foam applicator pad
- Water-based
- Definitely an reasonably priced choice
- Double the amount
- Dries in an hour
- Simple utility
Cons:
- Not match for repairs
- Hard to use in moist circumstances
Best for: campers on a funds who need high-quality sealing.
Gear Aid – Fast Cure Seam Sealant
Cure Time: 2 hrs | Size: 2 oz | Coverage: 60 ft | Primary Use: Nylon Tents
You may suppose that I’m a Gear Aid shill at this level, seeing as I’ve included three of their merchandise on this listing. In actuality, it’s simply because they’re a high producer within the sealer business — so the in depth protection is nicely deserved.
While the earlier two sealers by Gear Aid that we’ve coated above are top-notch, generally you’re in a rush and wish one thing that may dry sooner. That’s the place the Fast Cure Seam Sealant is available in.
At room temperature, this sealer will remedy in round two hours. That might seem to be a very long time, however whenever you evaluate it to the drying instances of most seam sealants, you’ll notice that it’s truly tremendous speedy.
Also, observe that producers are sometimes just a little… optimistic with their claimed dry instances. With this sealant, you don’t have to fret. It’ll be dry as a desert in a number of hours.
A single bottle can seal as much as 60 toes of seams, which is completely insane when in comparison with different choices at the moment in the marketplace. If you’re attempting to seal a big (3- to 4-person) tent, then that is undoubtedly the best sealer for you.
Speaking of, I compiled a listing of one of the best 4-person tents proper right here.
Pros:
- Two-hour curing time
- Built-in applicator brush, so you’ll be able to repair your seams on the street
- 60-foot sealing capability per bottle
- Suitable for big tents
- Doesn’t peel or crack
- Manufactured by Gear Aid (my apparent favourite)
Cons:
- It is perhaps tough to use because it doesn’t have a separate applicator brush just like the others
Best for: campers who desire a seam sealer that’ll be dry in a snap.
Coghlan’s Seam Seal
Cure Time: 2 hrs | Size: 2 oz | Coverage: Unspecified | Primary Use: Synthetic Tents & Gear
Coghlan’s is understood for his or her funds tenting provides and kit. They’ve been round for a protracted, very long time.
You know the stuff your uncle was utilizing years in the past, that they nonetheless promote at the moment.
This water-based tent seam sealer is not any completely different. It will get the job executed, because it has for years.
Pros:
- Fast performing remedy in 2 hours
- Comes in a 2 oz bottle that ought to cowl a whole mid-sized tent
- Specifically made for artificial tents and kit
- Super funds pleasant
Cons:
- Doesn’t work in addition to different sealers
Best for: these on a funds
Texsport – Polyurethane Waterproof Seam Sealer
Cure Time: 24 hrs | Size: 14 oz | Coverage: Unspecified | Primary Use: Synthetic Tents & Gear
This seam sealer is a bit pricier than the opposite choices I’ve coated on this listing. That being stated, it does have some distinctive advantages.
Applying this seam sealant to your tent offers it a polyurethane coating, which is what a water-proof tent has when it comes out of the manufacturing facility.
The essential benefit of utilizing Texsport’s sealer is the truth that it’s each colorless and odorless (as soon as it dries), so it’s prefer it isn’t even there.
The subtlety of this product appeals to campers who need to use a seam sealer on their gear with out ruining the aesthetic. This sealer additionally retains your gear protected from filth, the solar, and water, making it as versatile as it’s inconspicuous.
It’s additionally washable and versatile, which means that you are able to do no matter you need together with your gear with out having to fret about any cracking or peeling.
Sadly, there’s no such factor as an ideal seam sealer. This sealer requires two coats, and every layer takes 24 hours to dry.
Obviously, campers who’re engaged on a good schedule will want the Gear Aid Fast Cure, which cures in 2 hours relatively than 2 days. But, when you’ve got the time and desire a tight seal, then Texsport is unquestionably a wonderful alternative.
Pros:
- Spray-on utility
- Colorless and odorless when dry
- Protects from filth, solar, and water
- Washable
- Flexible
- Doesn’t peel or crack
Cons:
- Pricier than some
- Takes two days to remedy
Best for: campers in search of a high-end choice who’re prepared to attend two days for the curing course of.
Choosing The Right Tent Seam Sealer
There are fairly a number of issues that you have to contemplate when deciding on a tent seam sealer.
I do know that it may be overwhelming to select one whereas drowning in all of the variables, especially for inexperienced persons.
So, I wrote this information that will help you out.
Fabric
The very first thing to contemplate when choosing out a seam sealer is what materials your tent is made out of.
For most – akin to nylon and polyester – you’ll be capable to use any of the merchandise listed right here with none hassle.
If it’s made out of a –, then you need to go for a based mostly , just like the Gear Aid Silnet .
If it’s made out of Cuben Fiber — generally known as Dyneema — then you almost certainly received’t must seal it in any respect.
If you could have a canvas tent, you’ll want to make use of a product particularly designed for canvas.
This is why researching the fabric of your tent is manufactured from is essential earlier than you spend your hard-earned cash on a tent sealer.
Some tent producers have examined their materials and know which sealant works finest. Check your instruction guide to see if there are any suggestions.
Thickness
The thickness and viscosity of a sealer will fluctuate from one product to the following. Different ranges of thickness can have their very own units of professionals and cons, so you need to select fastidiously based mostly in your wants.
Thick sealers are usually tougher to use, however they’re extra environment friendly at coating seams.
Likewise, skinny sealers are extra handy to use, however you’ll find yourself losing some product if it runs.
It’s price noting that the thickness of a sealer isn’t fastened. If your sealer is simply too thick, then simply skinny it out utilizing mineral spirits, and also you’re good to go.
Application
This is perhaps self-explanatory, however because the title suggests, seam sealer ought to solely be utilized to the seams on a tent – or, in some instances, to an space the place the tent has been broken.
To get a water-proof coating in your whole tent, you’ll need to use a tent waterproofing spray together with a seam sealer.
There are alternative ways to use a seam sealer, however most of it comes all the way down to choice.
The most typical kind is called paint-on — which is exactly what it appears like.
Spray cans are additionally obtainable and are usually faster however might waste extra product.
Some sealers (such because the Coleman) include a foam applicator pad, which might make it an entire lot simpler to use the whole lot to the seams evenly.
Make certain you apply the evenly on ALL the seams, together with these on the and .
Quantity
You also needs to pay attention to how a lot quantity you’ll want by measuring the scale of your tent.
If you’re gonna be tenting in a small tent, then a single tube ought to be greater than sufficient to seal all of the seams.
Obviously, a bigger tent would require extra product.
Check to see what number of toes of seams the seam sealer you choose will cowl, and use this data to find out what number of tubes, cans or bottles you’ll want in your tent.
Price
Of course, as with every tenting gear, you need to think about the associated fee whenever you’re choosing out a particular product. You don’t need to spend a ton of cash on sealant, however you additionally don’t need to go for a low-quality product that’ll crack and peel as soon as it’s dry.
Buying on-line tends to be cheaper than going for brick-and-mortar outlets, since on-line outlets have much less overhead. Just make sure that you at all times put product high quality above value to get one of the best outcomes.
FAQs
Does tent seam sealer work?
Yes they do, and when utilized proper, they’ll final for years if not many years!
Maintaining your tent with even just a bit tent seam sealer in leaky spots can shore up your tent and hold rain and condensation out.
Do you set seam sealer on the within or outdoors of a tent?
For finest outcomes, you need to apply tent seam sealer on the inside of the tent. You’ll need to apply on to the stitching the place you’ll be able to plug the needle holes to forestall any leaking.
Of course, you’ll be able to at all times apply seam sealer to the surface as nicely, however begin with the within first.
How do you apply seam sealer to a tent?
Start by establishing your tent within the storage or your yard, then clear your tent and let it dry. Finally, apply your seam sealer to the within of your tent or the surface wherever the seams are most prevalent. Let the seam sealer remedy for two to 24 hours relying on the sealer’s directions.
What is tent seam sealer manufactured from?
Tent seam sealers are created from a wide range of completely different type epoxies every designed for distinctive functions. There are water-based, silicone-based, and urethane seam sealers.
How lengthy does it take for tent seam sealer to dry?
Tent seam sealers take anyplace from 2 hours to 24 hours to remedy.
How do I do know what tent seam sealer to make use of for my tent?
Some tent producers have examined their materials and know which sealant works finest. Check your instruction guide to see if there are any suggestions.
Our Verdict
I hope that this information has made it simpler so that you can make an knowledgeable determination on which tent seam sealant matches your wants finest.
All of the choices we’ve given you’re top-notch. However, in order for you my professional opinion, I’d need to advocate that you simply go for the Seam Grip Seam Sealer from Gear Aid. The versatility and degree of waterproofing that this sealer gives are simply leaps and bounds forward of some other product.
Sure, it received’t dry as quick as a few of the different choices on this listing, however perfection is price ready for.
The versatile nature of the sealer ensures that it’s going to roll with the punches relatively than cracking on the first signal of movement.
It bonds to nylon, polyester, canvas, and vinyl, to call a number of supplies, so that you received’t have to fret about compatibility when utilizing this seam sealer.
All of this makes it the you’ll find in the marketplace at the moment.
Just pay attention to the truth that one tube is appropriate for 12 toes, so in case your tent is relatively massive, then chances are you’ll need to purchase two or extra.
Happy tenting!